A new look at the first stage designs for the transformation of Tate Liverpool have been revealed.
The gallery plans to reveal new panoramic views of the River Mersey, and a new exhibition space on the ground floor level to exhibit work that can be seen from the dockside.
The design, by 6a architects, also shows a new public ‘Art Hall’ and events space on the ground floor.
The design is hoped to reveal more of the former Victorian warehouse through its new open plan ground floor and uncovering windows, highlighting the heritage of the 180-year-old dockside building.
The new gallery spaces over three floors will be interspersed with public riverside foyers,
and larger contemporary works, which were previously impossible to display, will be accommodated by new double-height galleries.
New services will replace fossil fuel with renewables, and natural ventilation is to be introduced to the building to help with energy performance.
Tate Liverpool announces temporary closure dates ahead of gallery redevelopment
Helen Legg, Director, Tate Liverpool, said the design would allow it to “engage new audiences and to reduce the gallery’s impact on the environment.
“Through this once-in-a-generation renewal of Tate Liverpool we will become an art museum fit for the 21st century, serving the needs of artists and audiences, now and into the future while continuing to play our part in the ongoing evolution of the historic waterfront.”
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer MP said the transformation will “bring the history of Liverpool’s iconic Albert Dock into the heart of the museum and I’m delighted we have been able to support this project.”
Funding for the £29.7 million project has come from UK Government, including £10m from the Levelling Up Fund as part of a successful combined £20m bid with National Museums Liverpool and £6.6m from DCMS estates maintenance fund.
The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority awarded funding for the developmental phase of the project via its Strategic Investment Fund.
While the building is closed, Tate Liverpool will continue to host events and one-off projects in collaboration with other spaces in the city.
