This project involved the refurbishment and extension of the Parkside Youth and Community Centre. Part of Hackney’s Myplace project, Parkside is one of several buildings which provide Youth Services on a “hub and spoke” model across Hackney.

The project primarily benefits Hackney’s young people aged between 11-19 (up to 25 with disabilities or a special educational need), particularly those of greatest risk of experiencing/engaging in anti-social and criminal behaviour and of remaining unemployed or entering low paid employment as they progress into adulthood.

The gross internal floor area was increased from 455m2 to 627m2 by the removal of an extension on the west side and the addition of first floor accommodation.

The new elevation has a much improved street presence. The first floor extension is cantilevered over the restored original entrance providing shelter for those entering and leaving the building. Lighting has been incorporated into the new soffit. New windows have been created in the ground floor wall to allow the management office to supervise outside space and for the interior life of the building to be visible from the street. Similarly, end walls of the new extension are glazed, so that the upper floor is visible as an attractive, high quality facility.

There is a large flexible space at ground floor level with a dance studio area, music studio and recording space above to enable users to develop production and recording skills. External works included the formation of a multi-functional outside space which provides areas to grow vegetables, garden and play outdoor games.