New exhibition design and wayfinding scheme for Grade 1-listed John Rylands Library, Manchester By: Nissen Richards Studio The £7.6m transformation of the Grade I-listed John Rylands Library in Manchester – one of Europe’s finest neo-Gothic buildings and one of the great libraries of the world – is now complete, as the centrepiece of the Library’s 125th anniversary in 2025. The project, named ‘John Rylands Next Chapter’, was undertaken to protect and evolve one of Manchester’s most important, iconic and best-loved buildings. It was led by conservation architecture practice Donald Insall Associates, who worked in collaboration with Nissen Richards Studio, with the latter charged with the scheme’s permanent and temporary exhibition design structures and new wayfinding throughout. The project focus was the sensitive upgrade to key areas in order to enhance visitor engagement and to ensure that the much-loved Rylands building can respond to and cater for the challenges of the next generation. Professor Christopher Pressler, University Librarian and Director of The John Rylands Library, commented: “The John Rylands Library is one of Britain’s most iconic buildings, with a remarkable story behind its establishment. It is filled with wonderful collections and amazing people. The Next Chapter project has been a richly … Continue reading A Grade 1 Icon Reimagined for the Next Century