CLIENT: 78 Derngate / COMPLETION: In Progress / LOCATION: Derngate, Northampton
78 Derngate Visitor Centre
78 Derngate is a listed building within the Derngate conservation area of Northampton, home of Wynne Bassett Lowke, it was remodelled by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the famous Scottish architect. It is now open throughout the year.
The 78 Derngate Trust was formed to manage the house after it was restored in 2000. Offering guided tours, cultural events and exhibitions. These activities soon outgrew the original ‘visitors centre’ and the Trust approached MWK Architects in 2018 to design a new visitors centre.
The Visitor Centre, a fully glazed extension ‘glass box’ is a powerful contrast to the surrounding Charles Rennie Mackintosh House due to its modern style.
Raised above landscaped gardens, up to 80 visitors can enjoy the views and refreshments whilst waiting to participate in a guided tour of 78 Derngate. The double height space and mezzanine finally connect all the first floor galleries and gives visitors a panoramic view of the Derngate gardens and Becket’s Park beyond. This visitors centre is also available for hosting other cultural events.
PROJECT CREDITS
TEAM
Director: Dominic Kramer
Architect: Beata Ogrodnik, Julia Radka
Architectural Assitant: Valeria Bobadilla-Maya
