design magazine

Article by Stelios Pentarvanis
Posted on February 08th, 2011
in Architecture & Herzog & de Meuron

A new addition to the London skyline will be the Tate Exchange. Situated behind the Tate Modern and designed by award winning architects, Herzog & de Meuron, it is intended to expand and update the exhibition spaces of the Tate Modern and provide improved facilities for the 5 million visitors who visit the existing venue each year.

The construction will rise 64.5m and contain 11 levels, and while exhibiting aspects of 21st century design, will retain the original industrial feel of the building. The brick façade incorporates a perforated lattice finish, allowing the interior lights to shine through at night. The windows and balconies appear to have been cut out of the face of the building. The oil tanks which form the base of the new structure create a rough edged atmosphere, presenting a venue for live performances as well as the newer genres of artistic expression.

The environmental aspect and sustainability of the building were both vital design features, with a view to setting a higher standard for other museums and galleries in the UK to follow. The emphasis on education currently practiced by the Tate Modern will be continued and enhanced with the opening of the Tate Exchange.