Caruso St John Architects

2006–2013
Location: London, UK
Client: Tate
Project Status: Built

Caruso St John were appointed as architects for Tate Britain in 2007. The long-term commission involves the development of a masterplan for the whole of the Tate’s Millbank site, building on the strength of the 2000 Centenary development. The masterplan envisages a major new extension on the adjacent Queen Alexandra Military Hospital site, which will accommodate a larger proportion of the Tate’s historic, modern and contemporary collection of British art, as well as continuing to refurbish and improve the existing building.

The first stage of the plan which was completed in November 2013 has involved work to existing galleries and to public amenities around the rotunda at the Millbank entrance. Galleries within the south quadrant, the oldest galleries of the building, have been repaired and restored, while integrating sustainable environmental control systems. Circulation spaces around the rotunda at the ground, main floor and first floor have been opened up, with new stairs and lifts connecting all levels. New members' facilities at the upper level, and a new café at the lower level, complement the facilities at the Manton entrance.