2.2 Architectural development and expansion
3 min read•july 24, 2024
The 's architecture has evolved dramatically since 1759. From its baroque beginnings in to the masterpiece we see today, each phase reflects changing tastes and needs. The museum's growth mirrors its expanding collections and visitor numbers.
The museum's , with its , , and grand halls, isn't just for show. It symbolizes democracy and learning, aligning with the museum's mission. Key architects like and have left their mark, blending classical aesthetics with modern innovations.
Architectural Evolution of the British Museum
Architectural evolution of British Museum
Top images from around the web for Architectural evolution of British Museum
Ionic Columns | Detail, The British Museum, by Robert Smirke… | Steve Cadman | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
The British Museum (1823-47), by Robert Smirke | Steve Cadman | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Robert Smirke (architect) - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Ionic Columns | Detail, The British Museum, by Robert Smirke… | Steve Cadman | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
The British Museum (1823-47), by Robert Smirke | Steve Cadman | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Architectural evolution of British Museum
Ionic Columns | Detail, The British Museum, by Robert Smirke… | Steve Cadman | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
The British Museum (1823-47), by Robert Smirke | Steve Cadman | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Robert Smirke (architect) - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Ionic Columns | Detail, The British Museum, by Robert Smirke… | Steve Cadman | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
The British Museum (1823-47), by Robert Smirke | Steve Cadman | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- Original Montagu House (1759-1823) housed first British Museum collections in 17th-century Bloomsbury mansion ()
- Smirke's Quadrangular Building (1823-1857) replaced Montagu House with Greek Revival design featuring colonnaded facade and grand entrance ()
- (1827) completed as first part of new building showcased George III's book collection in neoclassical gallery (gilded bookcases)
- (1857) designed by Sydney Smirke added circular structure within central courtyard for scholars and researchers (domed ceiling)
- (1882-1885) expanded eastern side to accommodate growing collections and staff offices (Portland stone exterior)
- King Edward VII Galleries (1914) extended north wing for Asian antiquities and ethnographic objects (Beaux-Arts influences)
- Duveen Gallery (1939) built specifically to house Parthenon sculptures with classical design elements (skylit roof)
- New Wing (1970s) added modern extension for special exhibitions and additional gallery space (concrete and glass construction)
- Great Court renovation (2000) transformed inner courtyard with and created largest covered public square in Europe (2 acres)
Neoclassical influence on design
- Greek Revival characteristics shaped museum's iconic appearance through symmetry and in building layout
- Columns and adorned exterior emphasizing classical grandeur (Ionic order)
- Pediments and decorated facades with (mythological scenes)
- Smirke's design elements incorporated Ionic order columns on south entrance portico
- Sculptural decorations on exterior reflected museum's contents ()
- Greek architecture symbolized democracy and learning aligning with museum's educational mission
- Association with classical antiquity reflected museum's extensive
- Interior spaces featured and grand halls evoking ancient temples
- emphasis achieved through large windows and skylights illuminated artifacts
Key architects in museum's development
- Sir Robert Smirke principal architect of quadrangular building introduced Greek Revival style (1823-1857)
- Sydney Smirke completed Reading Room continuing Greek Revival theme with domed structure (1857)
- designed Duveen Gallery integrating modern construction with classical aesthetics (1939)
- created King Edward VII Galleries expanding north wing (1914)
- added White Wing to eastern side accommodating growth (1882-1885)
- Norman Foster led Great Court renovation transforming central courtyard (2000)
Impact of Great Court renovation
- Transformed unused inner courtyard into vibrant public area increasing usable space by 40%
- Innovative glass and steel roof covering 6,000 square meters allowed natural light penetration
- Improved circulation with new pathways connecting different parts of museum enhancing visitor flow
- Reading Room restoration preserved historic structure while allowing public access
- Created largest covered public square in Europe becoming new London landmark
- Incorporated technological advancements in climate control and energy efficiency
- Enhanced visitor experience with new facilities including shops cafes and information center
- Juxtaposed modern design against historic building creating architectural dialogue between old and new
Key Terms to Review (25)
Allegorical Figures: Allegorical figures are symbolic representations of abstract ideas or concepts, often personified in art and literature. These figures play a crucial role in conveying deeper meanings, moral lessons, or cultural narratives, especially within the context of architectural development and expansion, where they are used to embellish structures and communicate the values of a society.
