Buttress has been appointed by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Liverpool to lead on a variety of works on the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King
Designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd and completed in 1967, the unique circular form and stained-glass lantern of the grade II* listed cathedral are 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.
The works will include preservation and modernisation where required
The initial phase of work by Buttress will include the cathedral’s first ever Quinquennial Inspection(QI)- meaning an occasion that occurs every five years or to last for five years- to understand the condition and issues faced by the building.
The deep understanding gained of the condition of the building fabric will be used to inform a forward conservation and maintenance strategy.
Associate director at Buttress, Edward Kepczyk, said: “Conservation architecture does not stand still and we are continually adding to our understanding and skills in working with modern architectural forms, materials and construction. Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral is a great exemplar of the fact that the need to conserve buildings isn’t necessarily defined by age.”
Buttress will also create a strategic masterplan to ensure Liverpool Cathedral’s continued development and renewal
Buttress’ strategic masterplan will create a holistic vision for the cathedral, addressing their key priorities to enhance the visitor experience, utilise space better, improve the cathedral’s carbon footprint and become more financially sustainable.
This masterplan will be used toidentify a series of new projects that will help guide its development and renewal.
Director Matthew Burl comments: “The Metropolitan Cathedral is iconic; it is a privilege to work with the Archdiocese to collaboratively help envisage its future. Our masterplan reflects the cathedral’s standing in the city and the communities it serves. It articulates the vision and provides a framework for conservation and renewal, sensitively building on the way the cathedral works as a place of worship, and stands as a landmark for all types of visitors.
“Side by side Buttress’ masterplan and QI will help us to understand the building’s present and shape its future, protecting its significance through that process.”
