NEW PROJECTS: William Morris Gallery

William Morris Gallery, uniquely devoted to the designer, craftsman, and radical socialist William Morris, is located in a Grade II listed building in Walthamstow, London that was once his family home. This public gallery houses the world’s largest collection of Morris's work and offers a dynamic range of contemporary exhibitions, events, and educational programs. Greenway Associates were appointed as the Cost Consultant and Project Manager for the refurbishment of this gallery, which is currently ongoing.

William Morris Gallery is undergoing an exciting refurbishment project, which is divided into two key initiatives: MEND and REHANG. This project aims to enhance the gallery's functionality, preserve its valuable collections and create a more welcoming environment for visitors.

MEND: Environmental Improvements

The MEND initiative has recently secured £417,990 from Arts Council England’s Museum Estate and Development Fund. Working on the fund application was challenging and required 2 attempts. Greenway Associates were pleased to assist in the application and were very happy to see it paid off in the end! This particular grant from ACE has been fantastic for museums and libraries all over the county. Leaky roofs, environmental controls and old infrastructure isn’t glamorous or attractive to donors, but it is essential to preserve our historic buildings and collections. This funding will address critical environmental challenges, particularly related to humidity and temperature control in this Grade II listed building. The improvements include:

Upgrading thermal insulation
Installing mechanical cooling systems
Enhancing ventilation
Adding dehumidification units
Applying solar film to windows

These enhancements are designed to improve the building’s performance, prevent further damage, and provide a more comfortable experience for visitors and staff, especially during the summer months. This initiative not only aims to enhance the Gallery’s environmental performance but also makes it more resilient to climate change and reduces its overall environmental impact. By implementing energy-efficient technologies and materials, the Gallery strives for a sustainable future.

The MEND project is expected to be completed in Spring 2025.

REHANG: Gallery Revamp

The REHANG initiative focuses on a complete revamp of all galleries within William Morris Gallery. Currently in mid-stage 3 (developed design), this project is being guided by the draft concept presentation from Sam Jacob Studio. While it awaits funding confirmation, William Morris Gallery is optimistic about completing renovations across all galleries. Additional funding could also enable improvements to the floor, restrooms, and meeting rooms.

The completion timeline for the REHANG project is still to be confirmed, but the aim is to initiate some works by October 2025.

Together, these projects mark a significant step toward enhancing William Morris Gallery’s role as a cultural landmark, celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2025 while ensuring a sustainable and engaging experience for all.