With contributing artwork for bar, furniture and shutters by artist Richard Woods, Stirling Prize nominated architecture studio dRMM have transformed what was once a delivery yard into a new Storefront gallery and multi-coloured, multi-use art space for Modern Art Oxford.

MOA’s brief was to promote access to and use of their gallery. The new 5m x 15m x 5m ramped lobby, known as The Yard, is positioned as an installation work; not permanent, plastered or white, but its interior walls and ceiling are clad in timber and polycarbonate panels while the original tarmac floor of the yard, complete with yellow road markings, has been retained. Artists will in turn react to and transform this entry space with an ongoing programme of site-specific 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 shutters coated in Richard Woods’ typical stylistic wood grain, invites the passer to view interior and exterior as a simultaneous artwork. Beatrice Galilee

Project team:
Architect: dRMM
Artist: Richard Woods
Structural and M&E Engineer: Ridge and Partners
Cost Consultant: David Flower
Specialist Timber Contractor: KLH UK
Catering Consultant: John Conroy
Main Contractor: Knowles and Son
Materials: Timber, polycarbonate, paint