The Abbey of Westminster - A newly discovered element is now named after King Charles.
London's Westminster Abbey, a renowned tourist destination and the historic site of royal coronation ceremonies and weddings, is set to receive a new reception hall. With visitors totaling over a million annually, the Gothic-style church built in the French design is all set to welcome them better in the future.
As per the British tabloid "Daily Mail," the reception hall, which is estimated to cost around 13 million pounds (approximately 15 million euros), will be funded entirely through donations. According to the report, the building will be named after King Charles III, crowned in the abbey on May 6, 2023.
A 2026 Completion:
The idea of creating a modern entrance with cash registers and security areas was conceived as early as 2019. However, the project was put on hold during the pandemic. Now, with the support of Charles III and the church dean, the ambitious plan seems to be on track for a 2026 completion.
Architect Ptolemy Dean:
The designs for the one-story annex were created by British architect Ptolemy Dean. As per the plans, the minimalistic building is expected to provide quite an impressive entrance while not detracting from the grandeur of the church itself.
Architecture Critic Tim Abrahams:
Anticipating some criticism, the "Daily Mail" quoted leading architecture critic Tim Abrahams as saying, "Charles wants his new buildings to be as small, anonymous, and invisible as possible, and this is certainly as small, anonymous, and invisible as possible." He went further, terming the new lobby a "very boring building" and a "missed opportunity" given the significant amount spent on the project.
In conclusion, the Westminster Abbey's new 13-million-pound reception hall is on track to open its doors in 2026, providing a better visitor experience while staying true to its regal exterior.
