Architectural Cases

Kengo Kuma & Associates, in partnership with BDP and MICA, has emerged victorious in the competitive bid to design a new extension for London's prestigious National Gallery. This pivotal development is a cornerstone of the institution's ambitious 'Project Domani,' intended to redefine its architectural footprint and curatorial offerings. Launched in September 2025, the international design competition drew 65 entries, which were then narrowed down to six shortlisted teams. The chosen proposal is set to revolutionize the museum's capacity and artistic presentation, allowing for a seamless display of Western painting's historical progression under one roof, a monumental undertaking for the gallery since its inception in 1824.

The winning design garnered high praise from the judging panel for its exceptional balance of architectural clarity and contextual sensitivity, creating a harmonious dialogue with the existing Sainsbury Wing. The design features a distinctive architectural language characterized by stepped volumes and the use of Portland stone, carefully chosen to resonate with the surrounding urban environment and invite ample natural light into the interior spaces. Furthermore, the inclusion of landscaped elements, such as a rooftop garden and inviting public areas, promises to foster a more permeable and accessible public realm, forging stronger links between Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square. This integrated approach aims to extend the project's influence beyond its physical boundaries, enhancing the Gallery's civic presence and interaction with the city.

Inside, the scheme is meticulously organized into a series of distinct gallery environments, thoughtfully tailored to both curatorial needs and spatial considerations. The lower levels feature a sequence of vaulted and arched spaces, skillfully extending the architectural character of adjacent galleries and ensuring continuity within the museum's existing structure. In contrast, the upper levels present a more geometric and understated aesthetic, offering a shift in spatial experience while maintaining overall design coherence. This dual design strategy expertly supports a diverse range of exhibition formats and significantly elevates the visitor experience.

Beyond its aesthetic and functional merits, the proposal integrates a comprehensive strategy for sustainability and social value, guided by a dedicated Climate and Social Action Design Framework. Environmental considerations are deeply embedded within the project, alongside a strong commitment to community engagement. This approach underscores the cultural institution's vital role in addressing contemporary ecological and social challenges. The new wing will be erected on the site of St Vincent House, a property acquired nearly three decades ago for future expansion and currently housing a hotel and office complex. Its redevelopment represents the final significant opportunity to expand the Gallery's campus and solidify its relationship with the surrounding urban fabric.

In an era where the construction industry grapples with the imperative for genuinely sustainable solutions amidst the overuse of the term itself, Arquivo emerges as a beacon of innovation. Recognized with ArchDaily's prestigious 2025 Next Practices Award, this pioneering entity acts as a crucial link between various stakeholders in the construction realm. Its core mission revolves around the meticulous process of deconstruction and the thoughtful repurposing of building components. Diverging sharply from conventional demolition practices that contribute significantly to waste and energy consumption, Arquivo advocates for a circular economic model. This approach ensures that every retrieved material is given a renewed purpose, thereby fostering truly sustainable architectural endeavors.

Arquivo: Pioneering Deconstruction and Material Reuse for a Circular Architecture

In a significant development for the future of sustainable architecture, Arquivo, a distinguished winner of ArchDaily's 2025 Next Practices Award, is revolutionizing the construction industry's approach to material lifecycle. On April 9, 2026, Susanna Moreira unveiled the impactful work of Arquivo, highlighting its commitment to intelligent deconstruction and the extensive reuse of building materials. This innovative company operates on the principle that true sustainability in construction hinges on giving salvaged materials a new lease on life, rather than reducing them to waste. By meticulously disassembling structures, Arquivo not only mitigates the environmental damage typically associated with demolition—such as the vast generation of waste and high energy consumption—but also champions a vibrant circular economy. This initiative represents a profound shift in construction paradigms, where every component is viewed as a valuable resource with ongoing potential, contributing to a more resilient and environmentally conscious built environment.

Arquivo's innovative methodology represents a crucial step forward for the architectural and construction sectors. Its emphasis on intelligent deconstruction and material repurposing provides a tangible pathway toward mitigating environmental impact and fostering a truly circular economy. This approach challenges the conventional linear model of construction, prompting us to reconsider waste as a valuable resource. The success of Arquivo demonstrates that sustainability is not merely a buzzword but an achievable goal through thoughtful design and operational practices. It inspires a future where buildings are conceived with their end-of-life in mind, ensuring that every element can be reintegrated into new projects, thereby creating a regenerative cycle of construction and resource utilization.