August 2007
Beverley Minster is one of the most magnificent churches of the York diocese, and indeed of England. Unsurprisingly therefore the construction of a permanent shop within its walls for the sale of cards, guide books and souvenirs caused considerable
controversy, with many designs over the years rejected either by the authorities or by the Friends of the Minster. Many considerations had to be taken into account when architects Wiles and Maguire were approached for a new scheme in 2005, and it is to their great credit that the project, when completed and dedicated in May this year, received such high praise from all sides.
The finished design (illustrated) reflects the medieval architecture of the Minster, with the curved elements of the front glass screen being composed of glass “fins” set on edge echoing the fluting of the Minster’s pillars, and the forged ironwork supports for the screen sculpted into the shape of crocketted finials. The overall effect is one of lightness and total consistency with its surroundings.