Appointment to design the next phase of Albany Theatre redevelopment

Robothams Architects have been appointed by the Albany Theatre, Coventry to design the next phase of this important arts venue’s redevelopment. The City Council’s decision to provide funding support for the project and planning consent granted in November 2020 has resulted in the scheme proceeding in 2021. The first phase will bring improvements to the existing Studio Theatre, 3 new Studios, a new Café and improved audience and community facilities. Subsequent phases will deliver a new entrance from Albany Road and seek to consolidate the back of house spaces.

Above, an image of the proposed new entrance for the theatre. 

Above, an image of the theatre’s first phase completed in 2018, lighting design by Stewart Associates.

Stratford library reopens after a major refurbishment

Stratford library has re-opened to the public after a 10 month refurbishment which has seen Registration Services relocate into the building from its previous home at Winton House. The refurbishment has involved the creation of new spaces, upgrade to services infrastructure and re-fit of the ground floor library space.

Working within the listed building the scheme has required a high level of engagement with the District Council’s conservation officer and detailing sensitive to the various periods of the original building.

More detail about the scheme can be found in our previous news post.

Official opening of Rendcomb College’s Arts Centre

On Friday Jonathan Suffolk, the National Theatre’s Technical Director officially opened the school’s new arts centre. The Griffin Centre includes a 350-seat auditorium, mirrored dance studio with ballet barres and a sprung floor, dressing rooms, prop and set workshop and costume store. Set into the historic landscape of the school the building is the first to be built on the site for 27 years.

The opening ceremony included performances from the pupils including ballet and contemporary dance in the bespoke dance studio, poetry and an excerpt from the school’s production of Agatha Christie’s ‘And Then There Were None’.

For more information see the project case study on our website.