Dulwich Picture Gallery in south London has completed an ambitious $6.25 million development project that includes a brand-new interactive space designed specifically for children. The gallery is hosting a series of public celebrations on September 6-7 to mark the completion of this major initiative, which also features extensive new landscaping and improved visitor facilities.

The centerpiece of the project is the ArtPlay Pavilion, an innovative interactive environment created by Sarah Marsh and Stephanie Jefferies of Hold Collective. This London-based design duo has previously created immersive children's environments at prestigious venues including Tate, Whitechapel Gallery, Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester Art Gallery, Yorkshire Sculpture Park, and the Hepworth Wakefield. The pavilion offers play activities in a sensory-rich environment that draws inspiration directly from the gallery's collection of historic paintings.

The development also includes a completely revamped and extended Gallery Cottage that will serve dual purposes throughout the week. During school days, it will function as a lunch facility for visiting student groups, while on weekends it will operate as a family cafe and shop, providing enhanced amenities for weekend visitors and families.

"We have been testing things here for years, so we knew that this is what we needed," explained Jennifer Scott, the director of Dulwich Picture Gallery. "We already have a fully subscribed art education program for children here, but we knew that there was an opportunity to do something a little bit more playful." Scott emphasized the gallery's commitment to accessibility and innovation, noting that when they first opened in 1817, the concept of a purpose-built public art gallery was revolutionary.

"We first opened our doors in 1817, and it was a brand new thing to have a purpose-built public art gallery," Scott continued. "And what drives us now is the idea that art is for everyone. Our founders were pretty quirky, and that quirkiness is in our DNA, and so it feels nice to do things that are unexpected, surprising and fun. But actually, as the project has developed, it has felt like a necessity – something that has been much needed for us and our audiences."

The architectural design for the entire development, including the ArtPlay Pavilion, was handled by Carmody Groarke, a respected London-based architectural practice known for designing cultural buildings. Among their notable projects is the Windermere Jetty Museum in England's Lake District. The firm successfully integrated modern functionality with the gallery's historic character.

As part of this comprehensive renovation, several elements from Sir John Soane's original 1811 architectural plans for the gallery have been carefully restored. Most significantly, this includes the creation of a new entrance on Gallery Road, which enhances visitor access and flow throughout the facility.

Sustainability played a crucial role in the development scheme. The project features a ground source heat pump system that will power both the gallery's existing spaces and the new buildings. The new structures are equipped with solar panels and constructed using timber frames sourced from sustainably managed UK forests, demonstrating the gallery's commitment to environmental responsibility.

The landscape design was entrusted to renowned landscape artist Kim Wilkie, who created the Lovington Sculpture Meadow as a key component of the expanded Sculpture Garden. This innovative outdoor space transformed a previously underutilized field on the south side of the gardens into an "art forest" featuring 130 newly planted trees specifically chosen to enhance local biodiversity and create a unique sculptural environment.

Funding for this ambitious project came from several prestigious sources, demonstrating strong support from the philanthropic community. The Julia Rausing Trust provided specific support for the ArtPlay Pavilion, while additional major funding came from the Manton Foundation, Wolfson Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This diverse funding base reflects the project's broad appeal and cultural significance.

The completed development represents a significant milestone for Dulwich Picture Gallery, balancing respect for its historic legacy with innovative approaches to engaging contemporary audiences, particularly families and young visitors. The project positions the gallery as a leader in creating inclusive, interactive cultural experiences while maintaining its reputation for excellence in displaying and interpreting historic art.