The Grade I Bluecoat School is Liverpool’s oldest city centre structure and dates from 1722. This former charity school building became one of the country’s first art centres and in the early 20th century held the UK’s first exhibition of post-impressionist painting. The Practice has played a key role in developing the future of the Bluecoat building, through its Conservation Management Plan and Condition Survey. The new wing envisaged in our plan has been designed by others; but we were retained to repair, alter and restore the historic fabric of the existing building. The re-instated 19th century dining hall now contains a café and provides a central hub to the complex. Opened during Liverpool’s year as European Capital of Culture, the Bluecoat continues as an outstandingly successful pioneering arts centre.