We put forward a simple idea to provide a dramatic welcome to the Cathedral Close, with a transparent pavilion reaching out to Minster Pool. The building achieves a clearly 21st century design whilst maintaining an appreciation of the site’s rich historical context.

The design will support a number of diverse activities and enhance the experience of visiting the Cathedral, whilst expanding its educational programme, increasing accessibility and responding to the projected increase in visitor numbers.

The scheme includes a number of innovative measures for heating, cooling and ventilation. The profiled sawtooth roof of the pavilion will provide a platform for solar collectors, as well as allowing daylighting with minimal solar gain. The undulating form of the soffit will also help to create an ambient acoustic environment, whilst maintaining controlled views to the largest of the Cathedral’s three spires.