Charterhouse
Location: Coventry
Client: Historic Coventry Trust
Architect: PCPT Architects with BPN Architects
Value: £8m
Coventry Charterhouse is a Grade I listed 14th-century Carthusian monastery and one of only nine of its kind ever constructed in Britain.
The site, also designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, holds exceptional historic value, including rare surviving medieval wall paintings. Owned by Historic Coventry Trust, the project aimed to conserve the monastery while transforming it into a public heritage visitor centre and educational destination. The site is also located within the Flood Plain of the River Sherborne.





The project required extensive conservation within a highly protected historic structure containing fragile medieval fabric and nationally significant wall paintings. Archaeological sensitivities across the site limited ground disturbance and required careful foundation strategies for new structures. Structural deterioration in the timber roof and floors required strengthening while preserving historic elements. Additionally, modern visitor facilities, accessibility improvements and new buildings had to be introduced in a way that respected the monastery’s architectural and archaeological significance. The extent of works impacted the Flood Plain requiring close consultation with the Environment Agency to ensure adequate mitigation against flooding and loss of Flood Plain storage.

The restored Charterhouse and heritage park have been successfully reopened to the public as a heritage and learning destination.
Visitor facilities now include a shop, conference space and a contemporary timber and glass café extension that complements the historic setting. Archaeological discoveries across the grounds informed the recreation of two monks’ cells and extensive landscape restoration, including improved parking and bridge repairs. Supported by a £4.7m grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project safeguards an internationally significant site for future generations.
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