Located centrally in Bournemouth, this project explores strategic options to enhance and expand the YMCA Westover Road specialist housing facility. The site is currently constrained by its historic evolution and the proximity of neighbouring properties, including a nearby conservation area. To maximize the site's potential for the YMCA while respecting local Art Deco architectural typologies, several avenues for development have been comprehensively outlined.
The first option focuses on refurbishment, proposing a replanning of the Westover Road tower building. By removing internal walls, re-cladding the facade, and updating mechanical and electrical strategies, the accommodation quality can be dramatically improved with minimal structural intervention and immediate upgrades.
An extension strategy proposes adding two floors to the existing front and rear buildings. While this maximizes spatial capacity and offers potential commercial units to help fund the sheltered accommodation, it requires rigorous structural investigations to assess the latent capacity of the original concrete frames.
A redevelopment option explores demolition and a new modular build over the existing basement, weighed against the complexities of protecting extensive party walls. Finally, an acquisition strategy considers integrating an adjacent plot for a new, detached build, offering superior daylighting and a cost-effective solution for the YMCA.
