Quayside Plans

Sunday 10 September marks the first anniversary of Arnolfini's reopening following a major refurbishment project. Over the past year over half a million visitors have made use of Arnolfini's improved facilities and expanded gallery and project spaces.

The refurbishment didn't just end there however- Arnolfini has submitted plans for a new quayside café station to be built outside Bush House as part of their ongoing improvments to the building and surrounds.

Led by Snell Associates, the firm responsible for the redevelopment, the new proposals include demolishing the existing brick-built Auxiliary Engine House (currently used as a bin shed) and its replacement by a landmark structure more in keeping with the area.

Demolition of the engine house is a condition of the leasing agreement for the quayside that Arnolfini holds with Bristol City Council. Snell Associates’ design makes historical reference to the original working quayside and the idea of a sea container-a Brunel transit shed once stood on the site. The new structure will be a similar size and shape to the engine house, but will be re-positioned to create more space at the top of the quayside steps leading down to the floating jetty and ferry stop.
Visitors to Arnolfini and its cafe bar will further benefit from an elevated “deck”, providing a safe and level platform for seating between the existing trees so that even more will be able to enjoy the harbourside and its views.

Arnolfini Supporters and Corporate Members will be amongst the first to view the plans at a special event this Autumn on a date to be confirmed.

Published on: 8 September 2006