The Ludic Shed

The adaptive reuse project located in Crewe transforms a metal shed, a light-weight, temporary and industrial structure, into a vibrant cultural hub by integrating a museum and a flexible theatre space.

Housing an itinerant programme of performance and presentation, the renewal of the space is brought through the creative expression of its users. The proposal aims to remind Crewe citizens that industry is rooted in creativity and offers them an accessible venue for both local artists and audiences, fostering opportunities for sharing music, art and storytelling.

While the exhibition wing showcases artefacts and objects, the theatre brings residents’ stories to life, fostering communal storytelling. Inspired by barn and black box theatres, the retrofitted shed space is driven by adaptability and shared experience. The museum foyer transforms into a performance venue at night, with exposed rigging columns reminiscent of railway gantries that support lighting and spatial transformations, underscoring the project's dual commitment to heritage and community engagement.