The Halls, which includes St. Andrews Hall and Blackfriars Hall, in Norwich is due to reopen to the public in 2026 after extensive refurbishment.

Funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government the work preserves the two buildings' historical integrity and includes the sensitive insertion of a new lift shaft and improvement of disabled access.

Venue facilities were upgraded with a major redesign of the interiors to improve accessibility, alongside updates to the exterior of the building. The café and bar have also been upgraded.

Our structures team has been involved throughout the project, working on both St Andrews Hall and Blackfriars Hall. Working closely with the client and the design team, we have provided innovative solutions to aid the careful and sympathetic alterations of the Grade I Listed buildings including engineering for the new Beckets Chapel roof, careful insertion of a new lift shaft which utilises a previously concealed historic arch, in addition to several other aspects of the refurbishment.

St Andrew's Hall is the centrepiece of The Halls project - a distinguished complex of medieval buildings that stands as the most complete surviving friary complex in England. Originally established by the Dominican Blackfriars in 1307, the site has undergone various transformations over the centuries, reflecting its rich historical and cultural significance.

Both buildings were closed to the public throughout much of 2024 and 2025, allowing for works to progress. Now that the restoration of The Halls has been completed, the buildings will once again allow members of the public to enjoy these historic spaces.

Find out more about our involvement.