Graduation ceremonies for Goldsmiths, University of London will be back in the Great Hall in summer 2020 after completion of a £1.3million maintenance programme. The historic space will once more be available for the local community.
The Great Hall is one of the foremost acoustic venues in London and is the largest single space at the university. It was created in 1891 and is based on a design by J.W. Penfold.
The space, which can seat up to 580 people in the auditorium and 140 in the balcony, has hosted a multitude of events, including live television broadcasts, debates, recitals, concerts, graduation ceremonies, meetings, conferences and exhibitions.
The project saw specialist teams refurbishing the lantern and change the external roof glazing which sits over the internal windows as well as creating new access to ensure easier maintenance in the future.
The project also saw some of the delicate original internal glazing in the Grade II-listed building given its first clean for up to 30 years.
Anja Soetbeer, Associate Director of Estates and Facilities at Goldsmiths, said: “The Great Hall is an important part of our campus and a landmark for New Cross. Investing in our estate like this ensures it is available for use by everyone at Goldsmiths and the local community.”
Now the hall, is back in use for activities like student orchestra rehearsals, community bookings and the graduation ceremonies. Students and staff will particularly welcome the return of graduation to New Cross this summer after moving to the QE2 Centre in Westminster while the works were undertaken.