Restored Gwyn Hall community arts centre opens in Neath
The 125-year old, Grade II listed Gwyn Hall community arts centre in Neath, South Wales has re-opened after a £10 million ($16.23 million) renovation and extension work by Holder Mathias Architects.
The renovation includes the restoration of the historic shell of the building, which was partially destroyed by fire and the construction of new arts facilities.
The renovated building includes a multipurpose sprung floor; mirrored wall studio, which is equipped with an LCD projector screen; a three metre screen; and lectern, sound and lighting equipment for conferences. Featuring a 3D digital cinema, a café bar and conference facilities, the renovation has added new roof, interior and glass extensions into the remains of the existing building.
The renovated building also accommodates a 400-seat auditorium on the ground floor, as well as a 73-seat cinema pod on the upper floor under a new laminated timber roof structure. Retaining the original structure of the 1887-built Gwyn Hall building, like staircases and existing façade, the renovation has also added a planar-glazed extension, as well as new inside facilities.
