Image: Planning and design by Ralph Appelbaum Associates
The Hub explains how it was appointed to spearhead the next phase of the Harris Your Place transformation
Preston City Council has appointed The Hub, a market leader renowned for delivering world-class visitor attractions, to spearhead the next phase of the Harris Your Place transformation. With a trusted heritage in crafting immersive and inspiring spaces, The Hub will be integral to the specialist manufacturing and complex fit-out of the visionary design by Ralph Appelbaum Associates, working in collaboration with Focus Consultants and Ridge and Partners.
This ambitious refurbishment will breathe new life into the Grade I listed museum, gallery, and library, unveiling 18 revitalised galleries, improved accessibility, and vibrant new spaces—including a café, shop, and event venue. The transformation will seamlessly weave together art, heritage, and community, creating an experience that resonates with visitors for generations to come.
A Major Milestone in the Harris Your Place Journey
Celebrating this significant step forward, Councillor Anna Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council, expressed her excitement: “This handover marks a defining moment in the Harris Your Place journey. We are thrilled to welcome the fit-out contractor (The Hub), who will shape our vision into reality, transforming the Harris into a vibrant, 21st-century hub for learning, creativity, and community engagement.”
With preparations now underway, Harry Coughlin, Director at The Hub, echoed this enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to embark on this pivotal phase of the Harris Your Place transformation. Our passionate team is eager to collaborate with our project partners to deliver an awe-inspiring collection of exhibitions. As Principal Contractor, we are committed to delivering a high quality and sustainable museum experience that fosters learning, creativity, and a deep connection with Preston’s cultural heritage.”
A Fusion of Heritage, Innovation, and Community
Over the coming months, The Hub and its appointed specialist sub-contractors will deliver a dynamic blend of past and present through bespoke high-quality craftsmanship focused on sustainable solutions. Drawing from the museum’s vast collection of over 200,000 objects, the exhibitions will utilise sustainable exhibits to reimagine storytelling—blending traditional displays with interactive, cutting-edge installations.
Each gallery will be meticulously delivered to the highest level of quality to captivate and engage, offering visitors ‘wow moments’ that transport them into different eras and cultures. High-impact, bespoke exhibits will not only showcase the museum’s treasures but also spark curiosity and wonder in every visitor.
A Cultural Heartbeat for Preston
Beyond its stunning galleries, the revitalised Harris will be a vibrant civic space, to inspire creativity, play, and learning. One such highlight is The Studio— bespoke displays and furniture create a welcoming and interactive environment, where visitors can immerse themselves in imaginative activities, join educational sessions, or simply relax and soak in the museum’s atmosphere.
To deepen community engagement and leave a lasting impact, The Hub will implement an extensive community engagement programme including behind-the-scenes tours and work opportunities, ensuring the people of Preston play an active role in shaping the museum’s future.
Looking Ahead: A New Era for The Harris
As the transformation unfolds, anticipation builds for the grand reopening of The Harris in late 2025. Once complete, this landmark project will cement The Harris as a cultural powerhouse, attracting visitors from near and far to experience its unparalleled blend of history, creativity, and community spirit.
With The Hub at the helm, the Harris Your Place project is set to redefine what a museum can be—a place where the past meets the future, and where every visitor leaves inspired.
To read more about this magnificent development visit: www.theharris.org.uk/harrisyourplaceinformation
