Replacement of existing centre that had become tired. Our client wanted to provide a new improved Ballybeen Women’s Centre to be a focal community hub, a centre point, a destination for the local community, which would maximise the potential of the existing centre to facilitate further expansion of services.

Very dense urban residential development; Budget funding challenges; Working with a large committee and key stakeholders; Childcare accommodation

The design revolves around a triple height space with a large meeting table at the centre. This is the heart of the building. All childcare facilities are on the ground floor and accessed through a lower area of the triple height space. The childcare facilities accommodate pre-school, toddler and baby room areas and associated amenities. Also on the ground floor is the drop in area with café. The main entrance is defined by a large expansive covered area. The education zone is primarily accommodated on the 2nd floor including a computer suite, training rooms and meeting rooms. The design is an improved Women’s Centre, a destination for the local community which would maximise the potential of the existing centre to facilitate further expansion of services.