A redefinition of existing ground floor facilities with a new multi-use space for a flexible programme of films, performance events, installations and café bar.

Modern Art Oxford’s brief to promote access to and use of the Gallery was met by dRMM with the transformation of an existing delivery yard into a new type of gallery space for the UK, a ‘storefront gallery’ venue. The new 5x15x5m ramped lobby is positioned as an installation work; not permanent, plastered or white, but carefully constructed from massive engineered timber and polycarbonate panels. Artists will in turn react to and transform this entry space with an ongoing programme of exhibits.

The Yard provides a new entrance and overall image for the museum on a more active street frontage, with direct level access, in central Oxford. Streetscape improvements are envisioned with the scheme as catalyst. The Yard is intended to address the pedestrian or cyclist; shoppers and tourists are as welcome as students and regular gallery-goers. The deliberate omission of façade connects the gallery directly with the Oxford streetscape by day. At night, a specially painted and perforated roller shutter invites the passer to view interior and exterior as a simultaneous artwork.

dRMM designed the Yard from an idea by MAO Director Michael Stanley, and coordinated contributing design input of structural engineer, catering consultant and specialist LED lighting manufacturer. With contributing artwork for bar, furniture and shutter by Richard Woods, MAO and dRMM present gallery architecture as ‘useful art’.

London-based architectural practice dRMM is extending the Modern Art Oxford building by converting a side entrance and generating a comprehensively adaptable room for exhibitions, installations and events.

The new entrance to the museum opens the building to the street and the city. There are transparent areas in the entrance which arises to the ceiling level and the entrance door which can be opened to the top provides a free view into the inside of the gallery. The concept of the room as an installation is intended to arouse the curiosity and interest of passers by. An initial contribution was made by Richard Woods with work upon the bar, arrangement and design of the entrance door.

The basic lighting reacts in accordance with the diverse use of the room and lighting units from cor light are arranged along the side walls, providing a distribution of light that can be matched to the respective scenario.