Hastings Central Library

Hastings Central Library is a prominent, Grade II listed, Italianate gothic revival style building constructed in 1878 and donated to the town by Lord Brassey. Over the years the building has been subject to numerous internal alterations most of which have not been sympathetic to the character of the original building.

We were appointed by East Sussex County Council at concept stage to work with them to rejuvenate the building by removing the unsympathetic interventions and uncovering and refurbishing some of the features and spaces, restoring the character of the original building.

Working with heritage specialists and the local Conservation Officer, key features were retained and protected including external stone and façade works. The first floor ornate moulded ceilings were reinstated to match the original design and historic bannisters fully protected. In a similar vein, new installations such as luminaire fittings were selected sympathetic to the aesthetic design of the building and lime-based materials employed to match the original lime plaster. 

The works involved replacing all of the outdated services with new energy efficient lighting, heating, and IT systems. At the same time, the opportunity was taken to open up parts of the building that had previously been closed to the public, creating an accessible, comfortable and attractive facility to serve the town.

The project won a Sussex Heritage Award in 2018.