Nestled in the heart of Peckham, Peckham Audio stands as South-East London's latest addition to the live music scene, offering a unique and engaging experience within the constraints of a compact basement space. The client's directive was clear—to transform the existing subterranean area along Rye Lane into a distinctive nightclub and live music venue that defied conventional expectations and maximised spatial potential, all within a stringent budget.

Confronted with a challenging site characterised by low ceilings, our design intervention focused on creating an illusion of expansiveness while ensuring functionality for dynamic performances. The retrofit project called for the conversion of the basement into an immersive space, featuring a raised horseshoe-shaped platform surrounding a sunken pit destined to serve as the dance floor.

The existing concrete-block envelopment posed a design challenge, compelling a strategic response to infuse the space with light and create an alluring atmosphere. Our solution involved the implementation of light-filled walls, meticulously crafted with LED strips and perforated mild steel sheeting. This innovative approach not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal but also facilitated a captivating interplay of light on the rough concrete surfaces, generating an ethereal ambiance.

The success of the project hinged on the implementation of a prefabrication strategy, where all panels were meticulously crafted offsite in modular sections. This not only expedited the construction process, significantly reducing build time and costs but also allowed for on-site assembly with minimal modifications. The result was a visually engaging, efficient, and cost-effective nightclub and gig venue that opened its doors much sooner than anticipated, establishing Peckham Audio as a vibrant addition to the leisure sector in Peckham, Southwark.