Corinthian Curzon
Roman House
Colchester
This cold shell development for Corinthian Curzon within the centre of the Colchester Conservation Area will house the new Curzon Cinema and two class A3/A4 restaurant and bar units.
Formerly a department store, the existing building and had fallen into disrepair since its closure. The proposed re-use of this vacant building forms a strategic element as part of the wider regeneration and will add to the future vibrancy of this area in Colchester.
As part of the works, all internal walls were removed to create a fully open area and the second floor slab was partially cut back to form a double height volume capable of housing a 3 screen cinema.
External walls were opened up to form large window apertures animating the once closed off façade and large floor to ceiling corner windows now overlook the existing square.
The roof was fully replaced to extend the life of the building, and zinc cladding was applied to unify the building and create a new identity for the refurbished building. The zinc wraps around the building forming a canopy to Queen Street and rising to create a distinctive corner which will include signage to draw the public around the building. This cladding is continued on the east elevation forming a projecting bay to the first floor restaurant and providing a balcony to the second floor terrace. The cladding also extends to screen roof mounted plant and acts as a stop end to the adjoining site.
Access to each of the units is provided through a double frontage at ground floor with entry both from Queen Street, and also to the rear facing what will eventually become a new pedestrianised street as part of the wider development.
External seating areas are provided to all units, with the cinema also having a private terrace at second floor level with panoramic views.
Feature lighting is provided in the soffit of the canopy and, to highlight the Queen Street elevation, lighting will also be located on the brick piers between the faceted ‘bay’ windows.
The cinema fit out is due to complete in 2018.