Recreating the City: Manchester Town Hall

RECREATING THE CITY Portfolio of Manchester Town Hall Task 2: @00603775, RCRR 2022-23

CONTENTS PAGE.

1. Manchester Town Hall 1.1 Introduction 1.2 Conservation Area and Urban Regeneration 1.3 Building Sections and Elevations

2.Condition Survey Report 2.1 Introduction and Report Survey 2.2 Condition Survey Table 2.3 Summary

3. Design Proposal 3.1 Introduction 3.2 Social, Environmental and Economical impacts 3.3 Precedent Studies 3.4 Sketches and Mood board 3.5 Plans and Sections 3.6 3D Visuals

4. Reference List

MANCHES

This portfolio will cover: • Analysis of Manchester Town Hall’s regeneration project with reference to the legal, societal and philosophical contraints through the understanding of the protection schemes involved, including listed building consent and conservation area consent.

•

Work with the agencies involved to produce a quality and coherent condition survey and assessment of Manchester Town Hall.

•

Create a contemporary design of a “Music Cafe” within Town Hall’s regeneration area that will adapt and transform the space to make it fit for new purposes, whilst also protecting and complimenting it’s heritage assets.

• Justification of the building proposal through the design solutions through application of relevant conservation philosophies.

STER TOWN HALL

1.1

INTRODUCTION. The Town Hall was erected as part of a competition for it’s design for a new Town Hall during 1868, in which Alfred Warehouse won by producing “the most economic, best planned, best lit, and best ventilated design” (Thompson, 1968, p. 1). It begun its construction shortly after the competition, in which it took 9 years to build and opened in 1877. It is an example of victorian neo-gothic architecture that was to house Manchester City Council and other local government departments due to becoming too small on King Street. Located in between two squares, Albert Square and St Peters Square which are within the heart of the city, and Town hall is regarded as “One of the most iconic landmarks in the city”

(Manchester City Council, 2022a, para.

1; Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019a).

Due to its association with prestigious architect Alfred Warehouse, it’s significant function as a government building, the highly decorative neo-gothic architecture and how the original design successfully met the needs of Manchester, it became of high significance to Manchester and gained its Grade 1 listing in 1952, declaring it of national importance.

In addition, the clock tower, spanning 280 feet high, houses the ‘Great Abel’ bell which is another significant feature to the building (Manchester City Council, 2022a; Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019a).

Figure 1 & 2 Note: Proposed design and elevation of Manchester Town Hall by Alfred Warehouse, 1876.

From: Alamy Stock Photo, 2015 & Manchester Confidential, 2016.

Figure 3

Figure 4

Note: Historical map of Manchester Town Hall, 1888-1913.

From: National Library of Scotland, 2022.

Note: Historical map of Manchester Town Hall, 1892-1914.

From: National Library of Scotland, 2022.

Waterhouse recognised the awkward triangular shape, so he established a plan whereby there was an inner courtyard space which allowed for maximised efficiency, floor space and circulation, as shown in figure 1. The historical maps shown in figure 3 & 4 dating between 1888-1914 both show the existing hallow centre of the triangular plan. Both maps and street names appear to be unchanged over time up to now, however the only major addition within this space is the construction of the Manchester Central Library in 1930, shortly after these dates (Purcell Archictecture Ltd, 2019a).

Minor changes have been made to the building over time to adapt to updating legislative frameworks, through the introduction of lifts, more staircases, and a central linked bridge across the courtyard in 1934-1938. It was later converted to a kitchen in the 1960s to adapt to the changing needs of the building.

Almost 150 years later the building remains intact, however there are issues with the decay of the fabric, and repair and renewal processes are necessary to maintain the building whilst also preserving its existing architecture and heritage assets (Purcell Architecture, Ltd, 2019a).

1.2

CONSERVATION AREA.

Figure 5 Note: Map of Albert Square Conservation Area and Manchester Town Hall located in red.

From: Manchester City Council, 2005.

Manchester City Council website states that the character and appearance of the Albert Square conservation area is of high significance to Manchester because it encompasses a collection of historic and civic buildings including Manchester Town Hall, which must be preserved for their heritage assets. Other buildings include “Central Public Library, Albert Memorial, and Manchester War Memorial” (Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019a, p. 36). In addition, presigious architect such as Alfred Waterhouse and the social developments of this are also

add to its historical interest. Due to the importance of this building in its Grade 1 listing which is the highest listing of significance, along with its location within the conservation area, it is of upmost importance that legal frameworks such as the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Heritage England and other frameworks not to “harm the appearance of the area” or have an “adverse effect on the building’s architectural or historical character” (MHCLG, 2012, p. 50; Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019a; Manchester City Council, 2022b).

