Watford Colosseum
Subscribe now to instantly view this image
Subscribe to the Architects’ Journal (AJ) for instant access to the AJ Buildings Library, an online database of nearly 2,000 exemplar buildings in photographs, plans, elevations and details.
Already a subscriber? Sign in
Anthony Coleman (website) Download Original
Restoration and technical upgrade of a grade II listed Art Deco concert hall and the addition of foyer space
The scheme enabled the venue to host a wider variety of performances and events. New and updated restaurant and bar facilities as well as spaces for seminars and meetings during the day were also provided.
The upgrading of the Concert Hall was minimal in order to to retain its acoustic. The worn timber linings and organ screen surround were fully restored. The technical installation was replaced and a new colour scheme was adopted to reflect its range of uses.
Audience comfort, through a modern ventilation system, and visibility of the stage has been improved. The hall has been re-lit to improve it's sustainability when in operation.
The extension building features contrasting grey brick facades to the original building and large areas of coloured glazing.
A natural ventilation strategy for the new foyer utilises a simple displacement system with low level air intake and high level extract via the coloured lantern light.
Data
- Begun: Jul 2010
- Completed: Aug 2011
- Sector: Arts and culture
- Total cost: £5.5M
- Address: Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN, United Kingdom
Professional Team 
- Architect: RHWL
- Project architects: Anniek Wasser, Barry Prichard, Julian Middleton
- Client: HQ Theatres Ltd, Watford Borough Council
- Project manager: Day & Johnson Ltd
- Theatre consultant: Carr & Angier
- Structural engineer: Curtins Consulting Engineers
- M&E engineer: ME Consultants
- Acoustic consultant: Arup Acoustics
- Quantity surveyor: Day & Johnson Ltd
- Main contractor: Kier London