More a resurrection than a redevelopment, our design for the Observer Building in Hastings, UK, brought a derelict 1920s building back to life and made it the contemporary heart of Hastings’ creative White Rock community.
Once a bustling hub of breaking news, the landmark building sat disused for 30 years – with only pigeons and graffiti artists inside its walls. Our concept revived the buzz by waking up the building and putting it to immediate use as a community space – mixing pop-up installations and exhibitions, table tennis, family activities, creative workshops and a bar.
These temporary works were the first step of a phased development that would see the heritage building converted into a mix of loft apartments, restaurants and artists’ studios.
The proposed design would ensure the legacy of the original Observer Building, with a contemporary twist – and drop-dead views. Importantly, it would be a beacon to attract talent, ambition and investment to Hastings.
