V&A unveils design shortlist for London museum extension

The V&A has unveiled a seven-strong shortlist of practices that will be submit design proposals for its Exhibition Road development, providing an extension to the museum in London’s Kensington.

The shortlist, chosen from more than 110 architectural teams from all over the world, comprises:

• Amanda Levete Architects
• Heneghan.peng.architects
• Jamie Fobert Architects
• Jun Aoki & Associates
• Michael Maltzan Architecture (MMA)
• Snøhetta & Hoskins
• Tony Fretton Architects.

A jury, chaired by V&A trustee Steve McGuckin, made the selection based on the practices’ response to the design brief and previous work.

McGuckin said: “We are delighted by the quality of the international response to this project. The jury was unanimous in its selection and is confident that the shortlist will produce interesting and intelligent design solutions for this complex V&A site.”

V&A director Sir Mark Jones said: “Some of the shortlisted architects previously carried out design studies which helped the V&A better understand what was achievable on the site. We are pleased that these companies have continued to maintain their drive and enthusiasm for the project and we look forward to seeing their new design proposals in due course.”

The Exhibition Road project will comprise a purpose-built gallery for the V&A’s temporary exhibitions, a courtyard within the historic facades of the V&A’s grade 1 listed buildings, and a new entrance on Exhibition Road through the Aston Webb screen.

The new gallery will be below street level, while the courtyard above will be used for installations and events as well as including a café.

The project, which is part of the V&A’s FuturePlan to transform the museum, will contribute to the development and semi-pedestrianisation of Exhibition Road led by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

The shortlisted architectural teams will develop detailed design proposals and the jury will select a winner in the spring.

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