National Portrait Gallery Design Team Announced

Max Fordham will collaborate with Jamie Fobert Architects on the £35.5 million refurbishment of the National Portrait Gallery.

The design team also includes specialist heritage architects Purcell and structural engineer Price and Myers.

The project will result in a 20% increase of available exhibition space, a renovated and enhanced entrance for visitors, and a new learning centre.

Speaking in the Architects Journal, Fobert said 'the National Portrait Gallery plays a unique and important role in the cultural life of our nation, charting our past and engaging with the present'.

Max Fordham Senior Partner, Mark Nutley (pictured) was effusive in his praise of the design team. 'We've worked with Jamie on a number of great projects over the years, most recently the wonderful extension to Tate St Ives,' he explained. 'Likewise, we've a long history with Purcell, and with Price and Myers. It's a great team and we can't wait to get started on this globally significant project'.

 The gallery, designed by Ewan Christian, opened in 1896. The refurbishment is due for completion in 2022.