queens park arts centre
Client
Queens Park Arts Centre (QPAC)
Location
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
Status
Completion 2012
Value
£1-5m
Category
Performing Arts, Community, Education, Workplace
Role
Architect
project summary
QPAC approached Suzie Bridges to prepare a design study with costed proposals for a phased series of works that they could carry out over a number of years.
This small but vibrant community Arts Centre was in need of a mixture of refurbishment works, together with a rationalisation of their performing arts, crafts and ceramics studios in order that each space could be used independently. Piecemeal work over the years had led to a series of interlinked spaces which could not always be used concurrently. They were run down and often not fit for purpose in terms of lighting, acoustics and facilities.
This small but vibrant community Arts Centre was in need of a mixture of refurbishment works, together with a rationalisation of their performing arts, crafts and ceramics studios in order that each space could be used independently. Piecemeal work over the years had led to a series of interlinked spaces which could not always be used concurrently. They were run down and often not fit for purpose in terms of lighting, acoustics and facilities.
In addition, there was increased demand for community arts space, invigorated by the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre project.
Currently QPAC is in the process of fund raising for these works.
Suzie Bridges’ study investigated the strengths and weaknesses of the existing layouts and buildings, and offered an overall strategy for gradually upgrading the building. The largest and most important space was to be the new Studio Theatre, sited adjacent to the existing ceramics ovens. The foyers would provide new arts and crafts display areas for all students and touring exhibitions, as well as additional, flexible teaching space.
Currently QPAC is in the process of fund raising for these works.