The Creation Works, Par
A Project By: Koha Architects
The Creation Works is a highly sustainable and fully accessible rehearsal studio in Par, Cornwall, a project that shows how cultural spaces can contribute to the built environment through thoughtful design and community purpose.
Koha Architects were appointed in 2019 to help Prodigal UPG founders Miranda Henderson and Alister O’Loughlin develop “a sustainable, accessible, residential rehearsal studio that could meet the needs of theatre, dance and outdoor performance makers.” Their vision was rooted in Cornish heritage and community benefit, shaping a project that is both environmentally responsible and culturally local, with a clear connection to the built environment that surrounds it.
By leading RIBA Stages 1 to 3 Koha transformed the clients’ ambition into the core architectural concept, establishing the environmental, technical and spatial foundations of the project. This early work set the building’s low carbon direction, integrating high performance insulation, an air source heat pump, PV array and a carefully selected material palette. The site situated in Flood Zone 2 required a bespoke flood resilience and drainage strategy to secure planning consent, and Koha guided the project through this complex process with detailed environmental analysis and stakeholder coordination that reflects how such decisions shape the built environment.
Locality shaped the project, with more than 95 percent of the £1.2 million construction value retained within Cornwall and the building set within a newly built Cornish hedge and native planting that reinforces its connection to place.
The completed building is recognised as the most accessible and best equipped rehearsal space in Cornwall. It includes a semi sprung Junckers floor, aerial riggable steels, LED lighting, generous natural light and fully accessible accommodation with a profiling bed, mobile hoist and audio described wet room.
The Creation Works strengthens Cornwall’s cultural infrastructure, supports local talent and attracts national and international companies to Par. Its environmental performance, Cornish identity and community impact led to its recognition as Cornish Buildings Group Award Best New Build 2026, demonstrating how cultural projects can enrich the built environment in lasting and meaningful ways.
