Multi-Award Winning Architects behind MK Gallery Expansion

Posted 21st August 2017

MK Gallery is working with 6a architects, winner of a number of Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Awards in 2017, including RIBA London Building of the Year and a RIBA National Award. Best known for their contemporary art galleries, educational buildings, artists’ studios and residential projects, 6a architects is amongst the shortlist for the coveted 2017 RIBA Stirling Prize for the UK’s best new building. 

This recognition of 6a’s exemplary work is very timely, as its design for the expansion of MK Gallery draws close to construction. Milton Keynes is an architectural set piece of the highest order and to complement that, MK Gallery has stressed the importance of working with stand-out suppliers to create the most innovative, engaging and accessible MK Gallery for the future. 

As the fastest-growing and most dynamic city in the UK, with aspirations to become the European Capital of Culture in 2023, Milton Keynes’ cultural and educational wellbeing required bigger and better facilities than that of the existing MK Gallery. 

The expansion, which will create a first-rate cultural, artistic and social centre, will support the wellbeing and enrichment of visitors’ lives, through providing world-class cultural experiences alongside targeted programmes to support those new to the arts. 

Six buildings have been shortlisted for the UK’s most prestigious architecture prize, with 6a acknowledged for the design of artist and fashion photographer, Juergen Teller’s West London studio. 

Anthony Spira, MK Gallery Director, explains: “6a architects is one of the best British practices and we are excited to be working with them to create a unique space to stimulate, engage and delight large numbers of visitors. 

 “The new MK Gallery will combine stunning exhibition spaces for world-class historical and modern art with a multi-purpose events auditorium, dedicated learning and community space and an independent café bar and a gift shop. The new building will be fully accessible so that we can provide the very best arts experiences for wide audiences and extend our work with families, community groups and those impacted by health, financial and social concerns. 

 “We wish 6a all the best for the RIBA Stirling Prize, and look forward to the announcement of the winner on Tuesday 31 October.” 

For further information about the MK Gallery expansion and to find out how you can support the educational charity, visit www.mkgallery.org or find us on Twitter, Facebook and TripAdvisor.