1.3

URBAN REGENERATION. The manchester Town Hall closed in 2018 for a regeneration project for the restoration of the building. Research, surveys and investigations have been commencing since 2014, to understand the necessary steps and cautions to take for the protection and sympathetic upgrade. Purcell have been appointed as architects for the project, costing a total of £330 million on repairs and interventions.

The aim of the project is to update the building in line with the changing needs of it’s users. This includes more modernised access such as lifts and stairs in line with updated safety standards, updating wiring and plumbing systems to maximise the efficiency of the building in line with sustainability goals surrounding the built environment (Agenda 2030, RIBA sustainable outcomes). In addition, the repairs and remedial works to extend the longevity of the building will “transform the visitor experience” and extend the buildings life. The project is due to be completed in 2024. (Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2022, para. 2, para 1; RIBA Architecture, 2022).

Figure 6 Note: Photographs of new restorations to Manchester Town Hall.

From: Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2022.

1.3

Figure 7 Note: Diagram of the buildings new uses following RIBA Stage 3.

From: Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019b.

Key Plan

D

Room 615

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Room 615 FFL 93.960 m 12

Room 612

FFL 84.560 m 11

0m

Room 611

Room 612

FFL 72.885 m 10

0m

5m

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oom 412a

Room 614q

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FFL 54.660 m 04 FFL 51.915 m 03

0m

oom 6.9b

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Room 807

Room 103c

Room A9.2

Room 103a

Town Hall Services 101

Room 102

Room A6.8a

Room 19b

Room 606

Room 18b

Room 17b

Room 605

Room 137

Sculpture Hall A1.48

Room 16b(a)

Room 16b

Ante Room 241

Room 239a

Conference Hall 239

Room

Albert 802 Square Main Entrance A1.47

FFL 42.195 m 01

FFL 38.200 m 00

Lord Mayor's Parlour 242

Tower Room 243

Reception Room 244

Banqueting Room 245

FFL 47.060 m 02

Muniments 13b.a

Muniments 13b

Muniments 13b.b

Room 11b

Room 135

Room 136

Room 07b

Room 08b

Room 02b

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Room30/08/2019 02b(b)

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FFL 34.844 m -01

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Section D_D

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1 : 200

Lord Mayor's Parlour 242

Albert Square Main Entrance A1.47

Ante Room 241

Room 137

Sculpture Hall A1.48

Muniments 13b.a

Muniments 13b

Room 239a

Figure 8

Muniments 13b.b

Room 11b

Room 135

Room 07b

Room 08b

Room 02b(b)

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1:100

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SECTION D-D 1:200 @ A1 5000

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35 90

Notes: Drawings are based on survey data and may not accurately represent what is physically present.

Do not scale from this drawing. All dimensions are to be verified on site before proceeding with the work.

AllProject dimensions in millimeters otherwise. M60 2L1 Office,are Room 308, Townunless Hall, noted MANCHESTER Purcell shall be 097 notified +44 (0) 7970 432 in writing of any discrepancies. www.purcelluk.com Key Plan

Conference Hall 239

Room 136

DESCRIPTION

Scale Bars to be used as guidance only - refer to sheet size below

Note: Section D-D of Manchester Town Hall facing the Albert Square facade.

From: Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019b.

Tower Room 243

Level and Room numbers are as existing and not as proposed.

Updated for Stage 2 report First Issue

PROJECT STATUS

RIBA STAGE 4

CLIENT

MANCHESTER CITY COUNCIL

PROJECT

OUR TOWN HALL

DRAWING TITLE

EXISTING GA SECTION D_D

SIZE & SCALE

A1: 1 : 200

DRAWING STATUS

FOR REVIEW AND COMMENT

JOB NUMBER

236959

B

Room 615

FFL 93.960 m 12

1:100

mm

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Notes: Drawings are ba is physically pres Do not scale fro before proceedin All dimensions a Purcell shall be n Key Plan

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DRAWING NO.

