ARCHITECT DISCUSSES PLAN FOR MODERNISING MUSEUM

Press, Volume XC, Issue 27407, 21 July 1954, Page 3

ARCHITECT DISCUSSES PLAN FOR MODERNISING MUSEUM

Improved entrance foyer accommodation and lecture theatre plans were the chief topics of discussion between a representative of the architects and the building committee of the Canterbury Museum Trust Board yesterday afternoon, when the whole scheme for modernising the existing buildings of the museum and proposals for the new centennial memorial wing were reviewed. These talks—probably the last before plans are completed—took all the afternoon, and many final details were settled. It is now expected that working drawings will be ready by the middle of August; then there will be about twb months* wovk for quantity surveyors; and tenders will probably be called in November or December. A new entrance foyer in the position of the present museum office was one of the new features incorporated yesterday by rearrangements rather than expanded planning. Preserving the attractive old porch outside as the main entrance, the foyer scheme will give a more dignified entry to the galleries than the present straight corridor, and, it is also expected to lend itself to ' providing more pleasing access to the stairway to the upper galleries. In the earliest discussions on the

new wing, when the centennial appeal was launched, the provision of a lecture theatre for the growing public relations work of the museum was rated as essential As the demand for public lectures and demonstrations has since grown, many Christchurch societies specially interested in the exhibits of the museum have also indicated their desire to hold meetings in the building. Besides school classes, the theatre to seat about 300 will have amenities for film shows, demonstrations, and meetings, with direct access from Rolleston avenue, so that the need to open the museum proper in the evenings will be avoided. Yesterday’s talks concerned ways of giving the best possible facilities. Mr G. Wright represented the architects, Messrs Miller, White, and Dunn, of Dunedin. A considerable part of the funds required for the project is in hand from the proceeds of the centennial celebrations and subsequent appeals, made Through the schools and business organisations. A lot of money is still needed. It is probable that another appeal will be launched in the spring, so that all funds will be raised by the time building is started.