Key Facts

Location Chester
Architect Rider Levett Bucknall
Area 72,000 sq. ft.

The Project

To develop a new theatre in Chester for both touring and producing work. By engaging with the Arts Council they were able to leverage private funding, alongside the Council funding and other grant-funding contributors, to achieve the vision.

The works included the refurbishment and extension of a striking 1930s Art Deco Odeon building to incorporate an 800-seat theatre, combined with studio and rehearsal rooms with approximately 150 removable seats. The cultural hub also boasts an integrated central library, a cinema with 120 seats, as well as bars and dining areas. In the back-of-house there are dressing rooms, a green room, offices and meeting rooms for staff.

We provided strategic project advice to the council for the building. Chester Storyhouse subsequently won multiple awards including Best Refurbishment at the Building Awards and Best Theatre Building at The Stage Awards.

Credit to Bennetts Associates