National Gallery of Victoria International

Long-term conservation of a world class gallery

Introduction

We were engaged to prepare a Conservation Management Plan to ensure the values of the NGVI were protected and enhanced through the Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation; a project that seeks to renew the public realm surrounding the NGVI, improve integration with other Southbank cultural institutions, and connect the proposed NGV Contemporary.

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), founded in 1861, is Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum. NGV International (NGVI), located on St Kilda Road, opened in 1968.

Balancing legacy with evolving needs

The multi-volume Conservation Management Plan considered previous management plans and provided a strong focus on supporting the day-to-day operations and management of the NGVI as a world class gallery.

Recognising that the gallery and exhibition functions require change to suit current and emerging artwork, visitor, and technical needs was central to the document. The policies, management action, and permit exemptions were drafted to support these needs while protecting and enhancing founding architect Roy Grounds’ legacy and the contribution of Mario Bellini & Metier3 architects-in-association through the renovation carried out in 2000.

The integration of an amendment to the VHR registration documentation and updated permit exemptions to this exercise saw an agreed position between the National Gallery of Victoria and Heritage Victoria on a suite of operational works, strategically reducing the need for statutory approvals.

The Conservation Management Plan also assists the design development of the collection of projects being delivered within the Victorian Arts Centre.