Design Team Appointed For Belfast Stories Project

Belfast City Council has appointed an integrated design team for Belfast Stories, a flagship project of the £850 million Belfast Region City Deal.

The project which is led by Belfast City Council and supported by RIBA is set to open by 2029 at the 1931 Art Deco Bank of Ireland site on Royal Avenue.

The architectural appointment is a partnership between Oslo-based, Snøhetta, and Belfast-based TODD Architects. Gleeds, has been appointed to oversee project management and design assurance.

The 5,000m² site will be transformed into an interactive, and immersive visitor experience that celebrates the stories of Belfast and provide social spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: "Appointing a design team is a significant milestone and we’re grateful to all those involved in the international design competition for supporting us to attract the highest calibre of talent to match the ambition we have for this unique destination.

"Belfast Stories will transform a much-loved heritage site and continue the regeneration of this part of the city centre, as well as becoming a vibrant place for people from Belfast and further afield to come together and share in the unique character of this place and its people.

"We look forward to inviting residents to support this unique opportunity as the appointed team determine a design that reflects local contributions."

Whilst work on the design is yet to start, it is intended that the site will become Belfast's greatest example of a climate resilient building.

Robert Greenwood, Partner and Director at Snøhetta, said: "We are delighted to be appointed alongside TODD Architects and Gleeds to bring this truly transformative landmark project to life.

"We recognise the building and its adjacent site have the potential to become a bold architectural statement that Belfast can be proud of. We share in Belfast City Council’s vision and collectively offer the insight and experience to create a space that will improve the vibrancy and aesthetic of this part of the city, but we also recognise how excellent architecture can deliver community benefits and have lasting cultural impact."

Tourism NI’s Chief Executive Officer, John McGrillen, commented: "The project has the potential to revitalise the city centre and contribute to the ongoing transformation of the city.

"Belfast is the gateway to the region - attracting people to this authentic and vibrant city is essential to the growth of the tourism industry across Northern Ireland. We are a nation of storytellers and storytelling is at the core of our experience brand as it allows us to share our Giant Spirit with the many visitors who come here.

"Belfast Stories aims to showcase this trait and to create a world class attraction which will allow visitors to explore and understand Belfast and Northern Ireland through our people’s lived experiences."

In early 2024, Belfast Stories will be launching a Stories Network which will be an open forum for anyone to find out more about the project and meet the design team.