WongAvery Gallery

by Níall McLaughlin Architects

Client Trinity Hall

Award RIBA East Award 2024

The WongAvery Gallery is a unique project, built in a highly sensitive historic location and to a very specific and unusual brief. Surrounded by Grade I and Grade II listed buildings within an existing court at Trinity Hall, Cambridge, it provides a dedicated music practice and performance space. It also houses environmentally sensitive musical instruments and the college’s music library.

This small, single-space building responds to its challenging context and technically demanding brief with exceptional rigour. The technical challenges are addressed as an integral part of the architectural language: the material properties of Portland stone define the building’s character, as both structure and enclosure, but are also used to control acoustic reverberation and moderate temperature and humidity.

Most importantly, the project has created a space of calm, contemplative enjoyment for performers and audiences alike, supporting the ongoing musical life of the college.

Read the full citation from the RIBA Awards Jury on RIBA Journal

Contractors Barnes Construction

Structural Engineer Smith & Wallwork

Environmental / M&E Engineer Max Fordham

Acoustic Engineer Gillieron Scott Acoustic Design

Landscape Architect Kim Wilkie

Stone Consultant Harrison Goldman

Quantity Surveyor / Cost Consultant Gleeds

Gross internal area in m² 73