Touchstones

Rochdale

Services

Architecture
Interiors
Conservation (Grade II Listed)

Team

Client: Your Trust
Contractor: HH Smith
Project Management: HIVE Projects
Conservation Stage 3: BB Heritage
Conservation Architect – Stage 5 Envelope: Donald Insall Associates
Cost: Identity Consult
Structures: Sutcliffe
Services: Steven A Hunt Associates
Acoustics: Hann Tucker Associates
Landscape: Gillespies

Area

Phase 01: 1830 sqm
Phase 02: 600 sqm
Roof: 535 sqm

Cost

Phase 01: £5,300,000
Phase 02: £2,500,000
Roof: £1,700,000

Project Overview

AE were first enlisted to provide a cultural strategy for Rochdale. This involved reviewing building stock, uses and suggesting architectural solutions for a variety of different buildings across the Rochdale Townships. Funding was secured to re-imagine Touchstones and AE won the competitively tendered commission. Detailed proposals were then developed and the project is under construction.

The scheme comprises a new Community Dining Room where Rochdale’s collection of artefacts are to be displayed within the cafe area, creating an engaging learning space within the most public element of the building. The exhibition design has been carried out by AE. A new flexible performance space is created alongside with bleacher seating. New learning and education spaces are being created together with visible artist studios, common artistic facilities and meeting spaces. The basement is being converted with open plan and cellular office space, together with artist storage and workshops.

Works in the first phase were delayed by the poor roof condition, discovered during the process. The roof had to be overhauled during the contract. Phase two involves the refurbishment of the galleries on the first floor, which weren’t part of the original commission but will enhance the offer significantly.

The building is extremely important both within the cultural and heritage environment. It sits very close to the impressive Town Hall further down the Esplanade and due to its significant aesthetic and communal historic value it attracts interest both locally and nationally.

Interiors have been inspired by historic photographs with some of the previously lost details reinterpreted. Works are due to complete in 2027 and will undoubtedly become one of Rochdale’s most important and well used cultural and creative assets.