REV

OTH-PUR-TH-ZZ-DWG-A-1004

02

B

© PURCELL 2012. PURCELL IS THE TRADING NAME OF PURCELL MILLER TRITTON LLP

Room 612

FFL 84.560 m 11

Room 611

FFL 72.885 m 10 Room A9.3

FFL 69.460 m 09

Room 807

FFL 64.910 m 08 Room A6.8a

FFL 60.800 m 07 FFL 59.235 m 06 FFL 56.470 m 05

Albert Square Corridor A6.65

Room 609

Centre Block Cooridor A5.46

Albert Square Corridor A4.37

Room 409

FFL 54.660 m 04 FFL 51.915 m 03

Grand Staircase (Lloyd Street) A2.75a

Tower Room 243

FFL 47.060 m 02

Room P-108

FFL 42.195 m 01

Room A2.88

FFL 38.200 m 00

Albert Square Main Entrance A1.47

Muniments 13b

Albert Street Courtyard AEX.15

Room 142

Room 50b

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Centre Block Corridor A1.81

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Room 50b.c

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Room Room 145.c 145f

Room 41b

Room A2.81

Room A2.82

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Room A2.66

Princess Street Corridor A5.45

Room 533

Centre Block Corridor A03.045

Room A3.41

Room Room Room 235 A2.71 236

Room 139

Room 12b

Room P-324

Great Hall A2.57

Grand Staircase A2.75_A

Albert Street Corridor A1.84 Albert Square Corridor A.065

Princess Street Corridor A3.38

WC Gents A03.039

Ladies WC A2.10_4

Ladies WC A2.10_5

Princess Street CorridorGents WC A1.79

Room 36b

1 : 200

Cooper Street Corridor A5.52

12/04/201 13/12/201

Room 216

Cooper Street Courtyard CY.3

Princess Street Corridor A5.45

Room 514

CLIENT

Room 118

PROJECT Room 31b.c

Note: Section B-B of Manchester Town Hall facing the Albert Square facade.

From: Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019b.

Cooper Street Corridor A5.52

Project Office, R +44 (0) 7970 09 www.purcelluk.c

Room Room 216.a 216a

PROJECT STAT

Princess Street Corridor A1.82

Financial Management A.133

DATE

Room 308

Room A3.46

Room 34b.c

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DRAWING TIT

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Room 533

30/08/201

01 -

Room 514

Princess Street Corridor A2.73

Figure 9

Section B_B

Centre Block Cooridor A5.46

02

ISSUE

Level and Room numbers are as existing and SIZE & SCALE not as proposed.

Updated for Stage 2 report DRAWING STA First Issue

SECTION B-B 1:200 @ A1 DESCRIPTION

JOB NUMBER

DRAWING NO

OTH-PUR

© PURCELL 2012. PUR

2.1

INTRODUCTION.

LEGAL FRAMEWORKS TO CONSIDER WHEN CREATING PROPOSED DESIGN:

SITE NAME: Manchester City Council Town Hall SITE LOCATION: Town Hall, Albert Square, Manchester, M2 5DB ARCHITECTURAL STYLE: Gothic Revival ARCHITECT NAME: Alfred Waterhouse DATE OF CONSTRUCTION: 1877 LISTING: Grade I listed building DESCRIPTION OF BUILDING CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIALS: • • • • • • • • • •

Soft red stone constructed in a triangular shape with a central courtyard.

3-storey building with 4 attic levels.

Approximately 14 million spinkwell bricks created the construction.

Development cost around £1 million The clock tower is 85m tall which feature a polish glass face and 10ft- long hand.

Brick frame faced with spinkwell sandstone Slate gable roof Stone rib vault ceilings and tall arched windows on the interior - classic of gothic revival architecture Terracota interior tiles and mosaic floors.

Combination of concrete and wrought-iron beams to create a fully fireproof structure.

(Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019a).

CONDITION SURVEY REPORT. SURVEY INTRODUCTION: The condition survey that is being performed on Manchester Town Hall is being undertaken by Emma Lee, a 3rd year student studying Interior Architecture at Salford University in 2022. This report will involve an inspection of the interior ground and first floor of the building, investigating three zones of interest such as the roof/ceiling, interior walls and other structural elements such as stairs and skirting boards. This is with the aim of understanding the areas which are in need of restoration with reference to the evidence used on the basis of this approach. This importance of conserving these heritage areas will be utilised when creating a proposed design of a music cafe on the ground floor.

DATE OF INSPECTION: 4th November 2022 around 10-11am (No previous inspections).

WEATHER ON INSPECTION: Dry with scattered clouds and wind levels of 8mph.

LIMITATIONS OF INSPECTION: There were some limitations to the inspection due to the buildings internal and external remedial works that have been undertaken from 2018 and are due to be completed in 2024. Due to this currently being a construction site, there was difficulty seeing the buildings full potential. Therefore, accessibility to areas for the purpose of safety led to minimal opportunity to look up close at building features, and some areas were off limits. When they were, some spaces were only accessibly through small and uncomfortable spaces that made it difficult to inspect some areas. In addition, most of the floor had been covered up for protection purposes, however this made it difficult to fully identify the space and complete a full inspection. It was also difficult to identify the condition of building features as to whether they were damaged at their original state, or if the surrounding construction work had to some extent effected some features.

