This rebuild and strengthening of Nelson’s main art gallery is a triumph. Two existing buildings have been retained and featured in the new layout. The gallery and entrance floor levels have been altered to provide a common floor level that greatly improves access and flow. A central foyer (or ‘laneway’) links the old and new areas and features a series of carved Po. The café space provides a visual and physical link to adjacent Queens Gardens. The much-needed and improved staff work and storage areas function well. A restrained selection of cladding to the additions ensures they do not dominate. The new landscaping enables the public access around the building in order to view sculpture.