Member Article

New Central London purpose-built art facility for logistics company

Crown Fine Art is set to unveil a new purpose-built facility close to Central London that not only provides secure storage but also acts as a gallery extension for clients who want to sell their art.

The international fine arts logistics company, which provides services to museums, galleries, auction houses and collectors across the world, has always been renowned for keeping art and artefacts safe, both in storage and in transit. Now it is investing heavily in new facilities.

Art Central, located just five minutes from Central London, is due to open this summer and, as well as having ‘bonded’ customs status will feature modern extras that could change the face of art storage. These include private client rooms, viewing rooms, client work areas, meeting rooms and a photography room.

The emphasis will not only be on keeping art safe and secure – thanks to full temperature and humidity control, a unique 4 hour fire rated Durasteel wall offering ultimate protection and inside secure loading and managed secure storage– but on providing a place where art can be viewed and sold.

David Preston, General Manager at Crown Fine Art, said: “It is an exciting concept that is already being very well received. We believe clients will increasingly see our warehouse not just as somewhere to store art but as a ‘gallery extension’ - somewhere where they can invite potential buyers to come and view and buy art.

“The location is key, close to Overground and Underground stations and convenient for Battersea, Kensington and Chelsea as well as the gallery districts of Mayfair and St James’s. The art handling sector has needed a facility like this for a long time and our patience in waiting for a suitable location has really paid off. We believe Art Central provides the best and most convenient services in the sector and will be a real boost for our clients.”

Art Central will be based in Union Road, London SW4, and is expected to open during the summer.

David added: “It’s a big moment for Crown Fine Art but we are not resting on our laurels. We have many more exciting and innovative products and services being launched soon. This is a very important time in the UK art handling sector.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Crown Fine Art .