National Museum Cardiff - C.F. Møller Architects appointed concept architect for National Museum Cardiff project - C.F. Møller. Photo: Michael Kruse
National Museum Cardiff - C.F. Møller Architects appointed concept architect for National Museum Cardiff project - C.F. Møller. Photo: Michael Kruse
30.1.2026

C.F. Møller Architects appointed concept architect for National Museum Cardiff project

C.F. Møller Architects has been appointed concept architect for the proposed redevelopment of National Museum Cardiff in Wales.

 

The appointment follows a competitive procurement process led by Amgueddfa Cymru and marks the beginning of an early-stage collaboration to explore options for the future development of the museum as it approaches its centenary in 2027.


The project is currently at an early phase, and no design proposals can be shared at this stage. The appointment focuses on establishing a strong and robust architectural concept, strategic framework, and shared vision to support the preparation of a business case and inform future decision-making.


Chief Executive of Amgueddfa Cymru, Jane Richardson said:
‘National Museum Cardiff is an architectural gem, but maintaining a historic building is an ongoing challenge. As the Museum approaches its centenary, we want to use the opportunity of needing to carry out essential maintenance works to go further and enhance the experience for our visitors, ensuring it is fit for purpose for the next 100 years. Our ambition is to create a distinctively Welsh National Museum and Gallery with inspiring, modern, sustainable and accessible spaces for everyone to enjoy.
‘These are ambitious plans, but we believe this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a vibrant cultural destination in Cardiff that drives economic growth and connects us to the world through stories and collaborations that matter locally and globally.’

Michael Kruse, partner & architect, C.F. Møller Architects - C.F. Møller Architects appointed concept architect for National Museum Cardiff project - C.F. Møller. Photo: Mew

C.F. Møller Architects is part of a multidisciplinary design team led by AHR Architects. Together, the design team will work collaboratively with the client to support the development of a preferred way forward. The work will involve analysis, stakeholder engagement, and dialogue with museum staff, users, and the wider community, alongside careful consideration of the building’s heritage value and long-term operational needs.
The initial phase will support the preparation of a business case for submission to the Welsh Government and help ensure that essential maintenance and enabling works are coordinated with a broader, long-term perspective for the museum.


Michael Kruse, Partner and Architect, C.F. Møller Architects, said:
“We look forward to working with Amgueddfa Cymru and the wider project team to support the National Museum Cardiff as it approaches its centenary and explores how the building can continue to evolve into the future. Through a sustainable and respectful approach to reuse, the process will focus on understanding the museum’s potential as a place that brings people, art and science together, while celebrating Welsh culture and identity.”
C.F. Møller Architects brings extensive experience in working with cultural institutions and historic buildings, where architecture is developed as a flexible and durable framework that can support evolving uses over time. The assignment reflects the practice’s approach to long-term, value-driven architecture developed through collaboration, research, and careful stewardship.


Further details will be shared as the project progresses and subject to funding and approvals.

National Museum Cardiff - C.F. Møller Architects appointed concept architect for National Museum Cardiff project - C.F. Møller. Photo: Michael Kruse

About National Museum Cardiff
National Museum Cardiff is one of Wales’ leading cultural institutions and forms part of Amgueddfa Cymru’s family of national museums. Home to nationally and internationally significant collections spanning art, natural history and geology, the museum plays a central role in telling Wales’ story and engaging diverse audiences. Approaching its centenary in 2027, the Grade I listed building is both an architectural landmark and an important public destination in the heart of Cardiff.


National Museum Cardiff is widely considered one of Britain's finest examples of early 20th-century civic architecture. A Grade I listed building, it is part of an exceptionally fine group of public buildings in Cathays Park, Cardiff's civic centre.


The architecture
The museum was designed by London-based architects Arnold Dunbar Smith and Cecil Brewer. Construction began in 1912 but was significantly delayed by the First World War; it opened to the public in 1922 and was officially inaugurated in 1927. The building is a prime example of Edwardian Baroque (or Edwardian civic) architecture, characterised by a grand portico, monumental columns, and a majestic central dome. Like most buildings in Cathays Park, the museum is primarily constructed from Portland stone. The entrance hall is regarded as one of the most sophisticated public interiors in Wales, featuring high ceilings, large windows, and neoclassical detailing.

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