RBS retained the key architectural features of the existing building to preserve its heritage whilst creating a state-of-the-art, modern, flexible space. The new layout enabled both charities to thrive, offering creative pursuits in dedicated spaces. Kirkgate Centre benefited from an upscaled layout that complemented the needs of its occupants, including a main hall, five activity rooms, a cafeteria, and a staff office. Hive benefited from upgraded spaces within their Craft, Pottery, and Woodwork rooms, with ancillary storage, an office/reception area, a breakout area, and an additional activity space.
Ultimately, the building was revitalised to be more energy efficient, cheaper to run, with better sound transfer, improved circulation, accessibility, and wayfinding—enabling the charities to offer services to tackle social isolation, promote wellbeing, and provide cultural and artistic activities for families.
The project involved the extensive refurbishment and extension of an ageing historic school building to create a new community hub.
The new community hub in Shipley enabled two charitable organisations; the Hive and the Kirkgate Centre to work in partnership. The refurbishment was designed to be a cost-efficient and sustainable community hub, operating on a reduced carbon footprint, where both charities were able to thrive whilst offering creative pursuits in dedicated spaces.
