The Sainsbury Centre is an art gallery and museum located on the campus of the University of East Anglia, Norwich, England. The building, which contains a collection of world art, was one of the first major public buildings to be designed by the architects Norman Foster and Wendy Cheesman, completed in 1978. The building became grade II* listed in December 2012.
The Sainsbury Centre building was opened in 1978. It was designed between 1974 and 1976 by the then relatively unknown architect Norman Foster (now Lord Foster). According to Chris Abel, the building exemplifies Foster's early work of "a regular structure embracing all functions within a single, flexible enclosure, or 'universal space'" where "the design is all about allowing for change, internally and externally." The Sainsbury Centre also demonstrates Foster's characteristic work methods of "design development", or "integrated design". It is situated on the western edge of the university's campus, beside the River Yare, and also houses the School of World Art Studies and Museology. Foster said of the building "A building is only as good as its client and the architecture of the Sainsbury Centre is inseparable from the enlightenment and the driving force of the Sainsburys themselves and the support of the University of East Anglia."
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Elise Korolev | Feb 12, 20188.0
Beautiful gallery in the campus of the university. Good choice of food and large area to sit with a coffee, salad or warm meal. The dedicated car park is far too small though, and we had to go round 3 times until someone left. Since this is the only authorised parking area, it should really be much bigger. The permanent exhibition is very interesting and there are always temporary ones of great value too.
Kimberly Moore | Jan 11, 20188.0
They had an Art Nouveau exhibition when we visited which I loved. the photographic portraits were wonderful too. The actual building is a work of art itself. Do visit.
Canan Marasligil | Oct 23, 201710
This is one of the most beautiful art galleries I have ever been to. The permanent collection is beautifully curated and presented, with no hierarchy between art works - all periods, geographical origins, types of art... are all presented on an equal level, with no explanatory texts, it leaves the viewer to fully enjoy the artworks through their own knowledge, emotions, perspectives... It is so refreshing, and also stunning, moving, beautiful.
Marian Cowdrey | Feb 10, 201810
I went to the Fabergé exhibition, we were in St Petersburg in August of last year so memories are still fresh of the Fabergé museum there. This collection was equally fascinating and impressive. The accompanying panels were very interesting and informative. I bought the book, 'Fabergé from St Petersburg to Sandringham' which contains a great deal more detail. The food in the café is good and there is ample parking at the weekend. A great day out!
Dennis Gound | Jan 30, 201810
A fascinating exhibit of ethnic and contemporary art. The presentation of special exhibits is excellent.
Peter Swales | Apr 6, 201810
A stunning mix of art from all periods and continents set out without any formality within an open plan 1978 Norman Foster building. Unmissable for anyone interested in World cultures. Good food/coffee options. At the rail station exit, head for the bus stop on the right. The 25 takes around 40 mins plus a 5 min walk. The grounds offer some nice walking/picnicking.
Hannah Moss | May 8, 201810
Interesting pieces and varied exhibitions. I have been several times over the years, including when the Queen visited the Fiji exhibit. I have taken my class here also and they love seeing the art and the staff have always been very accomodating and great at engaging the children with fun activities. The children also love the fact that the building was in a Marvel Avengers film!
Dee Noble | May 6, 201810
Great gallery even though we visit several times per year we never tire of it. Refreshing cafe with lovely location.
Linda Shaw | Apr 11, 201810
Fabulous museum with visiting, short running exhibitions and lectures from some of the exhibitors. Nice lunch in restaurant overlooking greenery and Henry Moore sculpture.
Violet Zirnstein | May 11, 20188.0
Fortunately I can either walk or catch the number 25 bus, otherwise dedicated car park is minimal. Cafe is lovely as it looks out over the park. The free exhibition is really great and varied, covering different artists and ages. The shop has a good selection of gifts. Definitely a must to Visit, I've been numerous times.
Lindsay Rosser | Jul 10, 201810
Beautifully displayed eclectic colleçtion. Paintings not to my taste, a bit severe. Excellent childrens books in the shop.
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