The new bookshop is one of the first steps of a continuing programme of improvements at the Tate Gallery.

The brief calls for an enlarged bookshop facility to stock art books, Tate Gallery publications, postcards, prints, gifts and merchandise. The relocated bookshop occupies a former gallery and ante room space, being directly accessible from the front rotunda main circulation area.

The principle space is organised in bays containing interchangeable display for books and postcards, between tall cabinets for postcards and stocks which also contain fancoil coolers and background display lighting. Display cases and cash points are dispersed throughout the space, with the main sales counter anchoring an open mezzanine space for staff use.

The entire fitting out is constructed of American oak veneer with a complementary oak strip floor and oak wall linings. The wall lining also creates an upper datum to the installation, and provides a frieze for poster display.

Specially commissioned hanging banners are designed by Patrick Heron which create visual axes through the bookshop spaces.