The Pierhead Building is a Grade I listed building located in Cardiff Bay, Wales. It was built in 1897 and originally served as the headquarters of the Bute Dock Company. The building's architect was William Frame, who designed it in a mixture of Gothic and Renaissance styles.
The Pierhead Building is notable for its distinctive red terracotta cladding and clock tower, which is a prominent feature of the Cardiff Bay skyline. The clock tower was designed by James Williams and features four clock faces, each measuring around 2.5 meters in diameter. The tower is topped with a copper dome and weather vane.
After the Bute Dock Company was absorbed by the Port of Cardiff Authority in 1947, the Pierhead Building became the headquarters of the South Wales Transport Company. In 1975, the building was purchased by the Welsh Office and used as the home of the Welsh Arts Council.
Today, the Pierhead Building serves as a tourist attraction and events venue, hosting exhibitions, conferences, and cultural events throughout the year. It also houses an interactive visitor center called 'The Wales We Want', which explores Welsh history, culture, and politics. The building is open to the public seven days a week and is free to visit.