Selldorf Architects' Controversial Renovation of the National Gallery's Sainsbury Wing: A Loss of Postmodern Charm?

Selldorf Architects' Renovation Sparks Debate

Selldorf Architects' recent renovation of the National Gallery's Sainsbury Wing in London has stirred controversy, with critics arguing that the project has stripped the building of its postmodern charm. Originally designed by Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown in 1991, the Sainsbury Wing is a celebrated example of postmodern architecture, listed at Grade I for its heritage significance.

The Transformation

The renovation aimed to address accessibility and security issues, transforming the wing into the gallery's main entrance. However, the changes have been met with mixed reactions. Key alterations include:

• Replacement of the original smoky glazing with clear glass
• Relocation of the entrance doors, creating a less direct entry sequence
• Removal of signature drum columns and reconfiguration of the space
• Introduction of a double-height opening to enhance light flow

Criticism and Heritage Concerns

Critics argue that the renovation has "unnecessarily smoothed out" the original design's complexities and contradictions. The new details are described as "unhelpfully meek" compared to the bold postmodern aesthetic of Venturi and Scott Brown's work. Heritage experts question whether the changes comply with standard heritage practice, which typically emphasizes retaining original fabric and respecting key design concepts.

A Failure of Nerve?

Some suggest that the renovation reflects a "failure of nerve", with the new design lacking the playful, postmodern character of the original. While the pragmatics of accessibility and security justified some changes, critics believe the alterations went beyond what was necessary, diluting the building's original "dark to light" concept.

The Architect's Perspective

Selldorf Architects collaborated with UK heritage architects Purcell on the project. Jon Wright of Purcell argues that the original design of these spaces underwent many iterations and were not core to the overall concept. However, the debate continues, with many questioning the balance between modernization and preservation in heritage architecture.