The Plumstead Centre

The Plumstead Centre project, commissioned by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, saw the 1903-built Grade II-listed Plumstead Library, one of the original Carnegie-funded public libraries, transformed into a new social destination for the local community, with accessibility for all.

MZA was appointed as part of the RIBA Stage 4 design team to deliver the MEP and Acoustic designs, including BIM Level 2 and Revit. Our MEP design integrated modern services into an existing building with listed elements, which required a high level of detailing during the design stage. The design also included the use of thermodynamic modelling for the building’s energy assessment and Building Regulations compliance, and we carried out dynamic simulation to establish true building cooling loads. Our acoustics team provided design advice on the internal acoustics of the performance spaces, control of plant noise emissions and monitored noise and vibration levels through the construction due to proximity to neighbours and sensitive infrastructure in the vicinity of the site.

The redevelopment has preserved and enhanced the historic character of the old library building, sensitively refurbishing the interior to bring it in line with modern standards, with upgraded amenities throughout. The contemporary extension to the rear was constructed in the same materials as the library, with brick, glass and metal used to create a modern building that is sympathetic to, but stylistically distinct from, its neighbour.

The new complex has combined improved library rooms, new leisure facilities, refurbished flexible spaces, a new café and cultural facilities under one roof. New amenities include separate children’s and adults’ libraries, flexible collaboration space, a gym and badminton court, and two large studios for performing arts, yoga, or exhibitions.

The project was completed in February 2020 and the building has achieved BREEAM 2014 Very Good and an EPC rating B.

The Plumstead Centre was named AJ100 Building of the Year 2021, was a Civic Trust Awards 2021 Regional Finalist and was Highly Commended in the New London Awards 2020 in the Experience Culture Category.

Photography: Jack Hobhouse (www.jackhobhouse.com).