The South London Gallery’s building project opened to the public in June 2010. Designed by 6a architects, the project has expanded the gallery into a previously derelict neighbouring three-storey house to create the Matsudaira Wing which comprises a suite of three galleries, the Outset Artists’ Flat, a bookshop, a café and double height events space.  This is complemented by the beautiful Fox Garden, designed by Fraser & Morris, which leads to the Clore Studio at the rear of the site. The Clore Studio provides a flexible space for education workshops, talks, film screenings and private hire.

The aim of the building project was to provide more space, better facilities, expanded programmes and increased opportunities for engagement, in order to attract greater numbers of visitors to the gallery, enhance their quality of experience and learning whilst here, and provide more reasons for visitors to stay for longer and to return more frequently. Equally important, though, was the opportunity in 2003 to acquire the derelict neighbouring house when Southwark Council pledged to give it to the gallery on the condition that building work commenced within five years. 6a architects were commissioned in 2006 to refurbish the house to create the Matsudaira Wing comprising new gallery spaces, a flat and café, plus the construction of the Clore Studio.

Responses to the South London Gallery’s building project have been overwhelmingly positive and the impact has exceeded our expectations with an increase in annual visitor numbers from 25,000 to 140,000. Most importantly, the project has enabled the gallery to significantly develop its work of inspiring interest in and engagement with contemporary art among a broad range of audiences through an expanded programme of exhibitions, live art events and education activities.  

With thanks to the Building Project Team:

Building design
6a architects

Construction
John Perkins Projects Ltd

Design Team
Stockdale
Jane Wernick Associates
Serge Lai Engineers Ltd
Ori Gersht

Fox Garden designers
Fraser & Morris

 

Thank you also to all those who generously supported the realisation of the building project by making a grant or donation.

6a architects made a short film about the building project: