St. Michael's Buildings, Chester

Saint Michael's Buildings are a striking architectural feature on the east side of Bridge Street in Chester. This Grade II* listed structure, recorded in the National Heritage List for England, was completed in 1910 for the 2nd Duke of Westminster and designed by W.T. Lockwood. The building incorporates a section of Chester Rows, with shops at street level, along the Rows, and in an arcade that links to the Grosvenor Shopping Centre.

The original design featured a Bridge Street façade clad in cream and gold ceramic tiles (faience) with elaborate Baroque decoration. However, this bold design drew widespread public criticism for clashing with Chester’s Black-and-White Revival aesthetic. In response to a petition led by Chester City Council and the Bishop of Chester, the Duke replaced the façade with timber framing, aligning it with the city's historic architectural character.

The façade combines timber framing with plaster panels, green Westmorland slate roofing, and elements of brick and faience decoration. It features an E-plan layout, five stories, and five gables, with three projecting bays. Inside, the arcade is adorned with faience finishes, and modern shopfronts line its 20-unit retail space. The building also underwent a significant alteration in 2000, when the steps at the Bridge Street entrance were replaced for accessibility.

Structurally, the building likely incorporates a steel frame, supporting its blend of historical and modern architectural elements. With its rich history and adaptive design, Saint Michael's Buildings serve as a testament to Chester's dedication to preserving its unique urban heritage while accommodating modern commercial needs.