Astute conservation, in keeping with the spirit of the building
Allford Hall Monaghan Morris for Royal Court Theatre Trust
Contract value: £5.97m
GIA: 4,296m²
Cost per m²: £1,390
Collaboration between client and architect has breathed new life into Liverpool and a historic grade II listed building that celebrates its 80th birthday this year. The project was carried out in three ‘acts’. The first refurbished the auditorium and introduced cabaret style stalls seating, allowing the audience to dine, drink and dance throughout a performance.
The second rationalised the front of house, adding a bar and a curving glass and steel extension to provide lobby, box office and refreshment spaces. The final act was to refurbish the basement as a studio for smaller shows. This is astute conservation, in keeping with the spirit of the building, and this 10-year collaboration has left all with a renewed sense of pride and joy.