The Arts Theatre, Cambridge

The project involved remodelling and refurbishment of the Grade II listed Cambridge Arts Theatre’s Auditorium and back of house which included:

• Construction of a reimagined auditorium complete with a new curved balcony front and upgraded seating to improve audience capacity, circulation, and accessibility
• Technical and backstage enhancements with modernised stage systems, lighting, and upgraded dressing rooms with improved finishes for performers
• An updated public street front entrance off Peas Hill with an improved box office and new façade.

Architecturally, the intervention is defined by a softening of the auditorium’s geometry. Rounded corners and a new curving balcony front replace the previous angular forms, while the interior is lined in carefully crafted maple timber panelling. Doing so recalls the original 1930s birds-eye maple finish, while its geometry has been refined to support acoustic clarity.

Beyond the auditorium, the project extends to a comprehensive reworking of front and back of house areas. A reinstated entrance on Peas Hill strengthens the building’s presence within the city, while front of house restrooms have been reconfigured to improve capacity and comfort. Backstage, basement corridors have been rationalised and dressing rooms refurbished with new finishes and lighting. Materials including oak, plywood and marmoleum introduce a domestic character, creating a calm and functional environment for performers and crew.

In terms of improving the building’s performance, the introduction of an air-source heat pump and the reuse of parts of the existing ductwork reduce operational and embodied carbon, while responsibly sourced timber has been used throughout. Redundant seating has been carefully removed and repurposed elsewhere, extending the lifecycle of existing components.

Cocksedge worked closely with the design team and an array of specialist contractors which included ABS Building Services who completed the M&E installations.  

The project received the 2026 CFCI Award for Best Conservation and Alteration of an Existing Building over £3m, a Craftsmanship Award, and the Contractor Award where the Judges remarked “Cocksedge worked closely with the client to deliver exemplary outcomes in challenging circumstances as the building revealed problem after problem as the project progressed and Cocksedge’s ingenuity, persistence and ability to find solutions was incredible”.

Click to see the auditorium works unfold  https://www.artstheatre.co.uk/our-redevelopment/