What’s with the scaffolding?

The front of the Philharmonic Hall is currently wrapped in scaffolding as major works are underway to remove and refurbish the windows of the Grand Foyer Bar and 1840 Lounge.

The original steel window frames, now almost 90 years old, are showing serious signs of deterioration. To preserve this important feature of our Grade II* listed hall, we’re carefully restoring them and futureproofing the frames, so they remain part of the fabric of the Phil for generations to come.

As part of the project, we’re also enhancing the single glazing with more thermally efficient vacuum glazing, helping reduce our energy usage and our carbon emissions.

Due to the building’s heritage listing, we worked closely with Liverpool City Council’s Heritage Officer from the outset to make sure the plans carefully balanced the preservation of the Hall’s historic character with the need to protect and improve the windows for the future.

The project will be completed by the end of October, with the windows beautifully renewed, retaining all their historic character while performing to modern standards.

“Maintaining a historic building means striking the right balance between conservation and modern performance. By carefully restoring the original steel frames and upgrading the glazing, we’re safeguarding these beautiful windows and improving the Hall’s environmental performance at the same time.”

Alan Mcleod, Head Of Facilities, Liverpool Philharmonic