Working with Forward South, Belfast City Council, Building Control, the landlord, contractors and fire-safety advisers, we identified the minimum interventions needed to open the ground floor and bring the building back into use. The first phase created a flexible community hub within the former bank, with an accessible WC, private meeting rooms, a social supermarket and shared community space.

Careful attention was given to fire safety, circulation, services and the existing bank-vault doors, allowing the building to open quickly and without unnecessary expenditure. The approach separated the essential works from longer-term aspirations, so early decisions supported the building’s future development.

A second stage explored the long-term potential of the building as a permanent community asset. We developed a feasibility study testing how the whole building could be adapted over time, including improved access, fire strategy, circulation, fabric-first upgrades, replacement windows, new services and a rear addition to introduce a lift, accessible facilities and plant.

The spatial strategy considered a public ground floor, community learning and support spaces, co-working, partner co-location and flexible upper-floor accommodation. It also tested opportunities for income generation through desk space, room hire and co-location, strengthening the building’s long-term operational future.