Buttress appointed to major projects at Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King in Liverpool

Buttress has been appointed by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Liverpool to a pivotal role in developing a number of projects that enhance and safeguard the future of the iconic cathedral.

External photograph of a teepee shaped church made out of grey concrete. On the top half of the building there is a circular crown lantern made from coloured glass and finished with tall spires.

Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral.

Buttress has been appointed by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Liverpool to a pivotal role in developing a number of projects that enhance and safeguard the future of the iconic Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King in Liverpool.

The cathedral was designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd, and completed in 1967.

Designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd and completed in 1967, the unique circular form and stained-glass lantern of the grade II* listed cathedral are synonymous with Liverpool’s skyline. It is the largest Catholic cathedral in England and is considered one of the world's most significant post-war buildings.

Our initial phase of work includes a Quinquennial Inspection, the first ever undertaken on the cathedral, to understand the condition and issues faced by the building. The deep understanding gained of the condition of the building fabric will be used to inform a forward conservation and maintenance strategy.

“Conservation architecture does not stand still and we are continually adding to our understanding and skills in working with modern architectural forms, materials and construction. Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral is a great exemplar of the fact that the need to conserve buildings isn’t necessarily defined by age.”

Edward Kepczyk, Buttress

In addition, Buttress has also been commissioned to undertake a strategic masterplan which looks to create a holistic vision for the cathedral, addressing their key priorities to enhance the visitor experience, utilise space better, improve the cathedral’s carbon footprint and become more financially sustainable. The strategic masterplan will identify a series of new projects that will help guide its development and renewal.

“The Metropolitan Cathedral is iconic; it is a privilege to work with the Archdiocese to collaboratively help envisage its future. Our masterplan reflects the cathedral’s standing in the city and the communities it serves. It articulates the vision and provides a framework for conservation and renewal, sensitively building on the way the cathedral works as a place of worship, and stands as a landmark for all types of visitors. Side by side Buttress’ masterplan and QI will help us to understand the building’s present and shape its future, protecting its significance through that process.”

Matt Burl, Buttress

Image credit:

Gavin Stewart

Talk to the team

Associate Director

Edward Kepczyk

Edward specialises in the conservation, informed repair, and creative reuse of secular and ecclesiastical buildings, including some of the country’s most significant historic sites.

Director

Matthew Burl

Matthew is an architect and director at Buttress who has led the successful design and delivery of new build and refurbishment projects across a range of cultural, academic and community-led sectors, both regionally and internationally.

He also coordinates the practice's sustainability activities and has led Buttress' B Corp journey helping the company achieve certification at the end of 2022.