Buttress lands Liverpool cathedral work
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Liverpool has appointed the architect to design Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral’s new welcome centre, the first of a series of projects to emerge from ongoing masterplanning work for the landmark.
The new facility will replace the cathedral’s former visitor centre, which has been closed to visitors as a result of water ingress.
Buttress’ brief is to provide a revitalised and resilient space that enhances the visitor experience and supports the cathedral’s ongoing role as a place of faith, heritage, and community.
Designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd and completed in 1967, the grade two*-listed building is the largest Catholic cathedral in England and remains instantly recognisable as a major Liverpool building.
Buttress was initially appointed to undertake a “quinquennial inspection” on the building to gain a deeper understanding of the condition of the building fabric. This was followed by strategic masterplan work, addressing key priorities, including the improvement of the entire visitor experience and the cathedral’s carbon footprint.
The welcome centre designs will, the firm said, help redefine the visitor journey, enhancing the arrival experience while seamlessly connecting new and previously underused spaces.
Buttress is working with a professional team also featuring Clancy, DFC, Enabl, Focus, Hive, IWSA, Max Fordham, Planit, Safer Sphere and Sutcliffe.
Matthew Burl, Buttress director, said: “This project marks an important step forward in revitalising the visitor experience of the cathedral. As a landmark of faith and community, the cathedral holds deep spiritual, cultural and architectural significance.
“Our approach is one of careful renewal, preserving what makes the building special while introducing thoughtful interventions that support its role as a living, dynamic centre of faith and community.”
Monsignor Anthony O’Brien, the cathedral’s dean, said: “We’re looking forward to the next stage of the project. The cathedral is a place of welcome for all, and this project will help us enhance that even further. We’re pleased to be working with Buttress to bring these plans to life.”