With regards to the building exterior, there was not much option to visit the outer areas of the building because it had been covered up for the restoration. The courtyard was also covered completely with scaffholding works and in addition to the gloomy weather, there was no light entering into the space as a result of building works.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF BUILDING: Manchester Town Hall is a grade I listed building in 1952 due to association with prestigious architect Alfred Warehouse, in which the production of a new design for Town Hall was labelled innovative for the 19th century, with modernised features of ventilation, use of lighting, triangular layout and highly decorative design of neo-gothic architecture.

It was erected as part of a competition in 1968, due to the old town hall location on King Street becoming too small for the expanding council. It is now labelled of national importance and features on the National Heritage List for England. Therefore, careful consideration must be undertaken when undergoing any restoration or regenerative works.

CATEGORIES OF DESCRIPTION OF CONDITION:

CATEGORIES FOR PRIORITIES OF WORK:

(Advice taken from the Architectural Heritage Fund)

Good - Means structurally sound, weather tight and has already undergone repairs or does not need any.

Fair - Structurally sound however is in need of repair. In terms of decay, blockages or any erosion.

Poor - Building fabric is generally deteriorating and is in desperate need of repair. In terms of elevated levels of decay, erosion rot outbreaks, dampness or fire damage.

Bad - Structurally unstable, and has not yet been repaired.

In terms of severe damages and cracks, foundations shifting, rising damp, major fire damage, and wholly unhabitable.

A. Urgent works require immediate attention B. Requires attention within 12 months C. Requires attention within 18-24 months D. Requires attention within 5 years E. A desireable improvement with no timescale M. Routine maintenance

(Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019a).

CONDITION SURVE

2.2 Element 1.1 Zone 1: Roof/ Ceiling

Photo

Description Mould and rot as a result of excess moisture has leaked through, ruining the condition of the plastered ceiling.

Bad condition: In severe dam and rot, in need of repair as a health and safety risk to the space.

Minor areas of plaster and paint in the ribvault ceiling have failed.

Fair condition Only minor areas of the pla to have failed so only small a repaired.

Interior wall on the first floor has been effected by excess moisture and therefore damaged the plaster.

Poor condition: Plaster is ge rating as a result of mould f could pose cause health and to users.

Internal stone wall and sash windows on the ground floor of the staircase on th west façade.

Good condition: Structurall er tight and as mortar repa mance cleans have been

Solid load-bearing wall on the first floor south façade, the materialised of English bond red brick.

Fair condition: Structurally is in need of repair due to and brick, and eroded brick tored because this could po the structural integrity

(Ground floor, West façade facing Albert Square)

1.2 Zone 1: Roof/ Ceiling

Condition

(Ground floor, North façade facing Princess Street)

2.1 Zone 2: Interior Walls (First Floor, South façade facing Lloyd Street)

2.2 Zone 2: Interior Walls (Ground floor, West façade facing Albert Square

2.3 Zone 2: Interior Walls (First floor, south façade facing Lloyd Street)

3.2 Zone 3: Other structural elements

Staircase located on the west façade of the Good condition: Remains st building no damage, stairs or handr could pose a health and saf dents. has already under

(Ground floor, West façade facing Albert Square)

3.3 Zone 3: Other structural elements (Ground floor, West façade facing Albert Square)

Erosion has occurred on the masonry of torus section of the column.

Fair condition: Mortar is ero components

EY REPORT TABLE.

mage from mould s this could pose future users of

n: aster that seem areas need to be

Recommendations

Repair Required

Priority

Identify the cause of the leakage which could be roof damage, a faulty drainage system on the exterior, or improper ventilation and air circulation. Fix any deeper issues prior to performing an enhanced clean and replaster of the ceiling.

The identification of the deeper issue could pose larger, more time-consuming and more costly than the problem on the surface.

B. Requires attention within 12 months.

Where the plaster and paint appear sound, conduct pull test Conduction of a pull test could fail and on paint to assess likelihood of future failure. If the Pull test is likely to be more time consuming. fails, remove paint back to earliest sound layer and reinstate A plaster substrate containing gypsum the scheme. If pull test passes, either retain the current also does not stand well against mould scheme or remove modern paint and replace defective plas- and rot, so it is important to choose a ter substrate. lime substrate that is more breathable.

