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Special Exhibitions Gallery, Manchester

Carmody Groarke's sustainable addition to the Museum of Science and Industry has reawakened a 19th-century warehouse's industrial splendour.

Special Exhibitions Gallery, Science and Industry Museum
Special Exhibitions Gallery, Science and Industry Museum Credit: Gilbert McCarragher

North West RIBA Regional Award 2022

Carmody Groarke for the Museum of Science and Industry
Contract value: Confidential
GIA: 985m2

Occupying a 19th-century warehouse and a former goods yard below a disused railway viaduct, the Special Exhibitions Gallery provides the Museum of Science and Industry with space for temporary displays and a characterful foyer that sets up new routes through its campus in line with wider masterplan. The welcoming entrance is enlivened by full-height panels of back-lit fibreglass that harmonise with the hues of vaulted brickwork but provide a delicate counterpoint to its weight. Extensive works were required to make a thermally stable gallery that meets international standards. New walls incorporate hygroscopic mass to reduce the need for dehumidification, and low-energy services are carefully coordinated to maintain visual simplicity. Intelligent design has made a sustainable, accessible addition to the museum and reawakened the buildings’ industrial splendour.

  • Special Exhibitions Gallery, Science and Industry Museum
    Special Exhibitions Gallery, Science and Industry Museum Credit: Gilbert McCarragher
  • Special Exhibitions Gallery, Science and Industry Museum
    Special Exhibitions Gallery, Science and Industry Museum Credit: Gilbert McCarragher
  • Special Exhibitions Gallery, Science and Industry Museum
    Special Exhibitions Gallery, Science and Industry Museum Credit: Gilbert McCarragher
  • Special Exhibitions Gallery, Science and Industry Museum
    Special Exhibitions Gallery, Science and Industry Museum Credit: Gilbert McCarragher
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