Image: Pace Gallery will open at 6 Burlington Gardens

The Royal Academy of Arts (RA) has announced that New York, US-based Pace Gallery is to open a new London exhibition space within a part of 6 Burlington Gardens' west wing.

It follows a competitive tendering process organised by the academy, which was designed to ensure the historic building continues to offer an "ongoing arts programme".

RA is currently working on plans for art and architecture exhibitions, as well as a renovation project that will upgrade gallery spaces and provide a new 300-seat auditorium.

The reuse of 6 Burlington Gardens - adjacent to the academy's main site - forms part of its bid to expand its public programme, with full details to be announced in due course.

RA president Christopher Le Brun said: "6 Burlington Gardens provides a huge opportunity for the Royal Academy to expand its public programme and to present contemporary art of the highest level.

"Pace is uniquely placed to complement our programme which will reach a broader audience and benefit the public, our Friends and students of the Royal Academy Schools."

Pace Gallery president Marc Glimcher added: "We are thrilled to be establishing a major presence for Pace in London. We're particularly delighted to make our new home alongside such an important and prestigious institution."

RA was recently awarded a initial Heritage Lottery Fund support for a £12.7m grant, which will go towards bringing Burlington House and Burlington Gardens into one academy site.

The Keeper's House, part of the east wing of Burlington House, is also set to benefit from a £5.7m renovation project designed by David Chipperfield Architects.

Details: www.royalacademy.org.uk (Royal Academy of Arts)

Details: www.thepacegallery.com (Pace Gallery)

Image: Sir James