National Glass Centre

Phase 1 - by September 2012

An impression of the newly remodelled shop and glass facade of the Hot Glass Studio on the lower ground floor.

Phase 2 - by Summer 2013

Preliminary visuals of how the heritage gallery on the upper floor will look. Three 'pavillions' will each house a different theme examing different aspects of glassmaking history in Sunderland.

Above and below: these sketches show the single volume gallery space for temporary exhibitions. A smaller seperate gallery at the back can accommodate long-term loaned collections.

Floor Plans

Phase One

Improvements made to the lower floor:

• Hot glass studios combined and refurbished
  
• New live glass blowing demonstration theatre
  
• Remodelled shop
  
• New flameworking studio/demonstration area
  
• New accommodation for art and design foundation programme

Phase Two

Improvements made to the upper floor:

• Improved welcome/reception area and signage
  
• New exhibition galleries
  
• Interactive heritage gallery charting the history of glassmaking in Sunderland
  
• Modern education and resource rooms for schools, groups and students
  
• ‘Green’ technology in the hot glass studio for better sustainability and energy efficiency