THE AUCKLAND CASTLE, DURHAM
Archive
Grade I Listed
ROLE:
From 2013 to 2019. Following successful selection through a conservation and design competition, Chris and the Purcell team led the major Heritage Lottery funded project for the transformation of Auckland Castle to be the centrepiece of the regeneration through tourism and leisure of Bishop Auckland.
THE BUILDING:
One of the best-preserved Bishop's palaces in Europe. Originally a 12th-century manor, it was developed into a fortified castle by Bishop Antony Bek in the early 14th century, and later was transformed into a Gothic-style palace in the late 18th century by James Wyatt. Featuring a 17th-century chapel, Gothic architecture, and a 10 acre garden.
PROJECT SCOPE
This project comprises the transformation of the listed building to tell the living story of the Prince Bishops of Durham, it restores the James Wyatt interiors as part of the interpretation, which includes the celebrated F Zurbaran paintings of the twelve sons of Israel. 5000 years of Faith is told through a new contemporary gallery extension, where loan collections can be brought into and displayed in secure gallery conditions. The spaces provide visitor refreshments and facilities. The site was renamed Auckland Palace after this redevelopment milestone.
AWARDS
THE AUCKLAND CASTLE HERITAGE LOTTERY REDEVELOPMENT
RIBA National Award 2024
RIBA North East Building of the Year 2024
RIBA North East: Conservation 2024
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DURHAM CATHEDRAL