The YMCA was founded in 1844 and for many years YMCA Norfolk has been serving the needs of young people in the county. The organisation operates a number of centres including one at All Saints Green, Norwich. This was opened in 2009, with acoustic design by Adrian James Acoustics. Despite being sandwiched between a bus station and a very busy road, this newbuild was remarkable in achieving BREEAM credits for noise control in the 38 bedrooms and communal areas.

The latest addition to YMCA Norfolk’s facilities is the Community Hub at Aylsham Road. Previously known as Jubilee Hall, the building was a meeting place for the Royal British Legion. It closed down in 2014 and was purchased by YMCA Norfolk.

Due to the condition of Jubilee Hall, a major redesign was essential. LSI Architects were commissioned to transform a tired set of rooms into an airy and attractive 21st-century community centre. The main areas included a new nursery and soft play area, a cafe and and offices. With oversight from contractors Daniel Connal Partnership, we were appointed to ensure the building was acoustically fit for purpose.

Old construction types meant that wall and ceiling acoustic treatments needed very careful consideration. There were also some design modifications made to the main space as the project progressed. We liaised closely with the architect and client to reach a suitable level of acoustic treatment.

The nursery – known as Muddy Puddles – has recently opened along with William’s Kitchen, a spacious cafe named after the YMCA’s founder, George Williams. The Explorers soft play area and the offices are expected to be fully operational once Covid restrictions ease.

On opening the centre, Chief Executive Officer Tim Sweeting commented, “Our new building is one of which we are extremely proud and are beyond excited to open its doors to the public, to share YMCA’s community-enhancing mission with members of the Norwich and Norfolk community.”

Client : YMCA Norfolk
Architect : LSI Architects
Contractor: Daniel Connal Partnership
Project value: £2.1 million
Photo credits: Mat Tuora / AJA / Sam Cane