Lina Ghotmeh Selected to Redesign the British Museum’s Western Range Galleries
The British Museum has announced that Lina Ghotmeh Architecture, based in Paris, will spearhead the ambitious redesign of its Western Range galleries in London. After a thorough two-stage international competition, the Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh’s studio was chosen as the “unanimous favourite" among a shortlist of five candidates. The studio’s method, referred to as “archaeological," perfectly aligns with the museum’s mission to transform its historic spaces while honouring its rich heritage.
Images courtesy of Lina Ghotmeh Architecture.
This project is a crucial part of the British Museum’s ongoing transformative master plan to enhance visitor engagement and modernise exhibition areas. Ghotmeh’s team will work closely with museum experts, with initial designs anticipated to be ready by mid-2026.
Though the final design is still under development, early visualisations provide an intriguing preview of the envisioned galleries. The redesign features expansive interiors with “materially sensitive” components and clerestory openings to introduce natural light, creating an immersive and reflective environment. The ground level will showcase a central exhibition area with visitor seating set amidst arched openings, while tiered balconies will support additional displays, offering layered views of the museum’s collection.
Images courtesy of Lina Ghotmeh Architecture.
Textured, stone-coloured surfaces reminiscent of archaeological digs will be integral to the transformation. This tactile design reflects Ghotmeh’s view of architecture as a storytelling device, deeply entrenched in historical and cultural narratives. Her past projects, noted for their attentiveness to materiality and heritage, hint that the British Museum’s redesigned galleries will harmonise contemporary aesthetics with historical significance.
This landmark initiative aims to redefine how visitors engage with one of the world’s most important cultural institutions, blending tradition and innovation to create a space that honours the past while looking towards the future.
