The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum in Jordan Well, Coventry, has reopened after a £20m three-phased redevelopment.

The 6,600sq m, 1960s venue – redesigned by architect Pringle Richards Sharatt – now features a 500sq m glass-covered courtyard, which will provide access to new permanent and temporary exhibition galleries on two levels.

There is also a History Centre, which will house archives documenting almost 800 years of the city's history, with learning spaces as well as a studio for performances and events.

The first phase of the development, which was already open, features creative media studios, exhibition space, education facilities, a shop and a café.

Councillor Andy Matchet, the lord mayor of Coventry, said: “The opening of the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum is a key step forward in the on-going renaissance of the city.

“Culture plays a very important role in any city, particularly one that will be undergoing a massive transformation over the coming years. An iconic building such as the new Herbert will also raise the city's cultural profile and identity.

“We want the new building to act as a centre of culture in the city; one which, local residents can use as a base for creativity and exhibiting their talents; and, one that visitors to Coventry can explore and learn more about the wonderful history of Coventry.”

The Heritage Lottery Fund awarded a £1,9m grant in 2004 for the Coventry History Centre and Galleries, followed by a £2.88m for phase three of the refurbishment.

Funding also came from Coventry City Council (£9.29), the European Regional Development Fund (£3.53m), the DCMS (£342,000), Advantage West Midlands (£196,000), English Heritage (£20,000) and the Museum, Libraries and Archive Council (£178,000).

John Pringle, from Pringle Richards Sharratt, said: “The courtyard roof was inspired by Basil Spence’s Cathedral of St Michael, which was built next to the ruined medieval Cathedral Church of St Michael after it was partly destroyed in World War Two. We are thrilled with the final results.”