Vestry Wardrobes for Wakefield Cathedral

Our design challenge

Wakefield Cathedral has a beautiful collection of ceremonial garments which are used throughout the church year. The Dean approached us to design some special vestry wardrobes for their safekeeping when not in use as the existing cupboards were old and damaged.

The wardrobes were to be built to fit a room with beautiful stonework and iconic architectural features so the cathedral was looking to us for something that would be in keeping with the surroundings and in harmony with some of the other furniture we had designed for them, including an altar, ambo and choir stalls.

How we built these vestry wardrobes

Our first task was to gain a real understanding of how the vestry room is used and its role in cathedral life. We walked through the practical everyday use of the room and garments before planning the wardrobe design in detail.

The Dean and the rest of the project team talked us through the church calendar and how different items need to be stored together. Underfloor heating in the crypt meant we had to make sure the furniture would withstand heat from below and not interfere with air flow from the grates.

The design was influenced by the stunning architectural features of the room which included vaulted ceilings and octagonal stone pillars. Three separate wardrobes were made using oak and walnut with a split frame and panel door design, tapered legs and an oak cornice. Solid brass was used to create the hanging rails inside the wardrobes, a special external garment rail for use just before a service and an espagnolette locking system.

We love

The little cubby holes we designed where the clergy can store personal belongings and the extra storage space above one of the wardrobes for items that are only used occasionally.

We also loved being part of the wonderful team at Wakefield Cathedral for yet another project that will help it serve its community.