We have been the architects to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park since 1988. In 1995, we were appointed as masterplanning architects for a bid to the National Lottery and European Regional Development Fund to secure finance for a new visitor centre and indoor gallery space. Phase 1 involved a series of dramatic proposals to reunite and restore the historic Bretton estate, including a new entrance road and car park, a landscape masterplan and new footpath infrastructure – in addition to the new visitor centre. A new underground gallery followed in December 2004.

The visitor centre forms a bridge through the landscape, linking the open parkland with the 18th century formal gardens creating a linear route through a belt of trees. Based around a linear concourse, the new building provides a shop and cafeteria, 120-seat auditorium, meeting rooms, education spaces and toilets. The concourse provides gallery space for sculptures and two dimensional works.

The building has a strong environmental agenda which, by maximising the use of natural ventilation and daylighting, has reduced energy costs by working to standards in excess of current building regulations. The Visitor Centre was completed in 2002 and has helped establish the YSP as one of the world’s major sculpture parks.

Client: Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Construction value: £3,900,000

Completion: June 2002

“This is a very assured work that admirably fulfils its function as the entrance to an extraordinary sculpture collection. It is an appropriately sculptural work of architecture that delights with a relaxed sequence of spatial experiences, careful orchestration of views, thoughtful use of materials and a real sense of craftsmanship in its detailing and construction.”
RIBA Award 2003