Wycombe Arts Centre

Located on the outskirts of High Wycombe Town Centre, the arts centre is located within a Grade II listed former church. The initial designs were never completed, leaving an unsympathetic roof form on the western façade, with no trace of ornate stone of the eastern and northern façades. Internally, well-preserved and impressive stone and timber detailing surround the three sides of the nave and the stage opening, greatly contrasting with the existing exterior of the building in a state of disrepair.

The arts centre also lacked adequate public access. Creating an accessible entrance for the venue was key, as well as a ticketing office, cloak rooms and large foyer. Our approach focused on prioritising conservation of the listed structure with minimal changes to the primary façades, as well as finding a sensitive solution to the unfinished western end tower to contain the bar, kitchen, entertainment facilities, a new lift and stair access through the venue. The subterranean arched vaults now provide a ramped access point and impressive entry point for the public.

Client

Wycombe Arts Centre

Status

Pre-Planning / Funding

Location

High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire

Images

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