Matson
Henderson
Architects
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projects / arts & commercial
WEST CORK ARTS CENTRE
Skibberreen , Ireland
The building is conceived as two distinct blocks, connected by bridges across a full height atrium similar in scale to the adjacent town ‘close' providing arterial circulation and signalling the main entry points. The functions of the Centre are clearly expressed, the white building housing public exhibition and performance spaces and the grey building providing the administrative and private working areas.
The building's identity is defined by a limited palette of materials, and simple discreet detailing. A strong vertical zinc clad element anchors the building in its urban context creating a new landmark from the Main Street .
The new building is knitted into and continues the network of narrow closes and open squares which characterise the town, whilst providing a new focal point, off the main thoroughfare.
As part of an overall ambition to revitalise the centre of Skibbereen, the Centre becomes part of a town-wide strategy for improvement. A new pedestrian route is identified, a cultural journey leading from the Centre through reinvigorated plazas and across new bridges to an outdoor exhibition and event space formed in parkland on the outskirts of the town.
The design is to be exhibited at the Royal Institute of Architects headquarters in 2009.
Client: Competition Entry
