Following the completion of a sports centre in 2012, the new project at Stamford Endowed Schools has converted the old gym into a contemporary performing arts centre. This will act as a hub for creativity in the school – by housing both the music and drama departments at the heart of the Stamford school site – and will strengthen their facilities. The project will provide classrooms for the teaching of drama, music, music technology and a small studio for the recording of live performances.
Designed by GSSArchitecture, the scheme has also included the refurbishment of the main School Hall. Retractable seating has been installed to create an improved, flexible space for musical and theatrical performances, as well as for general school use.
William Assheton is the GSSArchitecture partner-in-charge, supported by architect Paul Harkin. William said: “The new performing arts centre provides greatly enhanced, high-quality facilities for performance, rehearsal and learning to the benefit of the students. It is fantastic to see the transformation of the tired, unattractive, 1960s former gym into something much more elegant, close to the historic centre of Stamford, opposite GSSArchitecture’s new swimming pool building”.
Principal of the Stamford Endowed Schools, Stephen Roberts, said: “The performing arts centre and refurbished music school and hall have added greatly to SES’ provision for the arts. I am sure we will bring even more top-quality productions and performances in the future.”
GSSArchitecture have designed a series of developments at Stamford, including a £6 million sports centre, a research and learning centre, a new main entrance atrium and the refurbished dining room, as well as the Ancaster Theatre at Stamford High School.
