The Place

The overall objective was to create a landmark building as a catalyst for regeneration in the Sunniside area of Sunderland.

The brief was to provide an accessible building and a hub for small business users whilst also providing a meeting point, exhibition space and café.

It was always intended that it would include both an element of new build and an element of refurbishment, bringing a number of existing listed buildings back into use.

The key to this was to manage a multitude of level changes within the existing buildings by accessing them through the new build element. The louvres on the south facade of the building are designed to rotate to follow the path of the sun. The design of the glass louvres with integral artwork was one of a bespoke design with innovative methods of construction and technological innovation in the use of glass. There is a high level of sustainability integral to the building including rainwater harvesting, natural ventilation systems, low water usage, improved levels of insulation, choice of materials and methods of construction.