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The new extension at London’s Tate Modern art gallery opens its doors to the public on June 17, 2016. Designed by Herzog & de Meuron, the Tate Modern Switch House is located on the site of the former power station – from which its name is inspired.

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The Switch House increases the size of Tate Modern by 60 per cent, and comprises galleries, a panoramic viewing terrace, and the first permanent spaces for live art in old oil tanks.

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Visitors can stop for a drink at a bar that overlooks a busy new public square to the south of the gallery, while a new restaurant on level 9 affords sweeping views of the city. A series of small landings and enclaves (above) fan out from a sculptural staircase – providing visitors with designated areas where they can stop to discuss or reflect.

An adapted version first appeared in Silverkris.

Photos: Iwan Baan

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