Building record 1160/441/20 - Physio Hall

{1} This structure was constructed between 1901 and 1926. It stands on the north side of the main workhouse complex, and replaced a number of smaller structures, including a shoemakers and mat makers shops. As the site had not become a hospital by this date, the hall must have been intended for some other function. As it buts onto the north side of the kitchen, and a serving hatch survives on its south side, it was probably built as a dining hall.
It is a large rectangular structure, built in red brick laid in Flemish Bond. Window and door openings are surmounted by curving brick lintels, composed of two rows of stretchers. Windows to the east, north and west sides are tall, 6-pane fixtures, intended to provide a light interior to the building. The roof is Welsh slate, with projecting gables to the north and south.
Internally, the high roof is carried on five arched beams, supported on the piers separating the main windows. A modern suspended ceiling made it difficult to record details of the original ceiling. The hall is largely undivided: there are a series of small rooms along the west wall, housing toilets, a store and office, but these are of relatively recent origin.

<1> Zeepvat B., 2004, Historic Building Survey: St Edmund's Hospital, Wellingborough Road, Northampton, p.34 (checked) (Report). SNN104796.

Record last edited

Jun 16 2008 10:27AM