Artistic Impressions

Internally the extension boasts a fire rated screen supplied by Baydale Architectural Systems Ltd using specialist Pilkington Pyrostop™ glass from Pilkington Building Products – UK.

The design of the building allows maximum light ingress, creating a lightshow of colours from the sunlight passing through the high windows of the structure and the clear multi-laminate formulation of the Pilkington Pyrostop™ glass complements the ambience by providing both a functional and an aesthetic alternative to solid wall construction. Pilkington Pyrostop™ glass provides one hour fire integrity and one hour fire insulation forming an opaque barrier against heat, smoke and flames, an essential requirement in a public space where numerous invaluable paintings are exhibited.

The new wing is scheduled to host international shows as well as freeing up space for an extended display of the gallery’s permanent collection of masterpieces. Altogether, there will be over 700 paintings and 60 sculptures exhibited in the Gallery complex. Recent modifications to visitor facilities include a gallery shop, restaurants and a virtual reality gallery. The entire project cost Euros 33 million and was funded from various sources including the European Regional Development Fund, the Irish Government and the National Gallery of Ireland Foundation.

The use of Pilkington Pyrostop™ glass assists in enhancing the interior design of the impressive Millennium Wing, and demonstrates its versatility in providing fire resistance combined with clear visual accessibility in keeping with the architect’s impression of light and space.