Buttress has been appointed by the Dean and Chapter of Portsmouth Cathedral to lead the Capital Masterplanning process for a series of significant projects aimed at enhancing the Cathedral's estate and its role in the local and wider community.
The Cathedral, known as the “Cathedral of the Sea,” has long been a beacon of faith and heritage for both land and sea. This unique maritime legacy is deeply embedded in its fabric, whilst guiding the people of Portsmouth through life with faith and trust in God.
The comprehensive masterplan will focus on transforming the Cathedral’s estate in a way that celebrates its rich history while ensuring its relevance and accessibility for the future. Buttress will work closely with Cathedral leadership and stakeholders to develop clear and strategic plans for the Cathedral Precinct, Cathedral House, and surrounding areas, such as the Cathedral Green and Memorial Garden.
Buttress' masterplanning lead, Matt Burl said:
“Our approach will focus on enhancing the Cathedral’s estate, making it more accessible, sustainable, and flexible for a wide range of activities. We look forward to working closely with the Cathedral leadership, local stakeholders and the community to develop a masterplan that will not only celebrate the Cathedral’s past but also shape its vibrant future for generations to come."
Buttress' faith lead, Edward Kepczyck, said:
“This iconic building has long played a pivotal role in the spiritual and cultural life of the community. We are excited to be part of a project that honours its rich maritime heritage all the while ensuring its future relevance and anchoring it in its constant service to God."
Key elements of the masterplan will include:
Crafting an engaging and coherent narrative that tells the story of Portsmouth Cathedral's maritime connections, linking it to the city's seafaring past all the while ensuring it continues to be a beacon and safe haven, anchored in God.
Developing the Cathedral Precinct into an inviting, flexible space that serves a wide range of community needs, from eco-church activities to hospitality and leisure.
Creating multi-purpose spaces, such as a new Song School, meeting and community areas, and office spaces, to ensure the estate meets the functional and innovative needs of today’s Cathedral community.
Revitalising key entrances and improving the Cathedral's accessibility, sightlines, acoustics, and overall atmosphere to ensure a welcoming experience for all visitors.
Supporting the Cathedral’s sustainability goals, aiming for “Eco-Church Gold” status, reducing its carbon footprint, and enhancing its operational efficiency.
Buttress’ work will provide a phased approach, with clear guidelines and contingencies to unlock underutilised spaces and guide future development projects. As part of the process, Buttress will engage with a range of stakeholders including local residents, businesses, Historic England, and the Cathedral's Fabric Advisory Committee, to ensure that the masterplan is both sensitive to the continued conservation of the Cathedral and ensure its alignment with its vision for a sustainable, inclusive future.
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.
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.