A quantum leap for Leicester. AJ 08.2025

Publication Year

2025

Document Status

Current

Abstract

Van Heyningen and Haward Architects (vHH) has completed a transformative reordering of Leicester Cathedral, culminating in the new Heritage and Learning Centre (HLC) following the 2012 discovery and reburial of King Richard III. The project enhances accessibility, sustainability, and civic engagement through sensitive retrofit and new-build interventions. The cathedral’s interior was reconfigured with level access, improved heating, lighting, and AV systems, while the HLC—designed with Passivhaus principles—provides public amenities, learning spaces, and hospitality functions. The scheme b2025alances heritage conservation with contemporary performance, featuring low operational and embodied carbon, and a carefully engineered basement that preserves Roman archaeology. Includes project data, architect’s view, engineer’s view, energy consultant’s view, client’s view, sustainability data, working detail. Architect: van Heyningen and Haward Architects.

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