Major transformational work at Gainsborough's House, the historic home and museum dedicated to 18th-century painter Thomas Gainsborough, has scooped three RIBA East architecture awards.
It has been awarded the esteemed Building of the Year Award 2024, as well as the Conservation Award 2024 and a Regional Award 2024 by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
The accolades recognise the museum's recent architectural transformation at Gainsborough's birthplace, led by ZMMA Architects.
The RIBA jury praised the project for its sensitive approach to the preservation of the Grade 1 listed and historic buildings, exemplary craftsmanship, and the seamless integration of new buildings within the existing site.
The transformation includes a new Gainsborough gallery, exhibition galleries, the spectacular Landscape Studio, educational facilities, a café and improved accessibility.
Calvin Winner, Director of Gainsborough's House, said: “Winning the RIBA East Building of the Year Award is such an incredible achievement. This recognition celebrates the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in this project particularly the previous director Mark Bills, the hard-working team, and the wonderful architects at ZMMA.
"The aim was to create a space that not only honours Gainsborough's legacy but also provides a dynamic environment for contemporary audiences. This award is a testament to the success of that vision. It is good news for Suffolk and great news for Sudbury.”
Adam Zombory-Moldovan, Principal at ZMMA said: “These Awards are a fabulous accolade for Gainsborough’s House’s astonishing transformation into a major cultural destination, and we are honoured to have worked with the inspirational team at Gainsborough’s House.
"Credit also goes to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and other financial supporters who made this ambitious project possible.”
Gainsborough's House is the childhood home of, and now an international centre for, Thomas Gainsborough RA (1727–88).
One of the great figures of British and global art history, he was renowned not only for his advancement of portraiture but also for being one of the founders of the British School of landscape painting.
In 2022 Gainsborough’s House re-opened to the public after a £10m transformational refurbishment, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The new building has been constructed with locally-made brick and flint.
The house is open daily from 10am–5pm. Admission: £16.50 with Gift Aid, £15 without Gift Aid
For more information, visit www.gainsborough.org
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