Lathams was commissioned to undertake a major refurbishment of the Rhodes Centre in Bishop's Stortford, with a particular emphasis on creating improved museum facilities and a performance space and meeting centre for the local community.
Prior to the commission, the Centre comprised the house in which Cecil Rhodes was born, on to which a large extension had been constructed, known as 'The Commonwealth Centre'. The existing museum layout had been installed during the mid-1970s, and as well as removing or altering beyond recognition the majority of original fabric, it had also failed to provide a clear, safe through-route.
Lathams, working closely with museum fit-out specialist Haley Sharpe, developed proposals to open up the spaces within the museum while retaining original features and evidence of the original villa layout.
The Grade lI listed building was repaired and refurbished, and now houses exhibitions covering the life of Cecil Rhodes along with other displays, including the 'Town Mural', a 28 foot long by 5 foot high work of art depicting the history of Bishop's Stortford from the beginning of time up until 1990.
The former Commonwealth Centre was re-ordered and extended to provide a theatre with large foyer, cafe and bar, along with a dance studio and conference/meeting rooms. This comprehensive re-use solution has created an exciting venue serving Bishop's Stortford and region.
