Hull History Centre Development

The creation of the new Hull History Centre was a joint venture between Hull City Council and Hull University, bringing together the material held by the City Archives and Local Studies Library with those held by the University. Brookbanks were appointed to deliver the full mechanical, electrical, public health, and lift services design, supporting the creation of specialist archive environments alongside public, learning and community spaces.

Our Role

Our appointment covered the complete design of building services systems across the centre. From the outset, we worked closely with the wider design team to ensure that services were seamlessly integrated into the building fabric and aligned with the operational needs of both archive users and staff.

A key priority was delivering stable, carefully controlled internal environments suitable for archive storage and conservation work, while also providing comfortable, welcoming conditions for public and educational spaces. Through early collaboration and clear coordination, we ensured that services design supported both performance requirements and user experience.

Engineering & Design Strategy

Our engineering designs addressed a highly varied internal brief, encompassing archive storage, conservation laboratories, public reading rooms, teaching and learning facilities, staff offices and a visitor café. Particular attention was paid to the creation of close‑control environments for the conservation laboratory and BS5454‑compliant archive storage areas, where temperature and humidity stability are critical.

To support both performance and sustainability objectives, we undertook early thermal modelling to inform the design process. This enabled us to specify low‑energy and passive solutions, including natural ventilation where appropriate. By working closely with the architects, we also made effective use of the building’s exposed thermal mass to improve temperature stability and reduce reliance on mechanical systems.

Energy and Sustainability Considerations

Energy efficiency was embedded from the early design stages. Alongside passive design measures, we completed an energy review and incorporated provision for wind turbines as part of the broader sustainability strategy. These measures contributed to reducing operational energy demand while maintaining the tightly controlled environments required for archival use.

Through the combined impact of these approaches, the Hull History Centre achieved a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating, reflecting a balanced response to sustainability, operational performance and long‑term durability.

The Outcome

The completed Hull History Centre delivers a modern, high‑quality environment that brings together archive preservation, public access and learning under one roof. Our integrated building services design has enabled the creation of specialist archive conditions alongside flexible, accessible public spaces, supporting the long‑term stewardship of important historical collections.

By combining technical rigour with early collaboration and energy‑conscious design, we helped deliver a resilient and sustainable cultural building that meets exacting performance standards while serving the needs of the wider community.

If you would like to discuss this project or explore how we can support your development or public‑sector scheme, please get in touch with Keith Belding or Paul Rushmer.