Swaffham Community Centre
A development of a new, low energy multi functional community centre on a sensitive location at the boundary of the Swaffham conservation area.
The requirement was to demolish and replace the previous centre with a building providing considerably more accommodation to meet the needs of the local community. The new building is single storey with two double storey height halls constructed at the bottom of the site taking advantage of the fairly steep fall in levels. The impact of the increased mass of building is further reduced by the creation of what appears to be a collection of smaller buildings, using different forms, colours and materials.
The design philosophy of the centre focused on creating spaces that can be used by as many people and for as many purposes as possible. Particular attention was paid during the design phase to the entrance sequence, lighting and setting as well as the structure. This was to ensure that the community centre is very accessible to all users and a friendly space to enter. The building provides office space for a number of community and voluntary groups, and IT learning suite, creche, two function halls and a café.
The design of the Centre embraces environmentally friendly technology; an extensive sedum roof, heart recovery installation and underfloor heating.
Swaffham Community Centre
Swaffham Community Centre
Swaffham Community Centre
Swaffham Community Centre
Swaffham Community Centre
Swaffham Community Centre