C. Requires attention within 18-24 months. However is already due to commence repairs

enerally deterio- Identify the cause of the leakage which is likely to be a probformation which lem with the drainage system on the exterior wall, or imd safety problems proper ventilation and air circulation. Fix any deeper issues prior to performing an enhanced clean, a replaster of the wall and a repaint. To treat mould prevention, air moisture must be kept to a minimum.

The identification of the deeper issue could pose larger, more time-consuming and more costly than the problem on the surface.

B: Requires attention within 12 months.

ly sound, weathairs and perforn undertaken.

The walls have experienced mortar repairs in which they have been colour matched and placed into small holes and cracks which are often a result of surface fixing.

A performance clean has also been undertaken in which clay poultice and defrass has been placed on areas with salt efflorescence.

Repairs to the mortar are usually costly, while extensive cleaning of the sash windows whereby invidivudal components are removed and repaired accordingly can be very tedious.

M. Routine Maintenance required.

sound however eroded mortar ks must be moniotentially damage of the wall.

Perform a more thorough investigation into the level of eroOnce performing a more thorough sion that has occurred in the bricks. In addition, the eroded investigation into the level of structural mortar may need repointing which could be costly, and the integrity of the wall and it proves to be mortar must be added in separate stages to allow it to fully under significant risk of collapse, undry through. derpinning the wall would be necessary for repair which can be time-consuming and costly on top of repairs on the mortar.

A. Urgent works require immediate attention.

tructurally sound, However, staircase does not comply with current health and rails missing that safety regulations, and therefore although repairs have been fety risk to resiundertaken to restore historical stairs as a heritage asset, rgone repairs. the fitting of additional staircases that do comply with regulations are essential to the health and safety of users.

oding and missing s.

Where indent repairs are carried out the size and shape of the repair and position of the dowels should avoid reliance on adhesives for retaining the stone.

It is evident that the stone is not structurally unstable and therefore only filling techniques need to be utilised.

No repairs required due to having undertaken cleaning procedures and restoration of cracks on slabs.

M. Routine Maintenance required.

Undertake a cleaning process to remove any stainings and fill any areas, or replace with matching components.

C. Requires attention within 18-24 months.

2.3

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS. Item Reference Summary of Recommendations A: Urgent works require immediate attention 2.3

Inspection of the structural integrity of the wall based on brick erosion

B: Requires attention within 12 months 1.1

Identification and monitoring of the deeper issue and repairal through replaster and repaint of ceiling

2.1

Identification and monitoring of the deeper issue and repairal through replaster an repainting of the wall

C: Requires attention within 18-24 months 1.2

Conduction of pull test to measure strength of the surface to assess likelihood of future reoccurance. Removal of modern paint and replace defective plaster substrate.

3.3

Reoppointing areas of mortar erosion and undertake a thorough cleaning process of the column.

M: Routine Maintenance 2.2

Has already undergone any reappointing repairs and extensive cleaning to the wall. Continue to monitor at yearly intervals.

3.2

Has already undergone any reappointing repairs and extensive cleaning ensure structural stability. Continue to monitor and complete risk assessments.

m a

3.1

THE DESIGN PROPOSAL: INTRODUCTION This next section of the portfolio will feature an exploration into the process and development of a new Music Cafe in the Town Hall, in connection with the new restoration works undertaken on the building by architects Purcell. This design will be located on the ground floor area and adjacent to the Albert Square entrance, as shown on figure 11. Purcell are proposing to insert a lift for disabled access, and demolish some internal walls adjacent to the space, labelled “finishing kitchen” and “circulation” (Figure 11). This will create an open plan kitchen area and these factors will be taken into consideration for the project.

etal and philosophical constraints when proposing a new design on a grade I listed building, and figure 10 shows the heritage significance of the ground floor which will help towards discovering the spaces opportunities and constraints.

As stated earlier in this portfolio, the Town Hall remains a significant heritage asset as per it’s grade I listing. Purcell have followed legal and regulatory guidelines and their collaborations with Historic England to ensure constructive conservation works retain the highest value of the building. The same principles apply to the design of the music cafe in effort to preserve its original state while also enhancing the space where possible. This will be explored further in section 3.2.

