Hafod Morfa Copperworks Distillery & Visitor Centre, Swansea

Conservation Award sponsored by VELUX

GWP Architecture & Archer Humphryes for Swansea Council
Contract value: Confidential
GIA: 1,857m²

Located near the River Tawe in Swansea, Haford-Morfa Copperworks Distillery and Visitor Centre is the first phase of an ambitious local authority regeneration project. The project involved repairing and converting a former Victorian steam-engine powerhouse, which once provided electricity for the copperworks. It has also added an extension, built on the footprint of a lost wagon shed, plus a covered link to provide access into the wider site.

The new glazed extension provides the front door to the distillery, with a set-back upper floor, faced in barrel-like burnt timber cladding. The powerhouse, with its rebuilt clock tower, is the key landmark within this former industrial site and, along with the adjacent new-build components, is the nucleus for all phases of new work.   

The repair work to the building envelope is exemplary in terms of conservation practice, including partly rebuilding the stone outer walls with lime mortar, and replacing non-original internal cement render with limewash.

A new timber roof sits atop the original iron columns structure, with new stainless steel components integrated to discreetly strengthen the iron frame. Replacement ventilation hoods on the ridgeline assist in allowing the space to breathe naturally.  

Large replacement metal windows and glazed rooflights flood the main space with natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting. The conservation demands of a naturally ventilated cool space are ideally paired with the new distillery use.

New machinery, such as beautiful large copper stills, stainless steel pipework and ventilation ducts, snakes its way around the space. Delightfully integrated with the Victorian structure, it is a mesmerising display of distillation process engineering, exquisitely made. 

The project incorporates various cultural elements, including historical preservation, inclusivity and landscape design. Later phases of the landscape will work to create a cohesive site-wide visitor experience.  

The approach to the project emphasises sustainability and economic viability. It aims to catalyse the regeneration of the wider former copper works site and buildings, providing visitors with access and insight into Swansea’s industrial past.

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RIBA UK Awards 2025 sponsored by Autodesk, EH Smith, Equitone and VELUX