Studio 3 Arts

cc|be were appointed to deliver Mechanical, Electrical and Public Health services as part of the major refurbishment of Studio 3 Arts (S3A) in Barking.

The venue was originally adapted from a community hall but following the continued success of S3A and their community outreach, a significant reconfiguration and refurbishment of the existing building is underway. The project includes the renewal of Studio 1, a 100-150 seat black box theatre, the creation of a new 50 seat studio theatre, improved catering facilities and the provision of new, purpose-built gallery and a music recording studio.

As with all community led organisations, operating revenue for buildings is limited. The building is therefore designed to utilise the majority of structural walls and, where practicable, elements of existing MEP systems. New systems have been designed with low operating costs in mind, both in terms of energy/operating costs but also availability of replacement components - the existing boilers are not operational due to parts that cannot be sourced within the UK.

The main studio theatre has been designed to be naturally ventilated with a mechanical “boost” fan operating to provide increased ventilation rates during full occupancy events, particularly during summer months.

The studio theatre will be wholly naturally ventilated, as will the majority of accommodation provided.

A new recording studio is provided with full mechanical ventilation to achieve the acoustic separation requirements.

We have worked closely with the architects and structural engineer to produce a fully functional, low energy scheme that does not impose unnecessary burdens on either capital or long term running costs.