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Demolition Derby

Part 2 Project 2021
Makhan Johal
Nottingham Trent University | UK
A building that will last a lifetime would be an aspiration for any designer, as it leaves a legacy for future generations to experience and enjoy. This project responds to the controversial Brutalist Assembly Rooms building in Derby, presenting a scenario of loved vs loathed, with the aim of bringing new ‘life’ to this 44-year-old civic centre.

The Assembly Rooms, by Casson Condor, was hit by a fire in 2014 that left the building severely damaged and Derby without a performance venue. The City Council decided to demolish it rather than refurbishing it, hence having an environmental negative impact on the city. The design proposal counters this decision with an alternative project ensuring the building is celebrated, while reconnecting it with the community and becoming an urban regenerator.

A key concept was to create a clear entrance for the centre, encouraging thoroughfare and mixing a wide range of people. Careful consideration of material choices allowed for the retrofit approach to respect the existing forms, yet still provide a welcoming distinction between old and new in the site. Creating community spaces enabled the civic building to become highly active, restoring public pride for the existing structure while celebrating the city’s history.

Makhan Johal

Tutor(s)
Kenneth Fraser
2021
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