This proposal will also explore the legal, soci-

Scale B 1:100 1:200 1:500 1:1250

Heritage Significance Legend

Very High Heritage Significance Legend High

Room 103e

Room 103d

Room 103c

Room 103a

Room 103f

Room AS.8_3

Neutral Detrimental Staff Cafe 104

Room 105 Room 106

Room 107.b

Princess Street Spiral Staircase AS.2_1

Room 107.a Room 108

Room 107

Room 109

Room 102

Room 110 Room 108.a

Room 102.a

Room 111

Princess Street Corridor P-141 Princess Street Corridor A1.82

Town Hall Services A1.55

Room 102.b

Princess Street Corridor Store A1.28A

Central Block Corridor Staircase (Princess Street) AS.6_1

Albert Square Main Entrance A1.47

Room P-108

Room 142

Room 145

Room 143

Room Room 145f 145.c Room 145g

Room 142a

Room 138b

Room 111

Grand Staircase (Lloyd Street) A1.84c

Room 137.a

Room Room 145f 145.c Room 145g Chief Exec. -

Princess Street CorridorGents WC A1.79

Lloyd Street Back Staircase AS.3_6

Room

134 Central Block Utility 1 Room A1.54A A1.80

Lloyd Street Reception A1.84a

Room 118

Central Block Utility 1 A1.80

Room 117 Room 118b

Cooper Street Back Staircase A1.21A

Lloyd Street Back Staircase AS.3_2 Lloyd Street Back Staircase AS.3_5

1 : 200

Ladies

Room 118a

Cooper Street Spiral Staircase AS.4_2

Ladies WC A1.78a

Disabled Centre WC Block A1.78b Corridor A1.81

Cooper Street Entrance A1.21

Training Room A1.78

Central Block Utility 2 A1.77

Room 122a

Room 123a

Town Hall Project 125

Room 124

Room 120

Room A1.18

‐

Room 123

Room 121

ISSUE

Room 122

Room 127/128

Room 113 Room 133

Room 130/131

Room 130/131a

Project +44 (0) www.pu

Room 115

PROJE

Room 118

CLIEN

PROJE

Room 117

Ground Floor Plan 1:200 @ A3

Room 118b

Figure 10

Heritage Significance Level GF

Central Block Corridor Staircase

Room 115

Princess Street CorridorGents WC A1.79

Lloyd Street Central Staircase A1.10A Fraud Office Interview 126

Room 112

Room A1.53A

Room 135

Central Block Corridor Staircase (Lloyd Street) AS.5_2

Lloyd Street Corridor A1.83

Lloyd Street Spiral Staircase AS.7_1

Room 137b

Room P-138 Room Central Block Corridor Staircase (Princess Street) AS.6_1

Centre Block Store A1.81A

Room 144.c

Room 144.d

Room 113

Room A1.76

136

Room 145e

Room 144.a

Room 141

Room 138

Room 137

Central Block Corridor Staircase to basement A1.81b

Room 144.b Room 140

Room 110

Chief Exec. WC 145.d

Room 145.b

Room 138a

Sculpture Hall A1.48

Centre Block Corridor Lift P-134

Room 145.a

Central Corridor A1.74

Albert Street Corridor A1.84

Princess Street Corridor Store A1.28A

Centre Block Corridor Lift P-134

Room 145e Room 139

Room 112 Room P-138

Town Hall Services 101

Princess Street Corridor P-141 Princess Street Corridor A1.82

Detrimental

Low

Room AS.8_4

Room A1.42b

Room 109

Neutral

Medium

Room P-037

Room P-115

Key Pla

Low

High

Princess Street Mayor Entrance A1.38A

RoomRoom P-110 P-109

Room 103.b

Medium

Very High

Princess Street Back Staircase AS.1_4

Notes: Drawin is physi Do not before p All dim Purcell

SIZE &

DRAWI

Cooper Street Back Staircase A1.21A

JOB NU

Note: Ground Floor plan of Manchester Town Hall displaying levels of heritage significance From: Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019a.

Cooper Street

DRAWI

Room 118a

DRAWI

OTH

© PURCEL

3.2

1

2

3

Ground Floor Plan 1:200 @ A3 Figure 11 Note: Ground Floor plan of Manchester Town Hall displaying location of new music cafe.

From: Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019b and edit by author, 2022.

4

5

6

SOCIAL, ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMICAL IMPACTS Purcell have created a Heritage Impact statement with an analysis on the proposed works in connection with relevant legislation, planning policy and good practice requirements. They have supplied clear and convincing justification for the proposed works in their statement, in which a table of overall assessment of significance was created to assess individual elements of harm, necessary repairs, heritage assets and public benefit, and how this had adhered to the frameworks such as Heritage management and conservation plan 2015, National planning policy framework, and Planning (Listed building and Conservation areas) Act 1990. Their final conclusion stated “the proposed works to Manchester Town Hall as part of the Our Town Hall project fully comply with the legislative and policy requirements for the positive management of change for a highly designated heritage site” (Purcell Architecture Ltd, 2019a, p. 155). The client, Manchester City Council, are dedicated

