The $84.6m Campbelltown Arts Centre expansion project won’t be just about a much bigger and better cultural hub.
As the concept designs of the project show, the main entrance will return to its original place, alongside Art Gallery Road.
The current entry was created at the last expansion of the arts centre.
This afternoon the concept designs for the biggest expansion in the history of the arts centre were revealed at a media event in the Japanese garden area – very near where the new entrance will be located when the work is completed.
Behind the designs are fjcstudio, an inner city architectural firm.
There’s no doubt this massive investment, $79m from the state government, and $5.6 from Campbelltown City Council, will take what is already a brilliant cultural institution to the next level.
The expansion will deliver a striking new theatre space, vibrant new gallery spaces, versatile function and conference facilities, additional workshop spaces, artist studios, and a larger café.
Visitors will be welcomed through a spacious forecourt and outdoor terraces that enhance the visitor experience and connect the arts centre with the Japanese gardens and the Campbelltown city centre.
The forecourt will provide opportunities for activations and events, and lead visitors into a central atrium with a café, foyer, retail and box office.
Campbelltown Mayor Darcy Lound said he liked the design of the expanded arts centre.
“Campbelltown Arts Centre is a cornerstone of our city’s story and a proud reflection of our community’s identity,” he said in a short speech.
“This thoughtfully designed expansion, inspired by our local culture and environment, reinforces the centre’s role as a cherished gathering place for our community and a vibrant destination for visitors to our region.
“Seeing the vision come to life through the concept designs marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Campbelltown Arts Centre.
“The expansion strengthens our capacity to deliver exceptional arts and cultural experiences, while ensuring they remain accessible to everyone in our community.
“I want to thank fjcstudio for their deep engagement, which has resulted in a design that honours Campbelltown’s cultural heritage and delivers a bold, future-focused vision of excellence,” Mayor Lound said.
The Campbelltown Arts Centre expansion project is set to commence construction in early 2027 with completion expected in early 2029.
Congratulations Jerry Knights on an outstanding career. You have made a significant difference in so many people’s lives. Enjoy the next phase of your life.