In the heart of Cardiff Bay stands the iconic Wales Millennium Centre, proudly serving as the National Arts Centre for Wales. Following an extensive internal refurbishment, this architectural marvel recently won the 2023 Cardiff Property Award for Transformation.
The Transformation Project
Spring of 2023 witnessed the grand unveiling of the Wales Millennium Centre’s internal renovation—the largest since its grand opening in 2004. The project set out to breathe new life into this cultural hub, ensuring it evolved with the times and continues to captivate audiences for years to come.
Scope of work
The project involved a comprehensive internal refurbishment and fit-out, including:
Welcome Hub: The main foyer, previously a huge room with one long ticket desk, now reimagined as a versatile Welcome hub. The multi-use space now boasts a stylish bar, ticket desk, and a flexible lounge area designed for exhibitions, flexible working, or simply a place to meet and unwind.
Cabaret: Conversion of a previous restaurant into a lavish 140-seat cabaret. This dedicated space is set to host an array of performances, ranging from drag and comedy to burlesque, live music, and spoken word.
Members lounge: The member’s lounge, catering to the Centre’s most devoted supporters, also received a well-deserved makeover. This exclusive space now offers an updated and sophisticated environment just minutes away from their seats, enhancing the overall experience for loyal supporters.
Our Role
Serving as Quantity Surveyor on this incredible transformation, MEA meticulously managed cost planning, reporting, and final account. Our job was to ensure that the project stayed on track financially, contributing to the seamless realisation of the Wales Millennium Centre’s vision.
Further recognition
Since the completion of the construction works, Wales Millennium centre has also been nominated for ‘Fit-out of the Year’ at the Insider Media Property Awards 2023
Conclusion
We are thrilled to see Wales Millennium Centre receiving the recognition it deserves. It stands as a testament to the power of cultural institutions to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of the arts.
Project Team
Client: Wales Millenium Centre
Architect: Viewport Studio
Contractor: Powell.
Images courtesy of Viewport Studio
