Second phase of works to add new library in the vaults of Somerset House
The Courtauld has unveiled plans for an £82m transformation of its Somerset House campus designed by 2025 Stirling Prize winner Witherford Watson Mann.
The art institute is embarking on the second phase of an upgrade programme at the grade I-listed building on the Strand which is set to add new teaching spaces, a new lecture theatre and a library within its subterranean vaults.
Purcell and Lawson Ward Studio are also working on the project, which comes two years after Witherford Watson Mann’s first phase of works in the building’s north wing were shortlisted for the 2023 Stirling Prize.
That scheme, completed in 2021, restored a series of exhibition spaces in the 18th century building including the LVMH Great Room, London’s oldest purpose-built exhibition space, to house the Courtauld’s collection of impressionist and post-impressionist artworks.
The second phase of works will focus on the art institute’s remaining space at Somerset House, which will be newly connected to a row of neighbouring townhouses on 152-158 Strand.
> Also read: Witherford Watson Mann’s almshouse wins Stirling Prize
The project is aiming to bring the institute’s students, staff, art historians, conservators, curators, visitors and art collection together under one roof.
The Courtauld, which was founded in 1932 by philanthropist and collector Samuel Courtauld, has said it wants the job completed by 2029 in time for its centenary.
Witherford Watson Mann’s Appleby Blue almshouse in Southwark was named the winner of this year’s Stirling Prize in October. The practice is also working on a £90m transformation of the Royal College of Art’s campus in Kensington.
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