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• Special Award:

  City of Culture Award
  Read more about Special Awards

• Level of Award:

  Special Award

• Region:

  North West

• Local Authority Area:

  Liverpool

• Entrant:

  Purcell Miller Tritton

• Developer:

  Liverpool City Council

• Services Engineer:

  Hannan Associates

• Contractor:

  Linford Group (phase II - South)

• Quantity Surveyor:

  Cyril Sweett

• Inclusive Design Consultant:

  Lisa Foster

• Primary Use Class:

  D1g Public hall or exhibition
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Information about this winner

This scheme provides a new focal point for Liverpool city centre, and deservedly, is a popular source of civic pride. Originally designed in the 1830's as a civic hall and courts, St George's Hall has been brought back into use after 23 years of closure.  The renovation of the Grade I listed building, and improvements to the external works has restored a great asset to the local community and the city. The scheme allows the halls to be used as concert and exhibition venues, and a high level of flexibility means that the different venues can be used simultaneously whilst still maintaining public access to the visitor centre.  Wherever possible, the renovation and refurbishment work has used salvaged and recycled materials, and local sourcing. Local craftsmen were employed, and apprentices trained to undertake traditional and specialist crafts. This was particularly appropriate in the specialist redecoration of the Small Concert Room, North Entrance Hall and staircases. The Small Concert has been beautifully restored to its original scheme, including gold leaf. One of the most important early Victorian interiors, it is now stunning asset to the city.  The new visitor centre is approached via the wonderful brick vaulted basement areas and includes appropriate modern interventions in the form of stainless steel and oak. The design of new facilities is sensitive, but confident.  As originally planned when St George's Hall was first designed, the building has played host to city functions and celebrations, especially fitting in 2008, Liverpool’s year as Capital of Culture. A wonderful symbol of civic pride for an historic, internationally acclaimed city.