Kerstin Thompson Architects has been awarded the design of a permanent café at the National Gallery of Australia in Kamberri/Canberra.
Selected via an open tender process, the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) said the practice’s vision for the hospitality venue aligned with their own. Furthermore, Kerstin Thompson Architects’ (KTA) demonstrated history in designing cultural institutions, such as Bundanon Art Museum and Melbourne Holocaust Museum, was highly regarded.
NGA director Nick Mitzevich said the institution is thrilled to have Kerstin Thompson Architects on board to enhance the appeal of the national, cultural destination. “The national gallery looks forward to creating a new dining venue to add significant dimension to the amenity and the experience of the national gallery – great food and beverage served in an inspiring new space will provide new opportunities for connection, reflection and enjoyment,” Mitzevich said.
The proposed dining outlet will be sited at the main entrance of the gallery. It will open out onto the Australian Garden, as well as provide views of James Turrell’s architectural skyspace Within Without (2010).
KTA principal Kerstin Thompson said the venue will offer new and diverse ways to experience art – outside the walls of a traditional gallery room setting. “We imagine it will be integral to the gallery circuit, a further place for the display of, immersion in, engagement with art. A destination for National Gallery visitors but also for locals passing by. Welcoming, connected to landscape, a place to meet, stay a while,” said Thompson.
The design brief highlighted a desire for the establishment to be complementary to the architectural style and language of the existing building.
The National Gallery Cafe is anticipated to open mid-2025. Trippas White Group will operate from the new cafe.