New look for Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna in Rome.

Renovations at the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna (GNAM) in Rome are nearing completion following a re-evaluation of the gallery's spaces by its new director Cristiana Collu.

The Sardinian former head of MART (Museo d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea di Trento e Rovereto) has wasted no time in setting out her vision for GNAM since her arrival in the capital one year ago. Collu describes the changes to the museum as "archaeological", relating to "rediscovering its architecture through light and space."

The renovation work, which is scheduled for completion on 10 October, emphasises hospitality and has the backing of culture minister Dario Franceschini. The mirrored-glass floor by Alfredo Pirri in the central Sala delle Colonne has been replaced with a thick carpet, with couches and tables . The area will be open to members the public who can enjoy a coffee there even if they don't visit the museum itself.

The renovations by Spanish designer Martì Guixé include changes to the bookshop and opening up the gardens too.

Since Collu's arrival GNAM has also updated its logo and launched a fresh modern-looking website.

The gallery's current exhibition, The Lasting: L'intervallo e la durata, runs until 29 January.