Repair and Expand EGO Performing Arts

The understanding of how the value of buildings is determined sheds light on the prevalent preference for demolition over repair in existing structures. In my project, however, I propose an alternative approach that embraces the existing urban fabric, advocating for the reuse of buildings, prioritizing maintenance and repair to foster a more environmentally friendly and culturally vibrant city.

The proposed demolition plans in Coventry reflect a large-scale erasure of the city's history, disregarding the fact that concrete buildings can endure for several hundred years despite their typical lifespan of 50 years. In 2016 alone, the UK generated a staggering 66.2 million tons of non-hazardous construction and demolition waste, accounting for 62% of the country's total waste. The lack of upkeep and neglect has trapped these buildings in a destructive lifecycle.

The EGO theatre proposal challenges the notion that demolition is the only solution for these underappreciated structures. Instead, it advocates for their repair, revitalization, and the enhancement of the existing urban environment. This approach not only extends the lifespan of the buildings, which initially emitted substantial amounts of CO2 during their construction, but also contributes to a more sustainable future. The client, EGO Performing Arts, is an established charity in Coventry dedicated to promoting accessibility to the arts and harnessing the creative potential of a diverse community. Their current residence in the EGO theatre fosters their mission, and the demolition plans jeopardize the progress they have made in bringing the community together. The charity serves various groups, particularly focusing on adults with disabilities, and expanding their facilities would benefit the community by providing care services and fostering community bonds while enhancing mental and physical well-being. In return, the community supports the charity by engaging with performances and providing funding for events.

To ensure the long-term viability and value of the building, my proposed alterations aim to improve energy efficiency, accessibility, and create pleasant and usable spaces. Key considerations include addressing vertical circulation to ensure universal accessibility, enhancing insulation for improved energy efficiency, and introducing natural light to lower floors to create a welcoming indoor environment. Additionally, the potential for a large theater space in the building's central area offers significant benefits. The new additions are designed to be dismantled at the end of their lifecycle, aligning with the principles of a circular economy that emphasize sustainable resource usage and waste minimization.