BDP and MICA shortlisted for the National Gallery's Project Domani

Image: The National Gallery, London - courtesy BDP

A recent announcement has confirmed that BDP, working in collaboration with Kengo Kuma & Associates (KKAA) and MICA, will provide technical and delivery expertise to the team shortlisted to design the National Gallery’s new wing as part of Project Domani - the Gallery’s most significant transformation in two centuries.

BDP confirms:

'Selected from an international field of 65 submissions, the team will now develop proposals for a landmark extension on the site of St Vincent House. The new wing will house the Gallery’s expanded collection, extending its presentation of paintings beyond 1900 and enhancing the cultural link between Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square.'

MICA states:

'A fantastic collaboration for an extraordinary opportunity; we look forward to our working together over the next several months and being part of the Gallery’s ambition for a distinguished new wing for art and to link Leicester Square to Trafalgar Square.'

The National Gallery describes the project:

'We have launched a landmark international architectural competition for the design of a transformative new wing to house an expanded national collection.

'Following our 200th anniversary celebrations, we announced Project Domani, which will, in part, welcome a brand-new wing and public realm to the Gallery. This will be the largest transformation since the Gallery’s formation in 1824. To find a design team for this landmark project, on 10 September 2025, we launched an architectural competition to shape our future. A new wing of the National Gallery and transformation of surrounding public areas.

'Our ambition is to create an architecturally distinguished, sustainable, and state-of-the-art new wing and public space. The National Gallery’s renowned collection of great paintings and our ambition to develop this further for the benefit of a larger, more diverse public, demands a space that not only preserves and displays the artwork, but also elevates the visitor experience, enhancing the Gallery’s status as one of the most-visited museums in the world.

'The new wing will be built on the last remaining part of the National Gallery campus: St Vincent House. The property was acquired nearly 30 years ago, for the purpose of expanding gallery space, and currently houses a hotel and office complex. 

'The project aims to invigorate this corner of central London, connecting Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square. Embedding the Gallery as a cornerstone within London’s arts quarter, it will also cement our reputation as a leader in the art world and the UK’s commitment to culture and heritage. 

'Project Domani will also revitalise the area between Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square, creating a vibrant, fresh experience for visitors. The new wing will benefit from the dramatic advances made in building techniques and sustainability during recent decades. It will be a landmark of both local and international significance, enriching the nation’s artistic presence on a global scale.'