National Maritime Museum, Neptune Court

A national treasure revived by creative technology.

We created 11 new gallery spaces by redesigning the wings around the courtyard.

Lifts, ramps, steps and a new north entrance were added to improve access.

We recaptured Neptune Court’s 19th-century elegance by stripping clutter and making subtle modern additions.

By reinforcing the existing walls, we were able to create a dramatic glazed roof over the courtyard without using columns.

Brief

  • reconfigure the courtyard to provide new gallery space
  • revive and roof over the historic Neptune Court
  • improve the circulation of visitors through the museum

Results

  • more capacity through increased gallery space and better access
  • new north entrance created a more logical flow of visitors
  • fresh aesthetic and covered courtyard are new attractions
  • awards include the Civic Trust Award 2000 and the Institution of Structural Engineers Special Heritage Award, 2000

Facts

Location: Greenwich, London, UK
Client: Trustees of the National Maritime Museum
Construction cost: £20m
Completed: 1999
Awards: 3

Integrated services

lead consultant, masterplanning, architecture (with Rick Mather Architects), environmental engineering, lighting, interior design

Links to images