Heritage as a catalyst: Hull Maritime Museum to reopen following landmark transformation

The project secures the future of one of the UK's most significant maritime collections while creating a vibrant new cultural destination for the city.

The project, led by our York studio, has carefully restored and reimagined the Grade II*-listed former Dock Offices in Queen Victoria Square, revealing the building’s architectural significance while creating new contemporary galleries, learning spaces and visitor facilities fit for the 21st century. 

The reopening marks a major milestone in the wider Hull Maritime programme, a city-wide investment in Hull’s maritime heritage that is helping drive cultural regeneration across the city. By restoring historic assets, improving public spaces and creating new visitor experiences, the programme is reconnecting people with Hull’s maritime identity while supporting long-term economic growth. 

Working closely with Hull City Council and the wider project team, our approach sought to balance the conservation of the historic Dock Offices with the complex requirements of a modern museum. The project has carefully repaired and enhanced the Victorian building while introducing environmentally controlled gallery spaces capable of displaying nationally significant collections and hosting future exhibitions. 

The museum’s reopening represents more than the restoration of a landmark building. It demonstrates the power of heritage to act as a catalyst for regeneration, transforming a civic landmark into a cultural destination that will attract visitors, strengthen local pride and create new opportunities for communities to engage with Hull’s rich maritime story. As Hull continues to invest in its maritime heritage, the museum will form the centrepiece of a wider visitor experience that includes the restored Spurn Lightship, the Arctic Corsair and the transformation of Queen’s Gardens. 

Hull Maritime Museum exemplifies how heritage can be a catalyst for change. By investing in historic places and the stories they hold, cities can create meaningful cultural experiences, stimulate regeneration and strengthen connections between people, place and identity. 

We are proud to have played a role in bringing this important project to life and look forward to seeing visitors experience the renewed museum when it opens this summer.