The Core

Set in the heart of Solihull town centre, this multi-purpose arts venue was in need of upgrading. The remodelling works at Solihull Arts Complex included creating a new Community Advice Hub, Solihull Connect and gallery, plus refurbishment works to the Box Office, Café and Theatre spaces. The space is light, bright and welcoming and has been well received by staff and customers alike.

Our Brief

· To provide an increased sense of openness

· Improve views into the Library

· Improve the coherence of the entrance foyer into the Library building by rationalising underused space and improving wayfinding.

· Provide improved stair to First Floor facilities

· Improve access to Arts Complex and Solihull Connect.

· Incorporate a new Information and Advice Hub at First Floor.

· Encourage use of the foyer for members of the public to sit informally, purchase refreshments, read newspapers and access WIFI on personal tablets.

· Develop a holistic signage, branding and advertisement strategy.

· To rationalise lines of security

· To provide a dedicated box office

· To increase the profile and presence of the theatre at both levels.

· To improve the appearance and functioning of the theatre foyers.

· Refurbish the Theatre

· To provide Exhibition Space/Creative Learning Zone (70sqm):

· Improve operational function of the cafe and increase covers.

· To create a new first floor bar.

· To create a library self service area.

· To provide a new heritage area, study areas and shared use areas in the library.

· To create a new changing places facility.

Proposals

Box office view 2A - Final render 150420.jpg

The design proposals completely transform the facility with a brave and bold colour scheme. This creates a unified feel to the entire facility. Our design includes:

· A new glazed entrance lobby which improves thermal comfort within the entrance foyer area.

· The removal of existing glazed screens within the entrance foyer enables a better connection and visibility to all facilities within the building.

· Improved floor to ceiling height by removing suspended ceilings and exposing the soffits.

· A new main circulation stair and void to first floor enables better connection to the facilities at First Floor.

· A new feature box office and self service area.

· Brand new interview pods and meeting rooms for use by the Third Sector.

· New ceilings and lighting

· Refurbishment of the theatre with a continuation of the branding and colour scheme.

PROJECT SUMMARY

Project Name: The Core

Project Type: Refurbishment & Internal Alterations

Sector : Libraries, Arts, Customer Services, Third Sector

Service: Architecture & Interior Design

Value: circa £2.4m

Status: Completed 2016