The centre of Woking is characterised by a number of large, fortress-like modern buildings surrounded by a ring road. The site for the proposed “community cultural centre” was on the edge of this dense central area, where the canal and the woodland of Horsell Moor give an impression of countryside meeting town.
The design of the arts centre should take account of its location in part of this “green wall” zone. The site conditions provided an unusually clear diagram in relation to orientation, access and servicing. However, there was a paradox. The side of the building that had the task of announcing its presence to the town was also the side that would logically have a passive role with respect to the trees and canal – the building has to both attract and protect at the same time.
The building has two floors, with mid-sized spaces at ground level and large-span galleries above. Over the main entrance is a mini-tower that houses the centre’s administrative offices.
The linear building form consists of a podium on which the expressed shapes of the galleries and the tower stand. On the road side, this plinth takes the form of a curved wall made of reused masonry. This green curved wall, surmounted by the tower and pyramidal galleries would form a string composition from the road.
The galleries with their truncated roof-lit pyramid forms were designed to allow maximum flexibility. The intention was for the building to be inviting and welcoming, with a variety of spaces and moments of surprise.