Testament to dedication and vision
Studio Gedye for the Heeley Development Trust
Contract value: £1.97 million
GIA: 1,300m2
Sustainability award
What was the abandoned shell of a much neglected listed building complex – the stone-built 1890s Anns Grove Board School by fine architect Charles J Innocent – is now a valuable community resource. This project is testament to dedication and vision. Dark, damp, and decaying previously, it has been transformed into bright, warm offices and communal spaces that celebrate every aspect of the historic character that remained and could be saved.
The understated conservation of the external envelope belies an ambitious upgrade of the fabric, which along with other low-energy measures delivers exemplary sustainability and low running costs – hence its winning the regional sustainability award. Sum Studios now provides space for arts organisations, creative businesses and the community. It is a great success.
The whole team should be commended for taking an asset that was historically at the heart of a community and returning it to that place for the benefit of future generations.
See other winners in the RIBA Regional Awards 2015 – Yorkshire