A Grade II listed building on the Albert Dock is set to be re-imagined.
Hartley Hut, one of three octagonal granite cabins that date back to 1844 on the dock, will be re-imagined, with a view to it being used as a new food and beverage outlet.
The structure was one of the Watchmen’s Huts, which were used as shelters for the workers operating gates into the river.
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The huts were part of civil engineer Jesse Hartley’s initial Albert Dock construction and their shallow pyramidal roofs and overhanging cornice eaves are said to make them archetypal of Hartley’s ‘cyclopean’ architecture.
National Museums Liverpool announced that chartered architects, Harrison Stringfellow will deliver the refurbishment and design of the building.
A spokesperson for Harrison Stringfellow said: “We are delighted to be working with National Museums Liverpool on the first of their waterfront transformation projects.
“The bijoux Hartley Hut will help connect the portfolio of buildings and public space, each with their own unique qualities and purpose in defining a world class cultural experience for new and returning visitors.”
Karen O’Connor, director of commercial enterprise at National Museums Liverpool added: “We are delighted to be working with Harrison Stringfellow to bring Hartley Hut back to life, giving visitors to Liverpool’s historic waterfront the opportunity to experience this iconic building in a new, exciting way.
“As well as creating a quality food and beverage offer for visitors, all profits generated from Hartley Hut will be returned to support the work of National Museums Liverpool.
"We will work with our community groups in bringing the right partnership for the visitor profile, to complement the overall destination.”
National Museums Liverpool’s transformation project will span the area between the Royal Albert Dock and Mann Island.
It will take in landmarks including the creation of pedestrian links to the Canning Dock, while also aiming to rejuvenate multiple buildings within the area as part of a ten year masterplan for transformation of Liverpool’s waterfront.
The project will include the redevelopment of the Dr Martin Luther King Jr Building – formerly the Dock Traffic Office- and aims for the building to provide a dramatic and prominent entrance to the International Slavery Museum as part of the plans.
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