Ely Cathedral
A legacy of conservation and care
Purcell provided over 50 years of dedicated care to Ely Cathedral, beginning with the appointment of our founder, Donovan Purcell, as Cathedral Architect in 1960. His stewardship was later passed to Jane Kennedy, who served the Cathedral until 2017.
The work at Ely has been foundational to Purcell’s legacy: while our practice has grown considerably over the decades, this legacy continues to inspire generations of architects who have followed in Purcell's footsteps, caring for many of the UK’s greatest cathedrals and a wide range of cherished heritage assets.
The Lady Chapel
In the mid-20th century, the Lady Chapel was re-floored using modern materials that were unsympathetic to its historic character. Following detailed archaeological investigation and careful analysis of environmental conditions, we designed a new patterned floor in Purbeck marble, reinstating a sense of historical continuity.
To protect the chapel’s delicate stone carvings and surviving medieval paintwork, the floor incorporates low-temperature underfloor heating, reducing harmful condensation and promoting a stable internal environment.
The Lady Chapel
The Processional Way
The Processional Way is the first significant addition to the cathedral since the early 16th century West Tower. Our design recreates the Lady Chapel’s original medieval entrance and follows meticulous archaeological research and excavation. The passage is built in Clipsham stone with a green oak roof and has an adjacent staff kitchen and WC. The window design was developed from the cloisters and its carved, gilded glass roof bosses were created in collaboration with a glazier and sculptor.
Masterplan
We also completed a masterplan for the cathedral estate as a whole. This exciting and carefully considered proposals has given a clear path for the cathedral to continue its centuries-old mission well into the 21st century and beyond.
Details
- Client Dean and Chapter of Ely Cathedral
- Team Cambridge Studio
- Location Ely, Cambridgeshire
- Country United Kingdom
- Listing Status Grade I
