The Backhouse Gallery project is centred around a new fine art gallery showing major works of Spanish art in the conversion of the former Backhouse bank building and adjoining Barrington office building. The existing Backhouse building has heritage listed status and sits within the Market Square of Bishop Auckland, a short walk from Auckland Castle.

In addition to the conversion, a new contemporary 2-storey extension will be added to the rear of the Gallery building and there will be contemporary library and café area.

The aspiration is that along with paintings currently hung in Auckland Castle, additional paintings will come on loan from the Museo Nacional del Prado in Madrid, Spain's national gallery. This requires the building design to meet particular standards for fire and security.

The fire strategy was developed to meet the Building Regulations for Life Safety and to consider contents and property protection to the heritage listed building and the paintings on display.

Advanced smoke detection using VESDA was recommend for all gallery areas in conjunctions with a high degree of compartmentation to limit fire and smoke spread, which was strategically introduced so as to provide an open gallery space, which is a strong architectural driver.

Client: Auckland Castle

Architect: Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios