Designing the Future from the Past
The Grange, Farm Road, Street, Somerset, BA16 0BQ
A fascinating talk by the architect behind the newly built Shoemakers Museum in Street – a landmark celebrating the rich history of shoemaking.
In this exclusive event for Heritage Open Days, Alasdair Ferguson from Purcell Architects in Bristol, will take you on a journey into the design intent behind the creation of Shoemakers Museum from initial concept to final construction.
Learn how the design blends modern architectural techniques with heritage and sustainable materials to honour the legacy of Streets architectural heritage.
There will be time for questions and discussion after the talk, including a tour, offering a unique opportunity to explore how history and design can come together in meaningful and inspiring ways.
As a senior Architect at Purcell for nearly four years, Alasdair is comfortable delivering complex projects across all stages—from new builds to Grade I listed conservation, across a range of sectors.
His philosophy emphasizes sensitivity, context, and joyful spaces, particularly thriving when designing within constraints, Alasdair approaches existing buildings as opportunities to reuse and retell, framing history through contemporary design.
The Shoemakers Museum project holds special significance for Alasdair as it celebrates people – the generations of Street families who've invested in this 200-year-old brand.
Timings & Tours
- Friday 19 September:
- 11am
Location & directions
The Grange, Farm Road, Street, Somerset, BA16 0BQ
- Directions:
- Entrance is via Clarks Village. Please note there is no access off Farm road. To find us, head to Car park two for Clarks Village - located opposite the restaurant terrace.
- Contact on day:
- Sam Cullen
- Telephone number:
- +441458444060
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking preferred
- Booking conditions:
- https://shoemakersmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/ There will be tickets available on the day from Shoemakers Museum reception
- Booking contact name:
- Samantha Cullen
- Booking telephone number:
- +441458444060
- Booking email:
- [email protected]
- Booking website:
- https://shoemakersmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/
- Booking opens:
- 18 Aug 2025 12:00 AM
- Booking closes:
- 19 Sep 2025 12:00 AM
Accessibility details
https://www.clarksvillage.co.uk/en/plan-my-visit/parking
Additional information
Shoemakers Museum itself is not free as part of Heritage Open Days but tickets will be available outside of this talk. Access to this talk is completely free for Heritage Open Days.
- Max no of people per tour:
- 20
- Est. tour duration:
- 1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
