Fitzwilliam Museum - University of Cambridge

The 200 year old Fitzwilliam Museum is part of the Cambridge University complex.  It specialises in fine arts and antiquities and provides an important study and research facility for students and academics alike.

As an old museum, the demand for space and the quality of the environment did not achieve the standards needed for the study and preservation of priceless antiques.

The challenge to the design team was to construct a new gallery within the courtyard to include a cafe and an education department at basement level. A glazed roof covers the courtyard area.

The scheme included conservation laboratories and fume cupboards to assist in the conservation of exhibits and removal of toxic contaminants whilst in a clean environment.  The majority of the areas housing art are served via air conditioning systems utilising HEPA filters for removal of fine particulate and carbon filters for removal of target gases.

SVM was a member of the successful design team led by the architects, John Miller Partnership. SVM is considered to be at the forefront of gallery and museum building services design with a portfolio of current museum and gallery projects including the Tate Britain, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh.