Levitt Bernstein Completes Bristol Beacon Concert Hall & Music Hub
1 February 2024
Levitt Bernstein’s reimagination and restoration of Bristol Beacon sees this Grade II listed concert hall transformed. The venue can now compete on a world stage with exemplary standards of acoustics and improved accessibility. The work includes an entirely new interior for the main hall, restored second hall, and a new cellar venue, together with renovated historic public spaces and new music studios.
The once-in-a-generation transformation is complete. After five years, Bristol Beacon is open.
With a focus on heritage and sustainability, Levitt Bernstein worked carefully to retain the historic character of the building, including the restoration of the second hall and historic public spaces. Working sensitively within the constraints of the exiting fabric, Levitt Bernstein designed an entirely new interior for the main hall, a cellar venue and music studios. With a focus on accessibility, the building has been adapted to meet contemporary standards to now compete with venues on an international stage, whilst also celebrating the rich social history and heritage of the Beacon building.
Some interesting ways that Levitt Bernstein restored the heritage elements include:
- Reinstating the full size of the original daylit atrium in the Lantern Hall, featuring a new modern staircase with historic interpretation
- Reuse of timber elements from the existing fit-out into the new scheme
- Completing restoration works that reinstated the original architectural composition of the Colston Street façade by removing later additions
- Reinstating the colonnade to its original width of seven bays and reopening the windows to the Lantern Hall
The project is an exceptional example of technical adaptability within a historic context. Not only must the architecture be respectful of the existing building, but also the acoustics, functionality and accessibility have been upgraded to meet modern-day requirements. It’s also – literally – a beacon for Bristol and a celebration of the role of culture in enlivening our cities.