Memorial Hall

Location: Marlborough

Client: Marlborough College

Architect: Diamond Schmidt / ACG Architects

Value: £4.5M

Memorial Hall is a Grade II listed building at Marlborough College, opened in 1925 to commemorate those lost during World War I.

Designed as a classical amphitheatre, it has long served both as a memorial and performance space. Over time, the building deteriorated, requiring comprehensive refurbishment to restore its function and enhance its performance capabilities.

The project involved complex interventions within an early reinforced concrete structure of significant historic value. Key challenges included poor acoustics due to the semi-circular form, inadequate sightlines, and outdated facilities. Structurally, widening the proscenium, and accommodating new acoustic treatment and the installation of new building services required careful strengthening without compromising the integrity of the original fabric.

SFK Consulting developed a sensitive structural strategy to enable alterations while preserving the historic concrete frame.

This included detailed assessment and strengthening of primary beams, enabling a widened proscenium and installation of acoustic reflectors. Structural solutions were carefully integrated to support new loads while minimising impact on the existing building and maintaining its architectural character, which included the use of carbon fibre strengthening.

The project successfully transformed the hall into a high-quality performance venue while preserving its historic significance.

Structural upgrades enabled improved acoustics, sightlines and functionality, supporting modern use. Memorial Hall now operates as a versatile theatre and assembly space, demonstrating how heritage structures can be adapted to meet contemporary performance and educational needs.

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