The existing Gulbenkian Hall forms part of the Royal College of Art building on Kensington Gore, and provided a general purpose hall.

The brief for its conversation, called for flexible spaces for gallery, exhibition and teaching purposes.

The exhibition levels are visually connected by a double height space, for large displays. A system of movable screens subdivides the space and increases the hanging surfaces. Additionally there is an audio visual theatre seating 50.

The galleries are linked by two straight flight staircases, access being organised to enable the exhibitions to run independently of College activities.

The gallery is designed environmentally to the highest standard for international exhibitions, as specified by the Museums and Galleries Commission.

Finishes are white oak strip floors, with white painted plywood wall linings and plastered soffits. Stairs are pre-cast terrazzo with stainless steel handrails.