The architects who do this kind of work seldom get much in the way of recognition. Smirke rules the roost here, with a nod to Foster next door. Conservation, restoration and upgrading work is anything but glamorous, but here it looks as if it has been done with skill and modesty. The people at HOK know that their name will not spring to people's lips as they enter the building. Nobody will ask: "Who restored this, then?" Which, in a way, is exactly as things should be. They didn't do it, after all. Smirke did.

The Enlightenment Gallery marks the fact that the British Museum is now 250 years old. The BM has to think for the long term. And if part of that thinking is going back to its roots, analyzing what it is all meant to be about, and presenting us with the results in the form of a sumptuously austere and gloriously restored new gallery, well - that is self-awareness of the best kind. Just one concession to modern museum practice is allowed in here: in case you're worried you won't understand what it's all about, you can get an audio guide. In 1827, that would have meant another human being. Probably one just back from the Grand Tour.