The National Gallery has unveiled remarkable 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. The transformation is designed to create a more welcoming environment for visitors and has enhanced the venue’s event hire opportunities.
To mark the launch of the new spaces, the Gallery hosted an exclusive opening event on 22 May, welcoming industry leaders, partners and clients to experience the transformed Sainsbury Wing first-hand.
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.
At the heart of the redevelopment is the venue’s 322-seat lecture theatre, now available to hire, benefitting from a fully accessible main stage and state-of-the-art AV facilities for presentations, conferences, film screenings, award ceremonies, product launches, and more. The lecture theatre foyer can also be included for receptions, networking, and catering, with the addition of daytime event spaces on the wing’s first floor available for business meetings and events.
A new mezzanine level, with a circular statement bar and restaurant by Giorgio and Plaxy Locatelli, is a focal point, providing a visually impactful space for pre-dinner gatherings overlooking Trafalgar Square. It also features a new versatile space, the Whitcomb room, ideal for team activities, private business lunches and full-day board meetings
In addition to upgrading the spaces, the Gallery has invested in the latest AV and technology advancements. New technologies, such as a vast digital welcome wall, can include bespoke client welcome messaging and branding during out-of-hours commercial events.
Catering has also been reimagined, with newly appointed partner Searcys delivering new spring/summer 2025 menus. Options include a range of breakfast and lunch options, from freshly-made sandwiches and plant-based salads.
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. Whether planning a business meeting, conference, dinner or gala, our new spaces combine heritage and innovation to deliver unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impression.”
