Song School, Chester Cathedral

As Cathedral Architect, Andrew Arrol undertook the first major extension to Chester Cathedral since the Reformation. The Song School offers a permanent home to the Cathedral’s multiple choirs.

Internal arrangements were carefully considered to ensure that the space was fit for purpose as a busy and fully-functioning song school. Practically, this included a plan that allowed for ease of movement within it, materials that were durable and arrangements that would allow for a high-quality acoustic that is aided by purpose-designed oak and silk reflective and absorbent panels. The existing Grade I building was carefully protected during the project.  The roof is covered with random and diminishing Penrhyn Slates.

Further projects completed within the Cathedral and its precinct include the fit out of a shop located in the Cathedral’s crypt. The resulting facilities accommodate the needs growing numbers of visitors to the Cathedral and has been completed, much like the Song School, with sensitivity and integrity.