The Liverpool Philharmonic Hall is a Grade II* listed art deco building originally designed by Liverpool architect Herbert Rowse.

Max Fordham worked on the M&E and lighting design. Our input ranged from tiny interventions to achieve exact details; to replacing enormous two-tonne 1930’s extract fans. The building therefore operates efficiently and maintains Liverpool Philharmonic Hall's position as an internationally renowned venue. 

The front of house has been reworked to reflect many of the design intentions of the original structure. The refurbishment, unveiled for the orchestra’s 175th season, rearranges existing volumes to make better use of the space, improving the experience for visitors by addressing acoustic issues.

The constraints were significant; the Listed Status, the acoustic requirements, the precise architectural detailing and a restrictive budget. Modern technologies were applied to make the building as flexible as possible, while preserving a visual aspect that returns to Rowse’s original Art Deco design. Our work delivered a beautifully engineered building.