The British Museum announced that Lina Ghotmeh—Architecture has been selected as the winner of its Western Range competition, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s ambitious Masterplan project. Ghotmeh, renowned for her materially sensitive and historically informed approach to architecture, will lead the redesign of a key section of the Museum, ushering in one of the most extensive cultural renovations in the world.
The international architectural competition, launched in May 2024, attracted over 60 entries from some of the world’s most prestigious firms. After a rigorous two-stage selection process lasting nine months, five shortlisted teams were invited to submit detailed proposals. Ghotmeh’s firm, known for its distinctive ‘archaeological’ approach to design, was unanimously chosen as the winner by a distinguished judging panel.
George Osborne, Chairman of the British Museum and Chair of the Judging Panel expressed his confidence in Ghotmeh’s ability to shape the future of the institution. “We set out to find the best, and I believe we’ve found her. Lina Ghotmeh’s design ideas excited and enthused the trustees, and we know they will do the same for our millions of visitors,” he said.
Ghotmeh’s work is deeply influenced by historical context, likening each new project to an archaeological dig—uncovering the past to inform a sustainable and forward-looking design. Her commitment to natural materials and ecological consciousness aligns seamlessly with the Museum’s mission to preserve and celebrate two million years of human history.
Dr Nicholas Cullinan, Director of the British Museum, praised Ghotmeh’s “exceptional and materially sensitive architectural vision,” emphasising that her ‘archaeological’ approach reflects the intellectual transformation the Museum aims to achieve alongside its physical renovation.
Lebanese-born and Paris-based, Ghotmeh has garnered international acclaim for her innovative and human-centred architectural designs. Her portfolio includes the Hermès Leather Workshop in Louviers, the Estonian National Museum in Tartu, and the 22nd Serpentine Pavilion in London. She has received numerous accolades, including the Schelling Architecture Prize (2020) and nominations for the Mies van der Rohe Award (2017). Currently, she is also engaged in designing the AlUla Contemporary Art Museum in Saudi Arabia and the Bahrain Pavilion for Expo 2025.
Expressing her excitement for the project, Ghotmeh stated, “My team and I are thrilled to embark on this journey for the renovation of the Western Range of the British Museum. This competition has been an exciting process shaped by dialogue and multiple voices. We look forward to transforming this section of the Museum into an extraordinary space—a place of connections for the world and of the world.”
Ghotmeh and her interdisciplinary team, which includes artist Ali Cherri, conservation architects Purcell, and engineers from Arup, will now collaborate with the Museum to develop initial designs, expected to be finalised by mid-2026. This project is a cornerstone of the British Museum’s wider master plan, which seeks to modernise and reimagine the visitor experience while preserving the institution’s historical significance.
