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The large-scale project includes the renovation of galleries in the museum's original building, designed by Charles Cockerell and opened in 1845, and the addition of a new building designed by Rich Mather Architects. The new facility, opening to the public on Nov. 7, will double the museum's display space, with 39 new galleries including four temporary exhibition galleries, as well as a new education center and conservation studios.

Said Jenny Abramsky, chair of the Heritage Lottery Fund, which provided about a quarter of the project's funding, or £15 million ($24.5 million), "The Ashmolean is like a dear old friend to the people of Oxfordshire - a familiar landmark in the heart of academia. Now fully refurbished, this wonderful building has maintained its original charm but also taken on a fresh, new energy and openness."

A teaching and research department of Oxford, the Ashmolean produces research and publications in the fields of art history, history, archeology, numismatics, and Oriental studies.