Selldorf Architects and Studios Architecture to Lead Louvre Renovation

New York-based Selldorf Architects, in collaboration with Paris's Studios Architecture, has won the competition to undertake the most significant renovation of the Musée du Louvre in 35 years. The announcement was made by French Minister of Culture Catherine Pégard, signaling a major transformation for one of the world's most visited museums. The winning proposal includes the creation of new subterranean entrances, a redesigned moat area, and a dedicated exhibition space for Leonardo da Vinci's iconic Mona Lisa.

This extensive project, named the Louvre New Renaissance, marks the largest intervention at the museum since I.M. Pei's iconic glass pyramid was added in 1989. The renovation aims to enhance the visitor experience, streamline pathways, and integrate new green spaces within the historic context of the Louvre.

Competition and Selection

The joint proposal from Selldorf Architects and Studios Architecture was selected from a competitive shortlist of five international submissions. Other notable firms competing included London's AL_A with Paris's NC Nathalie Crinière, Japanese studio Sou Fujimoto Architects, US firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro with French firm Architecturestudio, and Japanese studio SANAA with French studio Dubuisson Architecture.

The Musée du Louvre commended the winning team for the "quality of its architectural proposal and its integration into the heritage, urban, and landscape context." The jury specifically highlighted how the project addresses "the challenges of visitor experience, clear pathways, simplicity, and greenery, all while taking relevant security considerations into account."

Key elements of the winning design focus on the eastern block of the museum, known as the Colonnade, and its adjacent moat. The plan introduces a pair of symmetrical subterranean entrances within the moat, accessed by ramps that extend above the existing moat before recessing into the walls. These new entry points are slated to house cafes and bookshops, enhancing visitor amenities. The moat itself will be transformed into a garden, designed by BASE Landscape Architecture, adding a significant green space to the museum's immediate surroundings.

Key facts:

• Project Title: Louvre New Renaissance
• Lead Architects: Selldorf Architects (New York), Studios Architecture (Paris)
• Scope: New subterranean entrances, dedicated Mona Lisa exhibition, moat garden, gallery renovations
• Significance: Largest renovation of Musée du Louvre in 35 years

Visitor Experience and Internal Reconfiguration

Beyond the new entrances, the renovation includes a comprehensive overhaul of the internal gallery spaces to meet modern standards. A key component of the interior work is the creation of a dedicated exhibition space for the Mona Lisa, addressing the high visitor traffic and security needs associated with the artwork, particularly in light of recent incidents.

The project also aims to improve overall circulation and visitor flow throughout the museum, which has seen increasing visitor numbers over the years. The emphasis on "clear pathways" and "simplicity" aligns with contemporary museum design principles that prioritize accessibility and intuitive navigation for diverse audiences.

Consultation and Context

The renovation project has not been without its challenges. There was notable resistance from some Musée du Louvre staff last year, who went on strike advocating for increased building maintenance over extensive new construction. In response, the museum has committed to a thorough consultation process with all stakeholders.

A period of "close dialogue" will commence in the coming months involving the Louvre's staff, the selected design team, and other critical partners including the City of Paris and state heritage services. This collaborative approach underscores the sensitivity of working within such a historically significant site and the importance of addressing the concerns of those who operate the museum daily.

Selldorf Architects, led by Annabelle Selldorf, brings extensive experience in museum renovations globally. The firm has recently completed significant projects such as the renovation of the National Gallery's Sainsbury Wing in London and The Frick Collection in New York, demonstrating their expertise in integrating contemporary design within historic cultural institutions. Studios Architecture, with its Paris base, adds local insight and expertise to the collaboration.

This project represents a critical moment for the Musée du Louvre, balancing the demands of modern visitor experience and infrastructure with the preservation of its unparalleled heritage. The outcome will be closely watched by the architectural community and the public alike, as it redefines how one of the world's most cherished cultural landmarks engages with its visitors and its urban environment.

Source: Dezeen: https://www.dezeen.com/2026/05/19/louvre-renovation-entrances-selldorf-architects-studios-architecture-winner/