2024 Study Trip: John Rylands Research Institute and Library, Manchester

GRAS visited Manchester city centre as part of our annual study trip to gain insight and ideas from buildings and sites both new and old. A core part of this is looking at historic buildings to both gain new perspectives on past architectural design and also to look at the challenges and exciting possibilities of working with existing buildings.

Our short visit to the John Rylands Library, opened in 1900, was a fascinating look at a building constructed to house a collection of rare books and manuscripts. Built in neo-gothic style, the library is now part of a larger research institute and part of the University of Manchester. Open to the public at no charge, the library itself is an incredible example of holistic design, with every ornate fitting and fixture being purpose-designed to fit into the space. Even the cast metal radiator covers are a work of art!

As you might expect from a building of this age type, built to house rare artefacts, internal lighting levels are low due to the old-fashioned fittings and need to protect contents, and physical access is challenging and can’t readily be altered in the most significant spaces. Circulation has already been improved with the introduction of a new side extension with entrance ramps and lift access, and a fire detection system has been discreetly installed, but the gallery and teaching spaces are now in the process of being upgraded by Donald Insall Associates as part of a £7.6m investment. We’ll have to revisit after completion in 2025 to see the full results.

Text by Zoë Alston
Photography by Paula Szturc