Construction of a new music practice and performance space for Trinity Hall in Cambridge has reached a pivotal stage with the installation of the granite and stone walls.
Founded in 1350, Trinity Hall is the fifth oldest college at the University of Cambridge and can boast alumni such as Professor Stephen Hawking, Andrew Marr and JB Priestley.
Sitting in the centre of Avery Court and adjacent to the chapels of Trinity Hall and Clare College, the WongAvery Music Gallery is being built by Ipswich-based Barnes Construction. When completed, it will provide a 77 square metres stone-built rehearsal and recital space, enhancing the College’s offering to students and staff who are studying or participating in music.
The new building has been designed by Níall McLaughlin Architects to an exceptionally high specification. The skeletal type structure combines modern masonry and steel components with precast concrete, traditional granite and Portland stone which has been mined from a quarry on the Isle of Portland in Dorset.
Junior Bursar and Fellow of Trinity Hall, Glen Sharp, joined Joint MD of Barnes Construction, Mark Hart and the site team, to mark the laying of the first stone.
Glen commented: “It is good to see work progressing well on this striking building. Once the walls are finished, the stone theme will continue throughout the Gallery to ensure a homogenous appearance. Bronze windows and leather-bound music boxes will also add to the intricacies of the build.”
Completing in early Summer 2020, the WongAvery Music Gallery is named in recognition of its primary funders, the family of the late US Philanthropist, Mr Dennis Avery, a Trinity Hall alumnus, benefactor and Honorary Fellow.