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Autumn 2013 is set to be an exciting time for the Royal Academy as we unveil improved facilities for Friends, Patrons, Royal Academicians and visitors.
What is the Keeper’s House?
The Keeper’s House was originally a grace-and-favour home for the Keeper of the RA Schools. Located in the eastern wing of the building, the Keeper’s House was added to Lord Burlington’s 18th century mansion by architect Sydney Smirke RA. Today our aim is to transform the space into a place where Friends, Patrons, Royal Academicians and visitors can socialise in comfort.
What difference will the Keeper’s House make to your visit?
The existing Sir Hugh Casson and Belle Shenkman rooms – our dedicated spaces for Friends on the ground floor, will be redesigned and made more comfortable with improved seating, lighting and catering. The spaces immediately below these rooms will be transformed into a new restaurant and bar that will remain open into the evening. The Keeper’s House will benefit from having its own entrance and extended opening hours. The refurbishment will also include more toilet facilities, Wi-Fi and a dedicated cloakroom – not to mention an outdoor space visitors can enjoy in the heart of Mayfair. Having this new development will also allow us to offer an exciting events programme.
As shown in the illustration to the right, the area shaded in pink shows the spaces that Friends currently have access to. The white area below and to the right introduces the new spaces, and includes a lift directly to the Sackler Wing with a view of the Keeper’s House outdoor space below.
Who is working on the Keeper’s House Project?
The project is being led by award-winning architects Long & Kentish, with interior design by David Chipperfield Architects. The Keeper’s House will also be home to bespoke artist commissions by Royal Academicians such as Tracey Emin and Grayson Perry, as well as play host to a series of intimate exhibitions curated by the President of the RA, Christopher Le Brun. The new restaurant and bar will be run by renowned restaurateur Oliver Peyton, of Peyton and Byrne.
When will the Keeper’s House open?
The Keeper’s House will open in autumn 2013 and Friends, Patrons and Royal Academicians can enjoy this space from 10am – 4pm, seven days a week. The public will also be able to enjoy the Keeper’s House later in the evening, meaning all RA visitors will be able to experience this wonderful space.
“It is fitting that this admirable restoration will enable a house built to foster creativity, education and discussion to do so in proper comfort.” - Sir Simon Jenkins
Is there a Keeper of the RA Schools today?
The long standing tradition of appointing a Keeper to the RA Schools continues to this day with Eileen Cooper RA, well known as a printmaker and painter. The Keeper is elected from among the Royal Academicians and is responsible for the RA Schools, the oldest art school in Britain which offers the only three year, full-time postgraduate fine arts course. The RA Schools are located behind Burlington House.
“It will create an atmosphere and facility that will be second to none in the arts world.” - Stephen Fry
Where can I find out more?
To find out more about the Keeper’s House and to stay up to date with the developments here.
Friends can stay informed by signing up to Friends e-news here
Alternatively contact us at: keepershouse@royalacademy.org.uk or 020 7300 5709
Your support is our future
Great care has been taken to ensure that facilities for our Friends remain open throughout the development work, and that any disruption will be minimal. Putting these plans into action has only been made possible by the loyalty and generosity of our Friends, whose membership subscriptions have made a significant contribution. We look forward to welcoming you following the completion of the Keeper’s House.
