A Sensitive Reawakening Of A Community Icon

The Drill Hall, Horsham By: Mohsin Cooper In the centre of Horsham, a 1920s military hall is being given new life. The Drill Hall—once built for the Ministry of Defence and later adopted as a much-loved civic venue is now the focus of a major refurbishment led by our studio in collaboration with a local church and community organisation. The vision: to reinvigorate a historic landmark for modern use, preserving its spirit while creating a welcoming, inclusive hub for worship, arts, and performance. The design approach is one of restraint and respect. Original proportions and materials are retained wherever possible, with new insertions expressed in a contemporary yet sympathetic language. Within the main hall, carefully integrated acoustic panels and coordinated services provide the flexibility and sound quality required for high-calibre performances and community events. Natural ventilation and daylight are introduced through new rooflights, adding both environmental efficiency and an uplifting sense of openness. Supporting accommodation is being completely re-imagined. Flexible meeting rooms, new offices, and a green-room suite sit alongside a reheat kitchen and dedicated media facilities. A new accessible entrance from Dukes Square Twitten will open the building to the public realm, providing step-free entry and a more visible, … Continue reading A Sensitive Reawakening Of A Community Icon