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Forming part of the larger network of the arts and cultural organisations in Salford and Greater Manchester, the theatre provides locals with a new performing arts space and community centre. The building is designed to encourage multifunctional use of its spaces, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the performances and to celebrate the theatre as a space for community, connection and learning.
Materiality is a key consideration of the project: cork is deployed for its excellent acoustic and insulation properties and, as a carbon-negative material, for its sustainability.
The public is invited to experience the theatre behind-the-scenes, through publicly visible rehearsal rooms and open access backstage areas, to encourage a sharing of the creative process.
The cutaway axonometric reveals the occupancy and relationship of spaces within the building proposal in the context of the site.
While the building has two chief functions – as a performing arts space and a community space – the spaces themselves are multifunctional. Foldable panels are also employed to widen spaces.
The building is made of modularised cork block for sustainability, insulation and sound qualities.
Atmospheric renders of the foyer and theatre space. The foyer outside of the theatre is placed opposite the rehearsal room to facilitate a dialogue between the two activities – performing and rehearsing.
To allow for more unconventional methods of theatre production, the terraces can be used as one of the performance spaces.