Teams appointed for major revamp of Preston's Harris

Designer Wayne Hemmingway at Vintage by the Sea, MorecambeDesigner Wayne Hemmingway at Vintage by the Sea, Morecambe
Designer Wayne Hemmingway at Vintage by the Sea, Morecambe
Designer Wayne Hemingway has been appointed to help create a new vision for Preston's Harris.

HemingwayDesign has been chosen as internal designers, to work with the Harris project team to come up with the principles for the revamp, and to confirm the “overarching creative concept”.

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Conservation architects Purcell have also been brought in to create and manage a team of experts, and come up with plans and visuals for the new design.

The ideas from HemingwayDesign will look at using space, media, technology and creative opportunities through the interaction of the museum, library and art gallery, including linking the building with the outside space.

Harris Museum and Art GalleryHarris Museum and Art Gallery
Harris Museum and Art Gallery

Leaders are looking for “ground-breaking approaches” that will draw on inspiration from the Harris, the designer’s experience and from other world-class exemplars.

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Wayne Hemingway said: “As a proud Lancastrian, I am thrilled that HemingwayDesign has the opportunity to work on such a stunning and iconic building.

“The Harris is a great Northern treasure and we look forward to taking part in its re-imagining.”

Senior architect at Purcell Laura Sherliker said: “We’re excited to be working with the Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library to develop a new vision for their Grade I listed building.

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Harris Museum and Art GalleryHarris Museum and Art Gallery
Harris Museum and Art Gallery

“Our intention is to develop a programme that will enhance its services and create a new community hub that will ensure the building continues to inspire and engage its future visitors.

“As a Guild Burgess, my ties to Preston date back to the Royal Charter that founded the city we know today.

“I am proud to be part of a project that will transform this important listed building, that will act as a catalyst for change and breathe new life into the civic heart of Preston.”

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Preston Council’s cabinet member for culture and leisure services, Coun Peter Kelly said: “The Harris is the jewel in Preston’s crown as the city’s most precious cultural and community resource.

“We’re keen to develop the Harris further whilst always protecting and maintaining its features and heritage.”

County Coun Marcus Johnstone added: “Our priority now is to put together a first class bid for major external funding and that’s what we and the whole team at the Harris are focused on.”

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