Baroque style: Baroque style is an artistic and architectural movement that emerged in the late 16th century in Italy and lasted into the 18th century, characterized by grandeur, drama, and movement. It sought to evoke emotional responses through elaborate details, rich colors, and intricate designs, often incorporating elements of light and shadow to enhance the theatrical effect. This style played a significant role in the architectural development and expansion of various cities, as it was used to convey power and influence through monumental structures.
British Museum: The British Museum is a world-renowned museum located in London, established in 1753, that houses a vast collection of art and antiquities from various cultures and historical periods. It serves as a key institution for the study and preservation of global heritage, connecting the past to contemporary society.
Columns: Columns are vertical architectural elements that support structures and can also serve decorative purposes. They are essential in the development of architecture, enabling the construction of grand buildings and public spaces, which reflects the evolution of styles and techniques through history.
Friezes: Friezes are horizontal bands of decoration that typically run along the upper part of a wall, especially in classical architecture. They often feature sculptural reliefs, patterns, or inscriptions, contributing to the overall aesthetic and narrative of the building. Friezes can serve both decorative and symbolic functions, enhancing the visual appeal of architectural structures while also conveying cultural or historical messages.
Glass roof: A glass roof is a structural element that consists of glass panels used to cover a space, allowing natural light to enter while providing a sense of openness. This architectural feature has gained popularity due to its ability to blend indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing aesthetic appeal and creating dynamic spaces. The innovation of the glass roof represents significant advancements in engineering and design, contributing to the evolution of modern architecture.
Greco-Roman Collections: Greco-Roman collections refer to a curated assemblage of artifacts, artworks, and historical objects from ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, showcasing their cultural, artistic, and scientific achievements. These collections often include sculptures, pottery, coins, and inscriptions that reflect the influence of Greco-Roman culture on the development of Western civilization. The significance of these collections lies in their role in preserving and interpreting the rich heritage of these ancient societies.
Greek Revival: Greek Revival refers to an architectural movement that emerged in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, inspired by the classical architecture of ancient Greece. This style is characterized by its use of columns, porticos, and symmetry, embodying ideals of democracy and civic virtue that were highly regarded in the context of contemporary society. The Greek Revival movement played a significant role in shaping urban landscapes and public buildings during a period of architectural development and expansion, reflecting a desire to connect with the values of classical antiquity.
High ceilings: High ceilings refer to architectural features where the vertical space from the floor to the ceiling is significantly greater than standard measurements, often creating an expansive and open atmosphere in a building. This design element is closely linked to notions of grandeur and can influence both the aesthetic appeal and the functional use of a space, enhancing the experience within galleries and museums by allowing for larger artworks and improved lighting conditions.
Ionic Columns: Ionic columns are a style of column characterized by their scroll-like volutes at the top, part of classical architecture that originated in ancient Greece. These columns are often associated with grace and elegance, and they played a significant role in the architectural development of temples and public buildings, showcasing the aesthetics and engineering advancements of their time.
John Russell Pope: John Russell Pope was an influential American architect known for his neoclassical designs in the early to mid-20th century. He played a significant role in architectural development and expansion during this period, contributing to the design of several prominent buildings and museums that reflect the ideals of classicism and monumental architecture.
King's Library: The King's Library refers to a historical collection of books and manuscripts that was established in the early 19th century, primarily associated with King George III of Great Britain. This library is a significant part of the British Museum, showcasing the evolution of knowledge and cultural expansion through its extensive collection of rare volumes, which reflect the intellectual pursuits of the Enlightenment era and the royal interest in fostering education and scholarship.
Montagu House: Montagu House was a prominent mansion located in Bloomsbury, London, originally built in the late 17th century and later expanded in the 18th century. This house is significant as it became the home of the British Museum after it was purchased by the government in 1753, marking a major development in architectural expansion and public access to knowledge and culture in London.
