Our Fusebox project in Blackburn is featured in the Architects’ Journal this month. Repurposing one of the UK’s earliest electricity generating power stations, the refurbishment provides young people with an events space, employment hub, maker and art studios, music and recording rooms, as well as social spaces. The design celebrates the industrial heritage of the existing building while using lighting, colour and materials to create an environment that young people are excited to engage in.

Previously divided into a warren of small rooms, the Fusebox has been opened-up to re-establish the large scale industrial spaces and allow young people to see all the activities on offer. The double-height events space looks into the busy maker workshop, while a new mezzanine provides an informal environment for young people to socialise and meet potential employers.

The project also includes interventions within the existing Blackburn Youth Zone building. New colourful canopies with an origami-like geometry highlight the main entrance and shelter cycle parking and seating. These accompany a skate-friendly organic landscape and green wall. Inside, stepped seating provides a social space to gather and integrates a ramp connecting to the heritage building, while new music and DJ-skills rooms add to the activities available to young people.

Read more here.