Our New Centre (2002)

An area of land (known as the Field of Dreams) has become available within The Park and plots are to be sold to individuals and organisations within the Community. Findhorn Centre for the Arts hopes to build on the part of this site designated for a community building in the south corner.

We plan to build a small cluster of buildings with three art studios surrounding a gallery space amongst gardens and pathways. An office, sanctuary space and toilet will complete the complex.

In the studios we aim to create highly practical and effective work spaces for everyone from an individual to groups of 30 or more. The second aim is to create a new way in which to view and enjoy art; a new context in which the gallery space, being more like a sitting room or chapel rather than an anonymous white room, can be used to bring real satisfaction and learning.

Gallery Space
40 square metres
a quiet, contemplative and relaxed space
low ceilings, low windows
steps down to reach it
a soft acoustic with medium dark material walls
two or three small windows with controlled foreground views
a small window through to one of the studios
hand made window frames by a local craftsman
wooden floor
inviting, clear entrance
focused interior space without feeling of thoroughfare
a cluster of seats in middle facing out
adjustable track lighting

 

Three Studio Spaces
110, 56 and 16 square metres
uncluttered, practical working spaces
abundant overhead diffuse light
one or two other windows all with blinds
adjustable track lighting
medium high ceilings
tough cleanable flooring
cupboards for material storage
vertical rack for storing paintings
sink and cleaning area
tough white walls
each studio as separately articulated place
double-door entrances clearly signified from outside

 

Office/Reception/Circulation Space
approx. 20 square meters
multi-use space from which exhibition and studio spaces are reached
south facing with French windows leading to deck and (sculpture)garden
main entrance to outside, wide and inviting
hard wearing wooden flooring
fitted lockable storage for office equipment
a place to meet interested people wandering in
adjacent to exhibition space
a place that can be cleared to provide reception for exhibition openings
overhead lighting for office area

 

Sanctuary
9 square metres
enclosed, perched at top of building
large low window to view across bay
neutral matted flooring
soft accoustic

Toilet
4 square meters
off reception space,tucked away in corner of building behind stairs
two doors and corridor with bend
stained glass window by local artist
well lit and sound insulated
ceramic sink hand made by local craftsman
low flush toilet

 

Overall Intentions

to involve local artists and crafts people in the fabric of the building itself
to use and re-use the most local materials possible
to balance passive solar gain with specific lighting requirements
to be able to build and extend in phases
to build the most ecologically successful building in the Foundation so far
and, of course, the most beautiful.