Jacksons Lane Arts Centre

Founded in 1975 inside a former Wesleyan Methodist church, Grade II-listed Jacksons Lane Arts Centre has played a key role in the development of London’s fringe and community theatre. The latest project upgrades technical and visitor facilities within the complex, which features a 166-capacity theatre, large-scale studio and café-bar, all of which were in need of repair.

Skelly & Couch provided full environmental engineering design for an overhaul of the mechanical and electrical infrastructure, involving:

•Conservation works to the brick façade and existing windows

•Improved thermal envelope by adding insulation and replacing windows

•Reconfiguration of studio spaces and a new foyer layout for easier accessibility

•Improved energy performance by introducing new H&V controls

•Introduction of renewable energy (PV panels)

•A new heating control system dividing the arts centre in different heating zones

•New, dimmable LED lighting to all studios improving their functionality

•A natural ventilation strategy for most studios and the new foyer and mechanical ventilation where necessary

•Increased power supply to allow the arts centre to expand and host more sophisticated performances.

The Jacksons Lane project was funded by Haringey Council and Arts Council England.

An AJ Architecture Awards 2022 finalist in the Community & Faith Project category.

*Winner in the 2023 Civic Trust Awards and a Selwyn Goldsmith Award for Universal Design finalist.* Nominated for a 2023 AJ Retrofit Award in the Cultural and Religious building up to £5m category.