The successful Newcastle Theatre Royal restoration project was honoured with both 'Project of the Year' and 'Building Conservation' Award.
The award showcases outstanding work in the conservation of a single building or a group of buildings or structures and covers renovation or conservation to a new or original use.
Newcastle's Theatre Royal reopened its doors to the public on Monday 12September 2011 following an extensive £5m restoration project that had drawn on the theatrical expertise of UK theatre consultants, Charcoalblue.
Managing Director of the company Andy Hayles explains, "The scope of the restoration for this Grade I listed theatre was particularly ambitious, and included complete internal redecoration, new seating, new and refurbished pit lifts, new lighting positions and extensive rewiring. Charcoalblue was responsible for the design of all the technical systems and their integration within the historic fabric of the building, as well as advising on sightlines and seating layouts."
The RICS Conservation Award judges reviewed a number of criteria in choosing which project to honour, including how much of the original material remains in the building, and what methods have been adopted to re-use original material; the major conservation achievements; the important architectural features of the property and how have they been conserved; and how users and the local community received it.
"Having designed and managed the refurbishment of the theatre flytower in 2007, we were thrilled to return and restore the auditorium to its former glory," says Gavin Green, Charcoalblue's head of theatre design. "Working closely with the architect and historical consultant we removed years of dust and dirt, taking the theatre back to the genius of Matcham's original vision. We're thrilled that RICS has recognised the success of the project - and Charcoalblue's work - in presenting the venue with this award."
(Jim Evans)
