National Youth Theatre of Great Britain

Islington, Greater London

The remarkable transformation of the former Mission Hall, dating from 1872, into a 'Creative Production House' for young people demonstrates a thoughtful approach to creating spaces that foster creativity, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility. The project’s architectural design honours the building’s historical character while embracing modernity through a combination of raw materials and flexible spaces. A key feature is the addition of the Green Room pavilion, which not only provides a welcoming entrance but also integrates seamlessly with the original brick structure. The pavilion, clad in distinctive green glazed bricks, offers a dynamic public face to the NYT, improving its visibility on the busy Holloway Road and bringing the theatre’s backstage activities into view. This visually appealing addition has created an open, accessible space for a range of community-focused programs, such as "Playing Up" and "Start Up Saturdays," strengthening the institution’s partnership with local colleges. The design makes a significant reduction in the building’s carbon footprint through strategies like reusing 90% of the existing structure, including foundations and superstructure, and incorporating low-carbon materials like glulam timber and birch ply. The efficient use of space has resulted in a dramatic increase in capacity, with the new 250-seat theatre and flexible rehearsal spaces allowing the NYT to expand its reach. The new building layout offers step-free access to all areas, including new lifts, accessible toilets, and a Changing Places facility, ensuring that the NYT is welcoming to all. The design team’s collaborative approach, involving extensive consultations with young users and stakeholders, resulted in a space that encourages spontaneous collaboration and community engagement. This is further enhanced by the co-design process with students, ensuring that the space meets their needs for both creative production and social interaction. For the local community and beyond, the NYT’s redevelopment has transformed the institution into a vibrant cultural hub. By expanding its educational and performance capacity, the NYT can now offer more opportunities for young people to engage with theatre, both as participants and audience members. The newly reimagined space supports the NYT's mission to enrich lives through the arts, and its location on Holloway Road makes it easily accessible to local residents and visitors alike. The ongoing partnership with the West End, providing rehearsal space for professional productions, further extends the reach of the NYT, creating a truly symbiotic relationship between the theatre and the broader creative industries.

Judges’ Comments: 

“The National Youth Theatre’s revitalisation not only celebrates its historical roots but also prepares it for a sustainable future. It reflects the NYT's dedication to nurturing the next generation of theatre-makers, while fostering a sense of belonging and community for all who walk through its doors.”