Alex McLennan

An upgrade to the Serpentine’s climatic controls, other technology and security was needed to ensure the Gallery could carry on showing world-class art and, in particular, museum-quality retrospectives such as those of Nancy Spero and Lygia Pape in recent years. This work also enabled the Serpentine to benefit from the Government Indemnity Scheme, saving on future insurance expenditure and aiding the facilitation of high-quality loans. The existing security provision was improved through the inclusion of new shutters, CCTV and an upgrade to the existing security system.

We worked closely with Julia Peyton Jones , the Director and the Serpentine gallery team to put together a scope of works for the full refurbishment of the gallery. Through the experience of managing and refurbishing the Whitechapel Art Gallery and understanding the requirements of public gallery spaces we formulated an appropriate brief and programme together.

This was delivered within a tight three-month programme whilst the offices were operating as usual.

Services provided

The scope of project management services included: planning, design and cost processes; advising on statutory authorities, programme management, construction tenders, procurement and project delivery; reporting to the Serpentine and monitoring progress of site works against agreed milestones throughout with particular focus on variations, work sequencing and quality.  As project managers we assisted in the successful reporting of the key deliverables of the ACE grant.

McLennan were invaluable in helping us prioritise what we could achieve within a limited timescale.  They kept us on track and made sure we achieved our deadline. 

Jackie McNerney, Former Chief Operating Officer, Serpentine Gallery