This vast area will be reconfigured to recreate a welcoming space that sustains the sense of wonder and anticipation felt on approaching the building from the outside whilst helping focus on what The Bowes Museum has to offer once inside. Improvements will include a new reception desk with supporting back office area, seating areas, and orientation panels. A new visitor operated lift will be installed in the existing lift shaft. The current lift is slow and must be operated by a member of staff and causes much frustration to visitors. All this work will be carried out in an accessible manner, taking full account of the needs of all types of visitors.