Civic Centre Opportunities Site (CCOS South) 

Elevating Community Spaces: Award-Winning Vibrant Multi-Use Development with Green Innovation.

We transformed the Civic Centre Opportunities Site (CCOS South) into a vibrant, multi-purpose development in the heart of St Albans.As the Lead Architect, SPACE&PLACE (S&P) successfully guided the project, creating two main blocks that include 6,000 m² of high-quality commercial office space and 93 residential apartments. 

The winning design emerged from a public competition, engaging businesses, residents, and organisations. We developed a landmark commercial building with a striking curved, glazed façade, distinctively separated from the adjacent residential block by green walls. We created active frontages to enliven the street scene and designed overlooking apartments to foster a strong community feel.

The design emphasises pedestrian connections to St Albans’ green car-free routes. A community café, a landmark pavilion, and an active public space contribute to a dynamic landscape. A single-storey pavilion on the southwest corner enhances the space, while a redesign of the building’s external treatment respects height restrictions and layout. 

The project integrates a family-friendly environment with memorable buildings of high-quality materials, enhancing St Albans’ architectural heritage. Green pedestrian routes are celebrated with plantings and public spaces. Features include a new green space on Bricket Road, opportunities for pop-up events, and choreographed water jets. 

The new site enhances Victoria Street’s green edge and incorporates the Quaker Gardens thoughtfully. Samuel Ryder Promenade, lined with garden planting and blossom trees, connects the Civic Centre and Alban Arena. Accessible paths and lifts ensure ease for all users. 

The pavilion sits beside the Quaker Gardens, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. The curved façade of the commercial building at Victoria Street and Bricket Road invites pedestrian movement. Sustainable features, such as green walls and climbing plants, promote environmental benefits. 

Results

The design uses existing foundations to reduce costs and incorporates sustainable practices. Low-maintenance planting supports biodiversity, and sustainable drainage solutions are implemented. The walkable environment encourages activity, supporting mental health and wellbeing. 

March 2020