Wellcome Collection is setting out on a curious journey. Investing £17.5 million in a major development project, we will become bigger and bolder. Stirling Prize-winning architects Wilkinson Eyre will transform the venue, bringing new areas into public use and linking the layers of activity with a dramatic new spiral staircase. Through it all, we will be – more than ever – the free destination for the incurably curious.

Due for completion in summer 2014, the changes will bring more curiosities to provoke and enthral, more spaces to explore and investigate.

On level 1
• A new gallery showcasing year-long thematic projects, with changing displays and events.
• A new studio to provide a different space for our live programme, in particular activities co-produced with 14-to-19-year-olds.

On level 2
• The transformation of our iconic Reading Room into a new kind of participatory space – a room full of extraordinary and intriguing things to see, do and discuss.
• A new restaurant, perfect for relaxing and recharging with friends and colleagues.

On levels 2 and 3
• An expanded Rare Materials Room and new study spaces in the Wellcome Library, continuing to offer an outstanding environment for researchers.

Over the coming months we will invite you to enjoy activities in new spaces inside and outside Wellcome Collection. From September 2013 until February 2014 our temporary exhibitions and accompanying events will take place on level 5 – which will later house an exciting new research space called The Hub. We will also run offsite activities, including our Curiosity Roadshow on an adapted London bus, and a series of walks exploring medicine and architecture. Watch this space for more information.

Business as (un)usual

Building work will begin in early August and major works will continue until spring 2014. There may be some clutter and noise as we grow, but we will remain open as (un)usual, with an intriguing array of events and happenings along the way. We know your curiosity is incurable, but we still want to keep feeding it.

Find out more: your questions answered.

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Read our press release.