Student Design Competition: Interior Design Winner

Description: 
A base for young people to call ‘home’, within a nurturing and supportive environment, where they can gain confidence and independence. The Gas House will provide support for 16-20 year olds who are in, or have been in the social care system and need guidance to become successfully independent.

Where users have felt that they have no place to belong this ‘house’ must fulfil that need. Whatever age they are, the young people know that they have a ‘home’ to go to. The house will engage members of the local community who can bring their own skills to aid the young people through education, work, living and support. Creating an open, welcoming, homely environment that will give all users a sense of belonging.

The building is situated in the Canon’s Marsh/Harbourside area of Bristol, across the river from SS Great Britain. It was built in the mid-1800’s to produce gas for Bristol. The building has a strong presence, designed in the Bristol Byzantine style using pennant stone and rock clad dressings. It has been protected through its Grade II listing. The area surrounding the building is thriving with small independent businesses located around the harbour inlet that offer opportunities for the users of my concept.