Controversial Renovations in the National Pavilion: Between Innovation and Historical Preservation
Introduction to the Debate: Architectural Renovations in the Heart of London and New York
The architectural design decisions overseen by architect Annabelle Selldorf have sparked widespread controversy, particularly following her commission to carry out comprehensive renovations of the Sainsbury Wing at the National Gallery in London, as well as the Frick Collection in New York. This was part of an effort to modernize the spaces while maintaining their historical value and architectural character.
The Architect’s Perspective: Not Everyone’s Cup of Tea
In an interview Selldorf conducted during a discussion hosted by the National Gallery ahead of the reopening of the Sainsbury Wing, she addressed the nature of working in sensitive artistic and cultural environments. She remarked, “It is unrealistic to expect everyone to love what we love,” emphasizing that dialogue and critical thinking could contribute to building a convincing architectural stance.
New Designs vs. Architectural Legacy
It is worth noting that the new designs unveiled in 2022 provoked strong objections from advocates for preserving the original character of the pavilion, which was designed by architects Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown in 1991. Scott Brown expressed her firm opposition to the changes, describing the project as “destructive” and pointing out that the modifications would lead to the loss of the carefully planned flow of visitors.
Renovation Surprises: An Old Letter Reveals a Rare Insider Opinion
An Unexpected Discovery from the Past
The renovation project of the Sainsbury Wing made headlines once again last year when the removal of a non-structural column led to the discovery of an old letter from donor John Sainsbury. In this letter, Sainsbury described the columns added by architects Venturi and Scott Brown as a “mistake,” offering a new dimension to the debate surrounding the pavilion’s original design.
The New Design Philosophy: Clarity and Insight
Thoughtful Changes, Not Improvisation
Now, with the redesign completed, architect Annabelle Selldorf has shown clear confidence in the decisions she made during the renovation process. Some of the most notable modifications include:
- Replacing the dark glass with more transparent glass to allow light to flow through.
- Converting the first floor into a mezzanine, changing the movement flow within the pavilion.
Selldorf explained that every change made to this Grade I listed building was the result of thoughtful group discussions, not just individual decisions. She worked closely with the project team, including the British heritage studio Purcell.
“What matters is that I know why we did things; it wasn’t just an individual artistic journey.” – Annabelle Selldorf
Design as a Collective Process
In her talk, Selldorf emphasized that design is not just based on intuition or personal taste, but rather a blend of multiple considerations such as materials, historical context, and tectonic dimensions. She stressed that teamwork was key in making every decision.
Repeated Experiences with Debate: The Frick Project as an Additional Example
The Sainsbury project was not the only one to provoke mixed reactions; the Frick Collection in New York also saw similar discussions after extensive renovations carried out by Selldorf.
Expanding Spaces and Enhancing the Visitor Experience
The Frick project included:
- Adding 2,500 square meters of new construction.
- Reusing 5,574 square meters of existing space within the museum.
The aim of this expansion was to enhance the visitor experience by rehabilitating the historic Beaux-Arts building to better meet the needs of today.
The Debate Continues: The Frick Extension Sparks a Wave of Objections
A Divisive Expansion
As part of her project to update the Frick Collection, Selldorf Architects added a 2,500 square meter extension with the goal of providing greater flexibility for the museum to accommodate its visitors.
However, this expansion did not go unnoticed; it faced strong opposition from heritage preservation activists who believed the modifications “destroy or radically alter” significant architectural elements, most notably:
- The Russell Page Garden, created in 1997.
- The original music room, which was part of the 1935 expansion designed by John Russell Pope.
Working Under Pressure: “I’m Supposed to Live on the Edge”
Between Love and Criticism
Despite the criticism, Annabelle Selldorf appeared at peace with the reality that her controversial projects generate widespread attention.
“It’s a wonderful experience to see how much people care about the institution, even if it’s sometimes exhausting.”
She expressed gratitude for the support she received, as well as for the challenges she faced, affirming that the insistence on values and thoughtful design is what led the team to success.
A Humanistic Architectural Philosophy: The Visitor Comes First
Design That Opens Space for All
In an exclusive interview with Dezeen magazine, Selldorf highlighted her vision for the architect’s role within the museum. She believes that:
- Architecture should allow people to experience art at their own pace.
- Every artist has their way of expression, as do architects.
She added:
“I remember artwork through the atmosphere in which I saw it, not just as abstract images.”
Prioritizing Design
Selldorf revealed that the first things she considers when starting a design are:
- The movement of people within the space.
- The distribution of light.
- The proportions of the spaces.
Materials for walls, floors, or ceilings come later:
“I think of things first as black and white, and then I start building on that.”
Global Recognition: Selldorf Included in TIME’s 100 Most Influential People
In a move that underscores her status in the design world, Annabelle Selldorf was selected for TIME’s list of the 100 Most Influential People of 2025, alongside prominent figures such as:
- Ma Yansong, the renowned architect.
- Donald Trump and Keir Starmer, world leaders.
On this recognition, Selldorf said:
“It’s very strange… but wonderful at the same time.”
