Stanley Arts - Phase 01

The Gallery refurbishment project is a modest initial phase in a longer term masterplan to improve physical access, economic and environmental sustainability across the whole Grade II listed site. Works sought to densify and diversify uses (beyond storage and the existing, redundant bar), by introducing new supporting infrastructure strengthening the economic viability of the venue. W.F.Stanley was an Edwardian philanthropist, establishing a technical school and arts venue on the site for the ‘betterment of the community’. Since then, the building has transitioned into the hands of that community- shifting a balance of power, ownership and agency. As the traditional back of house team increasingly inhabits the entire building￾affording it a vitality and vibrancy- CWa’s design approach sought to reflect this underlying theme. New interventions speak of the pragmatism of set building, encouraging ‘behind the curtain’ sensibilities to bleed through and engage with the rich materiality of historic ‘front of house’ spaces. Simple structures of birch faced ply blend with marble counter and brass detailing: playfully in keeping with the site's character; cheerful, lively and a touch theatrical. Meanwhile, repeated vertical elements catch the oblique view- echoing the deep frames of the gallery’s original hang. New double glazed clerestory windows improve thermal efficiency of the space through winter, their actuated casements improve natural ventilation through the summer. Progressing through Covid lockdowns, material inflation and construction industry volatility, this was not an easy project to deliver, but it is one the team are proud of. After several months of use, the reopened Gallery is thriving with life and activity, already acquiring new layers of appropriation, inhabitation and patina