The Halls, located in the centre of Norwich near St Andrews plain, is a historic complex of medieval buildings and includes St Andrew's Hall and Blackfriars' Hall.  Set within a Scheduled Monument, both halls are Grade I listed and are one of the most complete medieval friary complexes surviving in England.

Originally established by Dominican friars in the 14th century, the buildings were repurposed for civic use following the Reformation in 1538. St Andrew’s Hall, with its hammer-beamed roof and stained-glass windows, has hosted events ranging from royal banquets to music festivals. Blackfriars’ Hall features oak panelling and houses a significant collection of civic portraits, including a notable painting of Admiral Lord Nelson.

Funded by Norwich City Council, the Town Deal, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and Arts Council England, both St Andrews Hall and Blackfriars Hall have undergone an extensive restoration project to the building’s roofs and stained glass.  The project also included the installation of modern audiovisual equipment, improved accessibility, and enhanced café and bar facilities.

Rossi Long Consulting were appointed to provide detailed structural design guidance and advice throughout the project, allowing for sensitive repair of both Grade I Listed buildings.

Our structural engineers worked closely with the client team on this challenging project. Due to the nature of the buildings, any alterations to the structure needed to be sympathetic to its historic fabric, minimising impact. The site had many archaeological features and careful consideration need to be taken to anything proposed at ground level.

We were appointed to provide engineering solutions for the installation of the new Beckets Chapel roof and the sensitive insertion of a new lift shaft which utilises a previously concealed historic arch. Our team were also involved in the design of the support structure for the new audio-visual equipment and lighting.

The extensive renovation project has resulted in a more user-friendly and accessible venue, as well as preserving the building for the future.