This vast area has been 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 include a new reception desk with supporting back office area, seating areas, and orientation panels. A new visitor operated lift has been installed in the existing lift shaft. The previous lift was slow and had to be operated by a member of staff causing much frustration to visitors.