The Shakespeare Centre, Kendal
Conversion of former theatre to church centre

Built as a theatre in 1829 this building had subsequently been used as a dance hall, stables, auction room and warehousing. New Life Community Church purchased the building shell and restored and converted it for worship, meeting rooms and offices.

The Shakespeare Centre occupies a significant but landlocked site iin the town centre, located at the top of a 'yard'. The front east facade is the only public elevation visible from the main street. The new flight of sandstone steps and iron railings werre built to rise gracefully to the front door and restore the robust elegance to the elevation.
The restoration of such a property is important in preserving the intricate fabric and diversity of uses in the town centre.

The work included stabilising the front wall, reslating the roof, new Yorkstone entrance steps and railings, repointing the stonework in lime mortar, and replacing the double hung sash windows to match the originals.
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Civic Trust Special Mention