Issue 38 Summer web 23 - Flipbook - Page 13
Expanding inclusive design
at the Burrell Collection
The design of the Burrell Collection in 1983 preceded the national regulations that introduced
accessibility as a requirement for new buildings. The Burrell Renaissance Project was therefore a
one-off opportunity to address and even exceed current expectations.
The project team, working on one of just a few
Category A post-war listed buildings in Scotland, has
enthusiastically embraced the opportunity. In doing this
they were encouraged by the considerable efforts made by
the client to consult with over 15,000 local people
including those with disabilities. This was a huge commitment and influenced the design of the building and its setting as the scheme developed.
All access improvements were suggested and developed
on the basis that the Burrell is a much-loved listed
building. It was recognised that any improvement should
not detract but rather contribute to the outstanding
architecture, ensuring that the museum will continue to
be loved by even greater, and more diverse, numbers of
visitors.
The Burrell has two functions, primarily as museum
spaces to exhibit the collection, but also as a community
facility serving local interests. Both have been successfully
and comprehensively met by incorporating regulatory requirements. However other access improvements have
gone far beyond strict statutory obligations. A handful of
these are outlined here.
Getting to the Burrell Collection
Regardless of any efforts to improve accessibility into and
within a building, the full benefit of improvements will
not be felt without suitable measures for arrival. From the
outset this has been an issue at the Burrell, located as it is
outside Glasgow with limited public transport connections and with a steep slope across the site. These key
limitations have been addressed by providing a new
parking area, close to the building, for cars and buses,
including ample Blue Badge Bays and a drop-off position
directly in front of the main entrance. In addition there
is now a new step-free path leading to the entrance on
level 2 as well as another step-free route to the café terrace
and onwards to Pollock Park itself.
Enjoying the collection
Internally the single main entrance put arrival spaces
under pressure as visitor numbers increased. Furthermore,
the original layout of the museum was considered difficult
to follow. These issues have been addressed by introducing
an additional entrance and simplifying wayfinding on
arrival via the triple height central ‘orientation’ hub.
Lifts and WCs have been increased and improved. There
are now two Changing Place WCs in addition to the
regulatory accessible WC requirement; there are lifts
between all levels with two in the main building, one of
which can accommodate larger wheelchairs and scooters;
and, rest seating has been provided in key locations.
These changes have considerably improved the visitor
experience for everyone, but especially for those with
impaired mobility or limited energy.
Conservation & Heritage Journal
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