Colchester City, Community Centre Update

Colchester City, Community Centre Update

Shape Architecture continues to transform buildings creating light filled, contemporary spaces.  This is never more the case than at our community project in Colchester, now nearing completion. Here a series of dilapidated buildings variously used as an indoor market and much else besides are being replaced with a community centre for local charity the Dacon Trust bringing all of their functions under one roof.  The existing façade has largely been retained and added to with a series of extensions to several sides of this prominent corner plot.  One extension serves to provide space for the charity’s art teaching and art gallery, the other supports their kitchen and the associated café.  The first floor provides further office and teaching facilities.

The new building sits well in a diverse setting.  To one side a church building, another a car park and supermarket.  A feature sedum roof, with light shafts set within the sedum roof, provides pleasing views across the building.  Large format glazing and entrance canopy provides a new entrance on another.  Feature brickwork banding and panels using a series of dog tooth coursing also helps provide interest.  There is much to commend this project as it moves towards completion.  We very much look forward to seeing the charity using this project, providing life and colour.