The group were joined by Joe Riordan from Architectural Emporium. Joe is working on the redevelopment of Touchstones and updated us on how the building is progressing as well as the designs for the exhibition casing. Having got a taster of what is to come, a number of the group went on a visit to Touchstones – meeting with the project and site managers to learn more about the redevelopment process.
Entering Touchstones for the first time since March, the building already feels transformed. The dark and dated museum furniture has been ripped out and the original windows, skylights and ceiling trusses have been revealed. Although there is still a long way to go, the area for the future Dining Room is now a bright, light and airy space. Taking boarding off of the windows has revealed a number of original stained glass designs, showcasing something of the buildings history. Leaving the building, we were filled with enthusiasm for the eventual opening and getting stuck in to shaping the heritage displays over the coming months.