The Art of Luxury Issue 50 2022 | Page 98

ART & SCULPTURE

NISSEN RICHARDS STUDIO

COMPLETES REDESIGN OF VISITOR EXPERIENCE

AT THE COURTAULD GALLERY

The Courtauld Gallery has re-opened after the biggest redevelopment since it first moved to its magnificent 18th century home , Grade I-listed Somerset House in the Strand , in 1989 . Culturalsector specialist architects and designers Nissen Richards Studio were charged with the interpretation of the new visitor experience for the project , considering the entirety of the visitor journey from arrival , through all three levels of gallery space , culminating in the extraordinary LMVH Great Room . The remit included the scheme ’ s gallery and exhibition design – including a brand-new interior colour scheme ; bespoke visitor furniture and artwork showcase design , as well as the project ’ s wayfinding and signage . The design team also worked closely with Studio ZNA on the new lighting design .
‘ Our overall approach was to introduce elements that worked with the Grade I-listed building in a subtle yet contemporary way ’ Pippa
Nissen , Director of Nissen Richards Studio commented . ‘ We used materials that would complement and highlight the beauty and character of the building . Our gallery designs sought above all to showcase The Courtauld Gallery ’ s superlative collection , as well as the classical architecture and sheer scale of the rooms at Somerset House , whilst at the same time ensuring visitors enjoyed a sense of intimacy with the works .’
Nissen Richards Studio ’ s approach began with a consideration of the physical aspects of the environment , including the complexity of spaces and the way visitors experience and flow through them . Computer modelling was used to map visitor flow forensically , from street level into the entrance hall and then through the thirteen individual gallery spaces .
98 The Art of Luxury Issue 50 2022