West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre, Edinburgh, For Pilton Central Association

ARCADE were asked to extend the recently-completed Neighbourhood Centre to provide spaces where social and community events could be held, and where the organisation could have its administrative base.

The design process involved close collaboration with the local residents’ committee to establish needs fully and ensure a successful outcome.

This resulted in a radical re-organisation of the existing building, including forming a new entrance and reception area, creating Meeting Rooms and the addition of a new Community Room with ancillary kitchen/servery/storage space.

Built to an extremely tight budget, the Community Room is constructed using simple timber trusses supported on a purpose made steel structure. Externally patterns built into the brickwork are a feature intended to give the building a clearer identity within the neighbourhood.

A second phase of the project has subsequently been completed, providing additional sports facilities.