Ashmolean Museum

Established in 1683, the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford proudly claims the title of Britain’s first public museum. Greenway Associates, led by Jamie Kessack, were appointed as the Cost Consultant for the redevelopment of Britain’s oldest public museum. From ancient Egyptian artefacts, to Renaissance masterpieces and contemporary treasures, the Ashmolean invites visitors on a journey through time and culture, while offering a profound glimpse into the artistic and historical achievements that have shaped our world.

OUR ROLE

Greenway Associates were recruited by Exhibition Designer Metaphor to assist with cost planning for the Ashmolean Museum during the concept and scheme design phases. We played a key role in managing the procurement for what was the largest display case contract in the UK at the time, which included an impressive 466 showcases!

After the contract was secured, the General Contractor took over responsibility for both the installation of the display cases and the exhibition works.

THE PROJECT

The aim of the project was to enhance the Museum’s appeal by engaging with both families and experts alike. A journey through the four exhibition floors showcases a carefully crafted visual experience, designed to captivate a diverse audience. The collections span a wide range of subjects - including sculpture, archaeology, decorative arts, ceramics, glassware, furniture and painting.

The redevelopment of the Ashmolean has 100 per cent more display space, with 35 new galleries, four temporary exhibition spaces, three new study centres, an education centre and a restaurant.

Notable features of the project include 100-meter wall cases equipped with heavy-duty hinges and pull-and-slide mechanisms, 466 showcases and numerous other elements such as central displays, graphics and internal components.

CHALLENGES AND ACHIEVEMENTS

A standout memory, Jamie recalls, was the intricate structure of the project team. “It was a fascinating experience to observe and manage the interactions within such a diverse team.”

The project involved multiple layers of collaboration: the Ashmolean Museum and its advisors, a key donor (Lord Sainsbury) and his advisors, the base build architect (Rick Mather), the base build QS (Gardiner & Theobald), the exhibition designer (Metaphor), and the exhibition QS (Greenways).

This multifaceted network of stakeholders and experts added a layer of complexity and challenge, particularly in navigating the dynamics between the client and the donor.

Another notable aspect of the project was the display case contract, which attracted tenders from companies across Europe. Jamie continues, “The scale of the work required to bring the Ashmolean Museum to fruition was truly impressive. It was a significant honour for us to be a part of such a groundbreaking endeavour.”