st john's catholic cathedral, portsmouth
conservation & repair
Emma Mullen has been Cathedral Architect to St John's since 2023, commencing with a comprehensive quinquennial inspection report (on behalf of St Ann's Gate Architects).
The Cathedral building was constructed between 1182 and 1906 in four phases; the final one of which was an extension to the west end of the Nave, including west porch and turrets. This being built onto reclaimed land, structural movement is an ongoing concern as Cathedral Architect.
advice & oversight
The Cathedral building forms part of a larger Estate, including Cathedral/ Bishop's House and St Edmund's House, which includes the Discovery Centre and offices for the Catholic Diocese of Portsmouth.
The role of Cathedral Architect includes advising the Dean and Diocese regarding all buildings on the Estate, which are covered by the grade II listing of the main Cathedral building. This requires coordination with other specialist consultants, contractors and communicating effectively with the client team.
strategic planning
As Cathedral Architect, the role includes strategic project planning; advising the client team and prioritising works arising from the quinquennial inspection; considering both long and short term aims, within budget constraints.
