Switzerland-based Herzog & de Meuron has been selected to design the new Vancouver Art Gallery.

The new museum building will be the first project in Canada for the Pritzker Prize winning firm. At approximately 300,000 square feet, the new gallery will provide more than double the space of the current facility to support the museum’s collections, exhibitions and programs, which have increased exponentially over the past decade.

“Our new gallery will be a vital and dynamic resource for Vancouver, one that engages and welcomes artists and visitors from the region and from around the world,” says gallery director Kathleen S. Bartels. “Throughout the selection process, Herzog & de Meuron demonstrated a deep commitment to and respect for the rich history and unique spirit of the gallery, our community, and our surrounding natural and urban environment. Our new purpose-built home will embrace the rich diversity of our community and serve as a nexus for cross-cultural dialogue and exchange.”

The Government of British Columbia has shown their support for the project by donating $50 million to the expansion.The gallery plans to unveil conceptual designs for the new building in early 2015.