The National Gallery has unveiled new event spaces, following the completion of a £85m investment into the redevelopment of its Grade I listed Sainsbury Wing.
Reopened to the public on 10 May by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, the reimagined wing represents a major milestone in the Gallery’s bicentenary celebrations.
Work, which has taken place over two years and took a ‘re-use first’ approach to materials for sustainability, included a reconfiguration of the ground floor entrance, creating flexible new spaces for out-of-hours events.
The venue’s 322-seat lecture theatre is now available to hire, with the adjoining foyer also suitable for receptions, networking, and catering. Additional daytime event spaces on the wing’s first floor provide flexible options for business meetings and events.
The venue’s new mezzanine level features a circular statement bar and a restaurant by Giorgio and Plaxy Locatelli, with additional catering reimagined by newly appointed partner Searcys, delivering spring/summer 2025 menus.
Other developments include a new Supporters House within the former offices of the historic Wilkins Building, with dedicated spaces for the Gallery supporters and members.
Out of hours, this space will also be available for venue hire from the autumn. With a separate entrance from Trafalgar Square, it also has its own bar, private dining room, lounge, and event space for up to 100 guests.
In addition, the Gallery’s new and transformed Roden Centre for Creative Learning can also be used for commercial events out of hours, with direct access to the North Galleries for unique settings for memorable events surrounded by masterpieces.
Clare Arouche, head of events & hospitality at the National Gallery, said: “With this transformation, we are redefining what it means to host events in an inspiring setting. From cutting-edge facilities to elegant, flexible spaces in a prime London location, we have created an environment where creativity, mindfulness and connection can thrive.”
