8th June 2022
A Modern Arts and Community Space at the Heart of Brixton
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Appointed through Southern Construction Framework (Generation 3, Lot 3 – London), Galliford Try has recently completed the construction of Brixton House – a modern, purpose-built arts and community destination in South London. Part of the Somerleyton Road Development Project in partnership with the London Borough of Lambeth, the new building houses two fully accessible theatres (120 and 200 seating capacity), seven flexible rehearsal rooms and a creative hub with large public café, while the neighbouring Victorian building, Carlton Mansions, has been refurbished to create two floors of creative workspace.
A Legacy
Brixton House is the new location for Ovalhouse, one of the most important centres for pioneer fringe theatre groups, previously located in Kennington.
Overcoming challenges
Surrounded by busy residential streets and a railway line, all while sitting atop London Underground tunnels, it’s no surprise this project required extensive collaboration, negotiation of intricate party-wall and land ownership issues and complex construction logistics. In addition, much of the project coincided with the Covid19 pandemic and the resulting lockdowns, requiring active management of resource and material difficulties.
“Actively collaborated and formed a one-team ethic with the client team. Open-book approach consistently and enthusiastically applied across all disciplines.”
Bruce McRobie, London Borough of Lambeth
A scaffold was needed to repair the existing Victorian façade at Carlton Mansions – the challenge was it needed to be erected just one metre away from the railway line. One of south London’s busiest passenger lines and a primary freight line, it is in constant use throughout the day and night. Following extensive engagement with Network Rail and our scaffold supply chain partner, Trad Scaffold, we had a daily 45-minute window to erect, and eventually dismantle, the scaffolding.
‘‘H&S procedures were well followed, and good behaviours were demonstrated by the site team and the operatives. The response to Covid was excellent.’’
Bruce McRobie, London Borough of Lambeth
Restoration
Painted on the side of Carlton Mansions, the Nuclear Dawn mural was given a new lease of life. Created in the 1980s when Britain was in the clutches of the Cold War, it has been fully restored by local artist, Morganico, and muralists Paul Butler and Linda Jane James. Brian Barnes MBE, one of the original creators of the mural, has been a regular visitor throughout.
