Phoenix Brighton set for major building project
Phoenix Arts Association Ltd
Phoenix Artists' Studios and Gallery in Brighton reveals plans for a £2.5 million redevelopment scheme over the next four years.
The building scheme, developed by local architects RH Partnership, comprises a redevelopment of the ground floor, including:
• improving the gallery space
• creating an artists' shop and cafe/bar
• enhanced education facilities
• a new commercial letting space for arts businesses
• opening up the entrance to the building and installing a new lift
• refurbishing existing windows and improving the facades at the front and back of the building.
Phonix Brighton, which is home to more than 100 visual artists and is the largest independent artists' studios and gallery in the South East, says the building is currently worn, cluttered and unwelcoming to the general public.
Development Manager David Litchfield says: “Our ambition is to create a landmark arts building, reflecting the spirit and vibrancy of Brighton at the gateway into the city.”
The redevelopment plans (see image, right) are designed to make the building accessible, sustainable and income generating. The project is key to ensure Phoenix’s long-term survival as a provider of affordable studios for artists and a regional centre for the arts and creative industries.
The cost of the redevelopment is estimated at £2.5 million plus VAT and professional fees. The work will be phased over 4 years to allow time for sufficient fundraising to take place and so as not to disrupt the working life of the building.
An exhibition of the plans will be available to view on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 March from 12 noon to 5pm at Phoenix Brighton.
For further details, contact David Litchfield on 01273 603700 or david@phoenixbrighton.org
www.phoenixbrighton.org
Location: South East, Brighton
Date posted: 4th March 2010