Natural light: Natural light refers to illumination that comes from the sun or the moon, as well as other celestial bodies. It plays a crucial role in architectural design, particularly in museums, as it influences the atmosphere and perception of space. The use of natural light can enhance the viewing experience by creating dynamic environments that change throughout the day, while also posing challenges such as preservation concerns for delicate artifacts.
Neoclassical Design: Neoclassical design refers to an architectural style that emerged in the mid-18th century, characterized by its inspiration from classical antiquity, especially ancient Greek and Roman architecture. This style emphasizes symmetry, simplicity, and grandeur, often featuring columns, domes, and pediments. It reflects a broader cultural movement that valued reason and order, connecting to significant architectural development and expansion during the era.
Norman Foster: Norman Foster is a renowned British architect known for his innovative and sustainable designs, as well as for his role in shaping modern architecture. His work emphasizes the use of advanced technology and environmentally conscious practices, significantly contributing to architectural development and expansion in urban environments. Foster's designs often integrate functionality with aesthetics, making them iconic landmarks in cities around the world.
Pediments: Pediments are the triangular upper parts of a building's facade, typically situated above the horizontal structure of a portico or entryway. They originated in classical architecture and have become a hallmark feature of various architectural styles, symbolizing balance and proportion. Their design often includes decorative elements such as sculptures or reliefs, enhancing the visual appeal and significance of the structure they adorn.
Porticos: Porticos are architectural features that consist of a roof supported by columns or pillars, typically forming a covered entrance or walkway to a building. They are significant in architectural development as they not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of structures but also provide shelter and transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, representing a blend of form and function in architectural design.
Proportion: Proportion refers to the relationship between different elements in terms of size, quantity, or degree, particularly how they compare to each other within a specific context. In architecture, proportion is crucial for achieving balance and harmony in design, influencing how structures are perceived in relation to their surroundings and the human scale. This concept also plays a significant role in architectural development and expansion as it affects the visual impact and functionality of buildings.
Reading room: A reading room is a dedicated space within a library or museum where visitors can study, read, and access materials in a quiet environment. These rooms serve as essential areas for research and contemplation, allowing individuals to engage with texts and artifacts in a focused manner. In the context of institutions like the British Museum, reading rooms have historically played a significant role in supporting scholarship and providing access to valuable resources.
Robert Smirke: Robert Smirke was a prominent British architect known for his neoclassical designs in the early 19th century, particularly for public buildings and museums. His work represents the architectural development and expansion of this era, marking a shift towards grand, monumental structures that reflected civic pride and cultural aspirations in Britain.
Sculptural Elements: Sculptural elements are three-dimensional artistic forms integrated into architectural designs, enhancing the aesthetic and emotional impact of a structure. These elements can include statues, reliefs, and decorative motifs that contribute to the overall narrative and character of the building. In the context of architectural development and expansion, sculptural elements often reflect cultural values, historical significance, and technological advancements in materials and techniques.
Sir John Taylor: Sir John Taylor was a prominent British architect and designer known for his contributions to the architectural development and expansion of museums in London during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work not only shaped the physical structures of these institutions but also influenced their aesthetic and functional aspects, showcasing a blend of innovative design and historical reference. Taylor's impact extended beyond mere construction; he played a pivotal role in the evolving narrative of museum architecture, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and public engagement.
Spencer and Baines: Spencer and Baines refers to the architectural firm known for its innovative designs and contributions to museum architecture during the 19th century. Their work played a crucial role in shaping the aesthetic and functional aspects of museums, reflecting the broader trends of architectural development and expansion in that period.
White Wing: The term 'white wing' refers to a distinct architectural style characterized by the use of white or light-colored stone and elaborate detailing, often seen in various historical buildings in London. This style became prominent during a period of architectural development and expansion when cities sought to create a sense of grandeur and elegance in their urban landscapes, reflecting the ideals of neoclassicism and later, Victorian architecture.