DKA | Bristol Museum
DKA | Bristol Museum
DKA | Bristol Museum
DKA | Bristol Museum
DKA | Bristol Museum

Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

Grade II listed Bristol landmark made accessible to all

DKA were appointed to transform the main entrance to Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, removing physical barriers to ensure all citizens can view the collections.

Improvements to public access to the Grade 2 listed building included the provision of a bespoke passenger lift designed to carry two wheelchairs at a time, new stairs and the enclosure of the existing porte-cochère with planar glass screens to create a new entrance foyer. The new lift and stairs link the new foyer at street level with the existing Winterstoke Hall and the Museum’s reception. The works included new external pavings, internal finishes, lighting and intruder alarms.

“ The project received a 'Bristol Civic Society Environmental Award' that recognises developments which make a positive contribution to the local environment through excellence of design ”
Rebecca Furse - Senior Designer

Access Throughout

DKA provided a full architectural service as lead consultant, liaising with English Heritage and Bristol City Council’s ‘Physical Access Chain Group’ together with preparation of information for public exhibitions and consultations. The project received a ‘Bristol Civic Society Environmental Award’ which recognises developments in Bristol which make a positive contribution to the local environment through excellence of design.

The entrance was not the only area of the museum where access needed to be improved. The Bristol Museum was constructed in two phases between 1902-1926 and the difference in floor height between the two phases resulted in approximately 40% of the upper public floor areas being inaccessible by lift.

Following the works to the entrance, DKA were also commissioned to undertake a feasibility study to review an existing study and other documentation prepared by Bristol City Council’s Corporate Services department. DKA prepared an independent briefing report, examining all available options to provide disabled access to the two upper floors which were inaccessible by those unable to use stairs.

Consultation during the preparation of the report was undertaken on site with English Heritage.

DKA | Bristol Museum