Client: Gilbert & George
Arch: SIRS Architects
CA: CHPK
QS: RSQS
Eng: SWECO
M&E: Bob Costello Associates
Photos: Photos by Prudence Cuming © The Gilbert & George Centre
Photos(construction): Darren Merriman
Film: Joseph Asghar

The Gilbert & George Centre involves the conversion of a 19th century former brewery into a new non-profit public art gallery and foundation for contemporary art. The project ultimately consists of three separate exhibition areas with caretaker accommodation.

The 602m2 scheme is set in one of East London’s most vibrant and diverse areas. The historic brewery building dates back to c1830 and is set in a secluded and leafy courtyard. The roof of a further structure from the 1970s was removed to enable the creation of a double height exhibition space suitable for the large-scale creations of the artist.

The brewery’s original slate roof tiles have been reinstated, along with interior timber cladding and sash windows. Walls were restored or rebuilt using London stock, and outside the cobblestone courtyard has also been restored. Westgreen also underpinned to form a new basement, with all levels being wheelchair accessible.

Since completion in 2023, The Gilbert & George Centre has been nominated for four prestigious awards ‒ AJ Architecture Awards 2023 (Cultural Project), Brick Awards 2023 (Public), Civic Trust Awards 2024, and the RIBA London Awards 2024.

In the spirit of philanthropy, the gallery is entirely funded by Gilbert & George, with access free to all.