The Sainsbury Wing built by Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates, in association with Sheppard Robson Architects in 1991 on the only unbuilt site on London's Trafalger Square connects to and reflects the original National Gallery (built by William Wilkins in 1838) while maintaining its own contemporary identity. Elements from the original facade are replicated and used alongside contrasting elements to create innovative and unexpected rhythms and harmonies. Inside, the Wing features flexible galleries, conference rooms, a restaurant, a 350-seat lecture theater, an enlarged museum shop, and an interactive information center.
VSBA placed first in an international invited competition for design of the Sainsbury Wing after a previous design was abandoned at the urging of the Prince of Wales.