The British Museum has announced Lina Ghotmeh Architecture (LGA) as the winner of its international competition to redesign the Western Range galleries. This ambitious project, set for completion by mid-2026, marks a pivotal chapter in the Museum’s ongoing Masterplan, a long-term initiative to modernize its historic site while preserving its legacy. Covering a third of the Museum’s gallery space, the renovation will be one of the most significant cultural transformations in the world.
Led by the Paris-based, Lebanese-born architect Lina Ghotmeh, LGA was selected for its deeply sensitive approach to museum spaces, balancing historical context with innovative design. The competition, which attracted over 60 international firms, culminated in a rigorous nine-month selection process. Five finalists, including David Chipperfield Architects and OMA, were shortlisted, but Ghotmeh’s concept stood out for its “archaeological” approach, seamlessly integrating past and present.
A key feature of the redesign will be a reimagined space dedicated to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The expert jury, including British Museum Chairman George Osborne and Director Dr. Nicholas Cullinan, praised Ghotmeh’s use of sustainable materials and her ability to create a human-centered experience.
Ghotmeh describes her architectural method as an excavation—uncovering layers of history to inform contemporary design. Her previous projects, such as the Estonian National Museum and the Hermès Leather Workshop in Normandy, reflect this philosophy, prioritizing sustainability and contextual storytelling.
This transformation underscores the British Museum’s commitment to evolving while maintaining its historical significance. With Ghotmeh’s visionary leadership, the Western Range galleries will not only enhance the visitor experience but also redefine the way history is preserved and shared for generations to come.
Images courtesy of LINA GHOTMEH
