Northwich Cultural Centre
ABOUT
Creating a sense of place is an essential guiding force behind our design process. This means establishing a deep relationship between the building and a newly constructed setting, both environmentally and physically.
The Cultural Centre, a new bridge, stepped terraces and a plaza will provide views to the river and the woodland, while at the same time shielding visitors from unwanted and unsightly views.
The building’s location is pivotal as an exciting iconic structure on the river. The proposal draws the surrounding places together, forming a focus for community activity.
The design of the Cultural Centre began with the distinct public elements of the brief (outdoor auditorium, restaurant, gallery, information, and ‘one stop shop’). These elements are positioned so that they frame views and access into the Cultural Centre, and also frame views out to the town and the countryside. These public activities are gathered around a new riverfront plaza and a generous interior foyer on the new ground formed above the flood plain. The bridge is conceived not only as a link to the west bank and surrounding parks but as a generous public space. This is a place where the restaurant and other gatherings can congregate.
Location:
Cheshire, UK
Project Year:
2009
Programme:
Public, cultural centre
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Team:
S333 Architecture + Urbanism