New identity for important cultural asset as site prepares for full opening

05 June 2026

North Northamptonshire Council are today unveiling the new visual identity for an important site in Kettering - currently referred to as Cornerstone.

Following public feedback and a session with stakeholders in February, a clear direction was identified by the council:

• The historic building names must remain unchanged
• Any future identity must avoid the perception of an umbrella brand
• The identity should feel heritage led, authentic and rooted in place

Two options were then designed in-house, to reduce cost to the taxpayer, and shared with stakeholders for their input before the final design was amended and approved internally.

Going forward, each element of the site will have its own visual logo and be referred to by their original, historic names:

• Alfred East Gallery
• Kettering Library
• Manor House Museum
• Manor House Gardens

The aim is to preserve the distinct historic identities of each venue while introducing a subtle, contemporary connective device that helps visitors understand how buildings relate to each other physically and culturally.

With work coming to an end, and underbudget, on the replacement of the library and art gallery roof the council can now announce that the library will fully re-open in its old home from Monday 6 July 2026. To facilitate the move, the library will need to be closed to the public on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 July.

Once the library has moved, there may be a small amount of disruption whilst the final works are undertaken and the roof contractor leaves site. Work will also be undertaken to open the art gallery with the gallery team hosting an exhibition from Northamptonshire & Rutland Open Studios (the event will take place in the Garden Room onsite) before a formal opening takes place for the whole site to coincide with Northamptonshire Day at the end of October.

Sitting at the heart of Kettering, the library, museum, art gallery and gardens are much loved and well-used by residents and we’re so close to the site being fully operational.

This is more than just a logo, it’s about ensuring the building represents the heritage and history of the area as we move towards full re-opening the site.Cllr Greg Wilcox, the council’s Executive Member for Communities

I have always said we are a listening council and on this occasion - we heard the noise locally about the name ‘Cornerstone’ and committed to change.

Following a detailed process, which included input and thoughts from a fantastic group of local people who care so passionately for heritage and these wonderful buildings, I am pleased with the end result. The new identity acknowledges the heritage of the site and each individual component in a modern, fresh way that will stand the test of time.

This new identity is the final piece of a long, exciting project that has always looked to highlight the heritage of the town. I look forward to celebrating the whole site and the facilities on offer, alongside the new stunning library and art gallery roof which has come in well underbudget, at Northamptonshire Day in October.Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council

The council will look to reuse existing signage around the site as much as possible to minimise cost impacts.

More details about the full opening of the site will be published in due course.