towards improving the wider social, environmental and economic arenas of Manchester, in which Purcell must adhere to the client’s aspirations within their design while also acknowledging existing constraints such as design limitations and cautious conservative repairs due to its listed status. However, their renovations have accommodated social and communal value through the creation of new guided tours surrounding the building’s heritage and Manchester’s History, and exhibition spaces will feature the Town Hall’s collections. In addition, they aim to create educational programmes such as apprenticeships to enhance skills and opportunities for the local community which can attract tourism and provide economic and financial gain to Manchester. Furthermore, they have also improved efficiency of the building to reduce it’s carbon footprint through elements such as sustainable lighting heating, ventilation and acoustic systems (Purcell Architectute Ltd, 2022).

THE MUSIC CAFE OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS: In light of this, the new design of the Music Café must adhere to these legislative frameworks and guidelines while also acknowledging existing opportunities and constraints based on the clients aspirations of adding social, environmental and economic value to the Town Hall. A music café, open during the Town Hall hours, is intended to be a social space for visitors, where performances will be held by young musicians from the Manchester Royal College of Music, and young performers from the Bridgewater Halle Youth Orchestra, and other Local Music Schools.

Musical performances will create opportunities to add community and social value to Manchester as it will be a space where visitors can gather and interact for events while listening to local musicians. The space will also be designed in a way that will enhance the existing architectural beauty and history of the building in which visitors will be able to explore. In addition, these events could potentially generate economic value in terms of financial gain,

while the new café can generate jobs for the local area. In line with Purcell’s sustainability approach, the music café will also work towards improved efficiency targets by maximising natural lighting, improving ventilation, heating and rainwater harvesting systems, while also utilising recycled and locally sourced materials to contribute towards net zero carbon targets.

Best efforts are being made to protect the buildings existing architecture while also enhancing the space to adapt for its new function as a music cafe, however with this comes some limitations to design. As shown in figure 10 displaying the heritage significance of the space, the area ranges from high to very high significance and therefore the entire envelope of the space must remain unaltered, which leaves limited changes that can be made. Photographs above and below figure 11 show the current neo classical style architecture and patterns within the proposed space, to ensure cohesion of the music cafe.

3.3

PRECEDENT #1 SODA + SWINE

ARCHITECT: BASTILE STUDIO LOCATION: CALIFORNIA, USA DATE: 2019 Soda + Swine is the third dining hall located on the campus of University of California. Formerly a pub, it has been renovated into a contemporary restaurant for students to make them feel “transported from campus life and build on the sense of community” (Hansen, 2019, para. 3). The 14,000 square foot restaurant features cantilevered lighting, bamboo walls, black and white tiling, red stools and custom interior benches which are good for drop in dining.

Figure 12 Note: Photographs displaying the interior of Soda + Swine, designed by Basile Studio, 2018.

From: Hansen, 2019, photographs by Zack Benson, date unknown.

This restaurant was particularly inspiring for the design of the music cafe because the clssical design of the black and white floor tiling, red stools and antique gold accents could work to compliment and enhance the existing Town Hall architecture.

In addition, the application of greenery created an interesting contrast to the colour schemes, and addition of plantation contributes towards biodiversity and improved air quality. The overall atmosphere of the space has captured a relaxed and ambient mood and this is will help towards a achieving similar effect in the music cafe. However, it must be noted to not overpower the space too much with these features in fear of taking away from it’s historical appeal (Hansen, 2019).

PRECEDENT #2 ESQUIRE

ARCHITECT: GURU PROJECTS LOCATION: SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA DATE: 2019 Esquire is a dining room located in Sydney within the Queen Victoria building, the brief was to create a moody and inviting bar “reflective of a late-night supper club”. The concept combines an atmosphere that is both cinematic and mysterious while also feeling comforting and warm.

This is through the colour palette of rich timber, dark marble and black and velvet mosaics.

Previously a bar, however it was still presented with challenges surrounding the significant heritage of the building facade, in which the walls were to be retained and windows remaining visible due to it’s historical importance. The architects delt with this through the raised floors for services and specialist pump out systems for drainage.

It was particularly inspiring to see how architects had dealt with architectural challenges regarding it’s heritage assets, and how this created limitations with their design. However they created an impressive space that works around the design of the windows to compliment and enhance the architecture and this is of particular interest to the design of the Town Hall with it facing similar challenges (Archello, n.d.).

Figure 13 Note: Photographs displaying the interior of Esquire, designed by Guru Projects, 2019.

From: Archello (n.d.), photographs by Kitti Gould (date unknown).

