Kelvingrove Just Misses the Gulbenkian

The Kelvingrove New Century Project, the three year restoration of Glasgow's favourite building, reached the shortlist of four for this year's Gulbenkian Prize for museums and galleries, narrowly missing out on the UK's biggest single arts award which went to Pallant House Gallery in Chichester at a ceremony in London last night (Thursday 24 May).

According to the panel of judges all four of the galleries and museums were "vivid and exciting" and the decision had inspired "impassioned and sometimes agonised debate".

Described as "one of the greatest civic collections in Europe" the building and displays at Kelvingrove were brought up to 21st century standards. Display space was increased by the removal of offices and workshops, the opening up of the basement, and the use of off-site storage facilities. The number of objects on display was increased by 50%, and thousands of square metres of new display space was created.

BDP Architect Director Angus Kerr in charge of the restoration said. "While we are, of course, disappointed that Kelvingrove did not win the Gulbenkian I am pleased the project has won such acclaim and the building is now able to fulfill its function and to continue as a working art gallery and museum for future generations "

Also shortlisted were Kew Palace in London, Sheffield's Weston Park Museum

Credits
Client: Culture and Leisure Services, Glasgow City Council
Architect, Architectural Lighting Designer:  BDP(Building Design Partnership)
M&E Engineer: Hulley+Kirkwood
C&S Engineer: Halcrow
QS & Project Manager :Capita
Display Design:  Glasgow Museums' Curatorial Team with Event Communications