Issue 45 Feb 25 web - Flipbook - Page 87
During the planning stages of the project, archaeological
investigations took place both inside and outside
the building. Methods of scientific analysis such as
dendrochronology (tree-ring dating), helped to pin down
the phases of historic construction. This information
helped to inform decisions about the future of the
building.
Designed to portray the bishops’ influence, status and
wealth, the castle has been dramatically altered and
adapted over centuries, as tastes and fashions changed,
but has remained in continuous use since the 1100s. A
key element of Purcell’s appointment was to understand
the whole site’s historic significance, and the preparation
of a Conservation Management Plan established a
framework by which decisions could be made to inform
the subsequent, transformative design proposals.
Some fantastic personal objects, lost or discarded
hundreds of years ago by the Castle’s inhabitants, were
also uncovered through the meticulous work of specialists
who dedicated thousands of hours to conserving the
building and its contents.
Other than the introduction of gas and electricity, little
has changed in the castle since 1800, and its interiors are
some of the best-preserved examples of James Wyatt’s
early Gothic work. The project team recognised the
significance of his work and the client agreed to anchor
plans and proposals in this phase of the castle’s history,
returning the state rooms to their late Georgian splendour.
Historic plaster and wood are particularly sensitive to
sudden changes in temperature and humidity, which can
cause them to expand, contract and even crack. Sensitive
fabric upgrades and a new heating system were needed to
keep the environment in the castle stable. Key exhibition
spaces were improved to GIS security and environmental
standards. The castle is now served by a centralised, single
thermal source, known as the Energy Centre.
Wyatt’s scheme encompassed architectural features and
the entire interiors, incorporating textiles and furniture
installed to his specification. Unfortunately, most of these
furnishings were lost. With no contemporary depictions
of the castle’s interior, piecing together how the rooms
once looked relied on archival references and receipts for
building materials, and utilising themes from a similar
decorative scheme that Wyatt created at Fonthill Abbey,
Wiltshire. Each of the architectural features - including
plaster ceilings, floors, doors and window frames,
stained glass, fireplaces and door furniture - was assessed
individually, balancing aesthetic considerations and
conservation principles.
Auckland Castle is a complex series of buildings
developed over numerous level changes - 15 different
levels over four principal storeys. An integral ambition for
the project was to increase accessibility and allow all to
follow this processional route through the building.
As such, the Purcell team worked closely with access
consultants to assess the existing provisions, produce a
site-wide access plan and advise upon measures to be
incorporated.
Below, the Throne Room at Auckland Caslte (c) Paul White
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