thePlace
This project entailed the construction of a major performing arts facility and offices in the West Sunniside Conservation area of Sunderland as part of a massive regeneration programme.
The project involved the conversion of three existing Grade II houses and a new build on the adjoining site of the former Manor Hotel.
The existing three storey properties were originally built in the 1870s and have been converted to modern offices which involved strengthening all the floors and opening up the basements in two of the three houses. All the original features of deep skirting boards, cornices and sash windows etc have been retained or replicated wherever possible.
The key feature of the new build centre is the Brie Solaire sun shading system to the front of the building - two sets of 42 panels of glass set in a carrier which automatically turns the panels to match the movement of sunlight so that the building always receives the maximum shade.
Internally, the street level cafe opens up into a huge 20m x 6m atrium, which goes up the three storeys of offices, meeting rooms and exhibition spaces, and then onto the main stage and performance area. The building also features an open roof terrace, zinc roofing and cladding and a rainwater harvesting.
In 2008, the development won the Office Development Award and was also Runner-up in the Environmental category in the prestigious Landmark Awards.
Client: City of Sunderland
Value: £6 million
Location: Sunderland