MRJ RUNDELL + ASSOCIATES LTDArchitecture & Design Services

A new build 12,000 sq ft art gallery in a courtyard within the St. James’s conservation area in central London.

The design was developed to respect the key qualities of discretion and reserve that form the character of St James’. Mason’s Yard is entered though a number of footpaths and covered passageways. Within an array of mismatched brick structures which comprise the perimeter of the courtyard, White Cube’s formal restraint creates a contrast while retaining the core characteristic of discretion. At ground level concrete panels wrap around the base of the structure. Above the concrete, the rendered volume is cut with a series of precise light slots. A glass box extends further above the render.

The project required the excavation of an 8 metre deep basement to provide a large underground gallery which receives natural light through a pair of long slots cut into the courtyard paving. On ground level the building has a gallery directly accessed from the courtyard with offices, private viewing rooms and a roof terrace located on the three upper levels.

The project also included a complete resurfacing of the courtyard that surrounds the gallery.

White Cube, Masons Yard

White Cube, Mason’s YardPrivate Gallery

Location: LondonCompletion Date: September 2006Construction Value: £6 million

Client: White CubeStructural Engineer: Atelier OneContractor: Cosmur Ltd.Project Manager: Malcolm Reading Associates

MRJ RUNDELL + ASSOCIATES LTDArchitecture & Design Services

White Cube, Masons Yard