New light for a historic building
Located directly on Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is one of the most renowned museums in the world. As part of structural redevelopment, the former courtyard was transformed into a central circulation space. A new glass roof now spans the area across multiple levels. The structure is based on the LAMILUX Glass Roof PR60 and was precisely adapted to the complex geometries of the existing building.
43 m2 glazed area20° roof pitch8 SHEV twin flaps
Architecture meets heritage
The core challenge of this project was to integrate a modern system into a listed building – technically flawless and visually unobtrusive. In close collaboration with the architects and the general contractor, a certified glass roof system was developed that meets the highest standards of airtightness, acoustic performance, and safety. The slender aluminium structure allows maximum daylight with minimal visual impact – a roof that blends almost invisibly into the historic space.
Light as a curatorial element
In the National Gallery, light is more than a functional necessity – it is an integral part of the exhibition concept. The new glass roof continues this tradition: it floods the space with natural daylight and creates an atmospheric link between the artwork on the walls and the building’s architecture. The former courtyard becomes a luminous passage –between outside and inside, past and present.
Invisible technology, visible impact
Eight twin SHEV units with tandem drives ensure fire safety and fresh air supply. The system is controlled by intelligent automation and supplemented by rain sensors – all provided by LAMILUX. While the technology remains discreetly in the background, its effects are immediately noticeable: fresh air, secure smoke extraction, and a consistently pleasant indoor climate – even in a building with such sensitive usage as a museum.
Refurbishment with respect
Refurbishing heritage buildings requires the highest level of sensitivity: every intervention must meet modern technical standards while preserving historical character. This is where the challenge – and the strength – of this project lies. The new Glass Roof PR60 modernises the National Gallery both functionally and energetically, without overpowering the architecture. It exemplifies how careful architectural updates can preserve cultural value while adding new spatial qualities.
Share this post
