The Fire Station is a new live music and performance venue in Sunderland, designed by London based Architects Flanagan & Lawrence. Howarth Litchfield were appointed by BRIIMS, the General Contractor, to assist with the Architectural technical delivery of the project as part of their Design & Build Team.
The new auditorium is designed to accommodate audiences of 500 people seated or 800 people standing to accommodate a variety of events ranging from: live music ranging from Classical to Rock, drama, dance, comedy productions, exhibitions, and craft fairs.
The foyer has been designed as an extension of the ground floor public space of the Edwardian Central Fire Station, now The Engine Room Bar & Bistro. With the original parade ground to the rear of the Fire Station being developed to include an outdoor stage and performance area.
The new Auditorium combines both new-build and the refurbishment of the Edwardian fire station, providing studio spaces for Live Theatre, Dance City, and the University of Sunderland.
The ground level box office / reception sits at the centre and serves both buildings of the project with the Engine Room providing all day refreshments and the Fire Station providing the entertainment.