HERBERT MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY

The refurbishment of the grounds of the city centre museum. The design of the public spaces was sympathetic with the existing 1950’s building and complemented the addition of a new Creative Industries wing. We used materials that are locally distinctive and sympathetic to the original building; red sandstone, commonly used in the neighbouring historic architecture with coloured concrete.

The entrance to the museum re-located to the West street opposite Coventry Cathedral is marked by a red sandstone carpet and evergreen hedges and tall grasses. Sculpture from the gallery has been sited amongst the planting. The east public square is restored with red sandstone ovals cut to hand drawings, to create an artistic grand place for an outdoor performance and arts space.

A red stone ramp for access for the disabled is introduced to the revitalised new public performance square. An herb garden replaces the rose garden and sculptures re-sited within the garden.

Client: Coventry City Council
Architect: Haworth Tompkins