We are supported by an excellent team with huge experience of working with historic buildings. Most of the design team has been working on the project since 2017.

 

Alex Homfray, Project Director

 

What is your role on the Hallelujah Project (HP)?
I am Project Director leading the Hallelujah Project. I manage the design team and building works, and am also producing the new business plan for the museum, and supporting fundraising.

 

What milestones has the project reached so far?
It’s been a long journey to get to this point! Three years of research, design, fundraising and planning. Right now, we are mid-way through construction. We have stripped out the awful 20th century alterations to the building and we are reinstating the Georgian rooms and frontage. The next big task is to install a modern climate control system that – hidden under floors and behind panelling – will keep our visitors and collection comfortable all year round. Meanwhile we are designing new displays with input from leading Handel experts, and acquiring more artworks and objects.

 

What excites you about the project?
My passions are giving people inspiring cultural experiences; and helping cultural organisations to run entrepreneurially and sustainably. I am also a massive advocate for London’s amazing music heritage, which needs to be better preserved and celebrated.

The Hallelujah Project presses all these buttons. It will transform Handel & Hendrix into a prominent cultural destination that inspires a wide audience with Handel and Hendrix’s stories and their music. The restored museum will welcome more visitors and host concerts, masterclasses and exclusive private events. The income will be reinvested in our heritage and our learning programme.

What are the most challenging aspects of leading such a complex project?

It is complex to restore a Grade-1 listed building that has been heavily meddled with. And it’s no secret that we’re delivering at a challenging time. I am grateful for our wonderful design and construction team, who care deeply about the project and go many extra miles to deliver. We have managed to overcome all the challenges so far… We can’t wait to share the results with you in 2023.