Picture palace reborn. AJ 11.2025

Architects' Journal Building Study

Architects' Journal, 2025
Picture palace reborn. AJ 11.2025 Download document

Document Status

Current

Supplement

Building Supplement

Series

Architects' Journal Building Study

Abstract

Bradford Live is a major cultural regeneration project that transformed a derelict 1930s Art Deco cinema into a 4,000-capacity live music venue at the heart of Bradford. Designed by Tim Ronalds Architects, the scheme preserves the building’s historic character while introducing modern interventions, including a dramatic exposed brick auditorium, new steel proscenium frames, and upgraded services. The project faced significant challenges, structural deterioration, asbestos, rising costs, and contractor changes, yet overcame them through collaboration between Bradford Live, the council, and key consultants. Includes architect’s view, sustainability, project data, engineer's view, client’s view and working detail. Architect: Tim Ronalds Architects.

Author

Wilson. R

Subjects

  • Building types
  • Entertainment/refreshment facilities

Publisher History

First produced in 1895, the Architects' Journal features comprehensive building studies, and in-depth technical articles.

Information

NBS

NBS has produced specification systems and information products for construction industry professionals for more than 40 years. The National Building Specification is the recognised UK national standard and is used by over 5,000 organisations. NBS is part of RIBA Enterprises Ltd.

Accuris

We connect trusted knowledge to customers' workflows – mitigating risk, increasing efficiency and accelerating innovation For more than 60 years, leading R&D and engineering-intensive organizations have relied on us to achieve on-time, on-budget delivery of complex projects and new products. We deliver an unparalleled combination of technical content and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies to surface answers from the vast universe of technical knowledge, both inside and outside the organization. In a single interface, we connect the dots between information scattered across many different sources, allowing technical professionals to make better, more informed decisions faster.