This marvellous old building, that was once the administrative hub of Bristol and later became the magistrates’ court, had fallen empty and unused for many years.
Following recent internal changes at the local city council, however, it was decided to use the Grade II* Listed Building for the city’s Registrar’s Department. This led to the careful re-planning and restoration of key historic spaces providing Bristol with a tremendous facility, not only for the Registrar’s staff but also for the many public visitors, including of course, newly-weds and their families.
The sensitively restored building now offers a series of historic function rooms as well as comfortable modern office space and archive facilities for the Registrar’s staff. The various changes in level have been carefully addressed and linked together by a new staircase and lift inserted into a redundant courtyard which is now top-lit and enclosed from the weather. Thoughtfully detailed stairs and a platform lift provide new access to the grand main entrance. Internally all key historic features and finishes have been restored and paint colours introduced to reflect the original period of the building.