3.4

SKETCH DEVELOPMENT AND MOOD BOARD

MOOD BOARD

3.5

AUTOCAD PLANS

Structural Grid 1:100 @ A3

Ground Floor Plan 1:100 @ A3

SECTIONS

Section A-A 1:100 @ A3

Section B-B 1:100 @ A3

Section C-C 1:100 @ A3

3.6

3D VISU

UAL #1

3.6

3D VISU

UAL #2

3.6

3D VISU

UAL #3

3.6

3D VISU

UAL #4

3D VISUAL

L COLLAGE

REFERENCE LIST Archello. (n.d.). Esquire. https://archello.com/project/esquire Hansen, K. (2019, 15 November). This Restaurant Is Actually a College Dining Hall Unlike Any Other in America. https:// www.architecturaldigest.com/story/this-restaurant-actually-college-dining-hall-unlike-other-america Manchester City Council. (2022a). History of Manchester Town Hall. ttps://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/500323/town_ hall/7285/history_of_manchester_town_hall Manchester City Council. (2022b). Albert Square Conservation Area. https://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/511/conservation_areas/934/albert_square_conservation_area MHCLG. (2012, March 27). National Planning Policy Framework. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1005759/NPPF_July_2021.pdf.

Purcell Architecture Ltd. (2019a). Heritage Impact Statement: Manchester Town Hall. https://pa.manchester.gov.uk/online-applications/files/4937117418E262560EABBC9A44BBCF2B/pdf/125552_VO_2019-HERITAGE_IMPACT_ASSESSMENT-1335824.pdf Purcell Architecture Ltd. (2022). Manchester Town Hall. https://www.purcelluk.com/projects/manchester-town-hall/ RIBA Architecture. (2022). RIBA publishes guide to building sustainably. https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/knowledge-landing-page/riba-publishes-guide-to-building-sustainably Thompson, P. (1968). Building of the Year: Manchester Town Hall. Victorian Studies, 11(3), 401–403. http://www.jstor.org/ stable/3825152

IMAGE SOURCE LIST Figure 1: Alamy. (2015). Manchester New Town Hall. Elevation towards Albert Squre; A. Waterhouse 187. https://www. alamy.com/manchester-new-town-hall-elevation-towards-albert-squre-a-waterhouse-1876-image183037008.html Figure 2: Manchester Confidentials. (2016). Manchester Town Hall: The Ones That Got Away. https://confidentials.com/ manchester/manchester-town-hall-the-ones-that-got-away Figure 3 & 4: National Library of Scotland. (2022). Side by Side of Manchester Town Hall [Map]. https://maps.nls.uk/geo/ explore/side-by-side/#zoom=12.8&lat=53.43049&lon=-2.37198&layers=1&right=ESRIWorld Figure 5: Manchester City Council. (2005). Albert Square Conservation Area [Map]. https://www.manchester.gov.uk/ downloads/download/3790/conservation_area_maps Figure 6: Purcell Architecture Ltd. (2022). Manchester Town Hall. https://www.purcelluk.com/projects/manchester-town-hall/ Figure 7: Purcell Architecture Ltd. (2019b). Design and Access Statement: Manchester Town Hall. https://pa.manchester.gov.uk/online-applications/files/2915D27FF923E0819CF600A48C538273/pdf/125552_ VO_2019-BUILDING___ENVIRONS_DAS-1335825.pdf Figure 8 & 9: Purcell Architecture Ltd. (2019b). Design and Access Statement: Manchester Town Hall. https://pa.manchester.gov.uk/online-applications/files/2915D27FF923E0819CF600A48C538273/pdf/125552_VO_2019-BUILDING___ ENVIRONS_DAS-1335825.pdf Figure 10: Purcell Architecture Ltd. (2019b). Design and Access Statement: Manchester Town Hall. https://pa.manchester. gov.uk/online-applications/files/2915D27FF923E0819CF600A48C538273/pdf/125552_VO_2019-BUILDING___ENVIRONS_DAS-1335825.pdf Figure 11: Purcell Architecture Ltd. (2019b). Heritage Impact Statement: Manchester Town Hall. https://pa.manchester. gov.uk/online-applications/files/4937117418E262560EABBC9A44BBCF2B/pdf/125552_VO_2019-HERITAGE_IMPACT_ ASSESSMENT-1335824.pdf Figure 12: Hansen, K. (2019, 15 November). This Restaurant Is Actually a College Dining Hall Unlike Any Other in America. https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/this-restaurant-actually-college-dining-hall-unlike-other-america Figure 13: Archello. (n.d.). Esquire. https://archello.com/project/esquire