Wilson Paul Award-Winning Chartered Architects In Dundee

Project  / Glenfarg Community Centre - new cafe, bar and visitor centre.

Client  / Glenfarg Community Group

Description

The Old Schoolhouse building, refurbished in December 2023, has been underutilized since its reopening. The community meeting rooms were too small and inflexible to accommodate larger groups, prompting the community group to reconsider their use. After local consultation, it was clear that the community would benefit from a café and bar to complement the adjacent village hall and provide a social space for residents and visitors.

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Design Proposals:

1. Extension to Main Entrance:

   • A new extension will form the primary entrance to the café/bar, facing east and linked to the adjacent pedestrian footway.

   • The extension features large glazing to connect the interior with the garden, capturing natural daylight from morning to afternoon.

   • Timber cladding and stone materials will blend the extension with the existing building.

2. External Terrace & Pathways:

   • The extension will include an external terrace for seating, offering respite and serving as an event space.

   • A resin-bound gravel pathway will connect to the high street, enhancing the area’s accessibility.

3. Interior Layout:

   • The café and bar area will be open-plan, with a semi-private core separating the café from the lounge and community hall.

   • A snug lounge space will provide a quiet area for coffee or dining and act as a reception for community hall events.

   • A new accessible WC will be added at the ground floor.

4. Kitchen & Storage Extension:

   • A small extension will be added to the kitchen area to house bar storage and a new kitchen capable of serving hot food, particularly during evening bar hours.

   • This extension will be subservient to the main building, maintaining a harmonious aesthetic with high-quality materials.

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Materials & Aesthetics:

The design utilizes local stone and natural timber to integrate the new extension into its context, maintaining a high-quality, refined aesthetic. The overall aim is to create a welcoming, flexible space for the community, enhancing the functionality of the Old Schoolhouse and supporting local social life.