Preston Park Museum and Grounds Opens  

The 2,000sqm extension creates modern, fit for purpose collections, archive and exhibition spaces. It forms a new welcoming entrance to the museum, enhancing the visitor experience by reimagining the journey through the new and existing building. New dedicated spaces allow more objects to be displayed in line with the Arts Council initiatives to make collections more accessible.  

The Spence Building is sensitive to the existing heritage asset, connected by a lightweight glazed street to minimise the impact on the existing listed structure. The building tones complement the existing building and sit comfortably in the wider landscape.  

The building follows the principles of BS16893 Conservation of Cultural Heritage where it provides value to the museum. Exhibition spaces are accredited to enable the museum to attract nationally significant touring exhibitions. 

Following the newly refurbished Park Café, toilets, and play areas, the Spence Building plays a key part in the wider plans for the Park. 

Steven Ford, architectural director at Ryder, said: “We’re delighted to see the Spence Building open to the public – the result of close collaboration with the museum and Stockton Borough Council to create unique spaces to showcase the history of the region’s people and place, while also attracting exciting new exhibitions. I have fond memories of visiting Preston Park Museum as a child, and I’m looking forward to taking my own family to experience the new spaces as they grow up.” 

The Spence Building also introduces a bright and welcoming retail and café area, offering families a relaxed space to enjoy refreshments or purchase a souvenir. Bespoke plywood retail fixtures sit strikingly against the original brickwork and offer flexible organisation for the retail team. Playful design details such as cogs and wheels provide moments of engagement for children within the space too. Within the new permanent exhibition space, the museum’s collections are showcased as a treasure trove of discovery, with vibrant colour themes adding energy and creating a fun, interactive learning environment for younger visitors. 

Gabrielle Fryett, associate interior designer at Ryder, commented: “This extension transforms the museum experience at Preston Park, seamlessly blending heritage with modern design. From vibrant exhibition space to a family friendly café and shop, the new spaces are welcoming, engaging, and accessible for everyone.” 

Councillor Nigel Cooke, Cabinet Member for Environment, Leisure and Culture at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: “We all know that Preston Park is a key asset and much-loved venue, but this investment is a real triumph for the Borough. It is a destination attraction that will bring visitors from around the region and the rest of the UK to Stockton-on-Tees.

“Residents will also have the chance to see national and touring exhibitions on their doorstep, without having to travel far and wide.

“The new extension and wider park improvements provide a huge enhancement to Preston Park’s offer, bringing objects of importance and quality that have never been seen before in the area, as well as providing an attractive space for people to enjoy.”