The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Liverpool has appointed Buttress Architects to develop Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral's new Welcome Centre - the first of a sequence of projects to emerge from the ongoing masterplanning work for the cathedral. The new facility will replace the former visitor centre which has been closed to visitors as a result of water ingress, providing 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 II* listed cathedral is 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.
Buttress was initially appointed to undertake the first ever Quinquennial Inspection on the building to gain a deeper understanding of the condition of the building fabric. This was followed by the 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 help redefine the visitor journey, enhancing the arrival experience while seamlessly connecting new and previously underused spaces.
Buttress are architects and heritage consultants for the project offering advice as part of a wider team of consultants including Clancy Group, DFC, Enabl, Focus, Hive, IWSA, Max Fordham, Planit, Safer Sphere and Sutcliffe.
Matthew Burl, Buttress director, commented:
“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, Cathedral Dean, commented:
"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."
Photography credits
Gavin Stewart
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.
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.