The award-winning Lowry Centre in Salford provides an important space for a showcase gallery dedicated to the work of the ever-popular artist L S Lowry.

Located right on the waterside of Salford Quay in Manchester, a previously derelict area that has undergone extensive redevelopment, the building surges out of the dockside like the prow of a ship.

The Lowry’s multi-functional purpose and canal-side location presented a number of complex challenges, as well as creative possibilities. To make the building more energy efficient, our building services team designed a water-cooled chilling system based on filtered canal water, using intake pipes to draw it into the condensers.

In addition to the galleries housing Lowry’s paintings, the building accommodates two performing spaces: a 466 seat adaptable studio theatre, modelled on the Swan in Stratford-upon-Avon; and a 1,730 seat three-tier auditorium. Both spaces are predominantly for touring theatre performances with an entry and scene dock placed to the side of the rear stage area. The complex also includes cafes, bars and a restaurant where visitors can enjoy the spectacular waterside views.