Big House for the Arts, Norwich

• Learning
• City College Norwich
• £5.7m
• 2015

This building has a multi functional programme for art and drama based activity. Its strong and pure architectural frame means that it can absorb its transient and messy activities well. A black timber clad pavilion set on the edge of a tree lined south facing garden forms a green veil backdrop. The north facing wall is quite open in order to soak up glare free north light into the gallery spaces. This side of the building is also distinctive as it pushes outwards to form an exciting frontage.

The Creative Sector is booming at over six times the rate of the whole economy, recent government figures have shown. We now have a house and a home for all of the Creative Arts which has enabled us to bring together visitors and students alike from many disciplines; and for them work collaboratively within a professional space. The bold design demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that talented regional creatives have the best possible opportunity to develop their skills and become a part of that boom.
Ray Goodman, Programme Manager
Creative and Business Industries, City College Norwich

Big House for the Arts completed by Director Wayne Head whilst in practice at BDP.