Former architect Andersons described it as intrusive, "colliding" with Vernon's sandstone façade and relegating his portico to a ceremonial entrance.[18] Former Prime Minister Paul Keating criticised proposals to significantly develop the outdoor spaces near the gallery for use as private venues as more about money than art.[19] The foundation and friends of the neighbouring Royal Botanic Garden, objected to the loss of green space and parkland in the Domain associated with the project, requested a review and negotiated with the gallery about site lines, transport, logistics and alignment of building structures.[20][21]