Maggie's Centre, Cheltenham
Maggie's Centre, Cheltenham
Overview
Located within the grounds of Cheltenham General Hospital, Maggie’s Centre provides vital support for people and their families affected by cancer. As demand for its services has increased, a new contemporary single-storey extension was proposed to create additional group space, storage and toilet facilities.
Vobster Architectural collaborated with architects Metropolitan Workshop, main contractor Beard Construction and specialist installer Rowland Stone to deliver the bespoke wet cast stone for the scheme. The design vision - influenced by the late Sir Richard McCormac’s early sketches - was to create a light-filled, functional and contemporary extension that respects the character of the centre’s existing Grade II listed buildings, which date back to 1871.
Concept to Completion
Natural stone was originally specified for the scheme due to planning restraints and the nature of working with listed buildings, however this created challenges in terms of cost. It was at this point that Vobster Architectural were brought in to work with the architect to find a solution. After much collaboration with the council, it was eventually agreed that cast stone could be utilised as a cost-effective, but equally attractive alternative material for the extension. The Vobster Architectural team created a number of samples which were approved by the local planning committee, prior to delivering the bespoke, curved fluted panels that now surround the elegant new building.
The existing listed buildings that make up Maggie’s Centre feature a facade comprised of yellow brick with red brick banding. While the new contemporary extension had to be fit for modern use, it was imperative that it remain in keeping with the historic nature of the building. In place of natural stone, cast stone was the perfect choice to achieve this due its timeless and elegant nature that lends itself well to both contemporary and traditional buildings.
Due to site constraints and a requirement for step free access, the new facility is located on the trellised garden at the east of the original listed building – the only viable setting for the facility. Connected to the original structure by a minimal glazed link, the extension will provide a contemporary and welcoming space for Maggie’s Centre visitors for years to come.
To learn more about wet cast stone, click here.
