The Preston Bus Station development presents a unique opportunity to create an integrated vision that will be of genuine benefit to the local community. Our proposal introduces a bold contemporary building to the site that joins with the existing station through the insertion of a 'flowing curtain'. The interior of the station will be refurbished to showcase the clarity and strength of the original design and breathe new life into the building. Across the new public realm, a 'textured carpet' defines a series of large and small spaces with simplicity and elegance.
In designing the development, we have adopted a fully integrated approach that sensitively introduces a contemporary design to its historic neighbour. New public facilities are added that are attractive to all ages, as well as a series of related spaces characterised by openness and flexibility. The result is an inspiring new destination that will bring together both visitors and the local community of Preston.
John Puttick Associates was founded in 2014. Their work includes projects in the UK, the US and China and encompasses the public, cultural and residential sectors. John was born in London and studied architecture at the University of Nottingham and the Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London. His previous experience includes significant projects for David Chipperfield Architects and Make. John's designs have been exhibited internationally and a book of his drawings is held in the Museum of Modern Art's collection in New York. He was a design tutor at the Bartlett School of Architecture for four years.
View across Station Square from the south
Preston Bus Station is a hugely significant twentieth century building and all the shortlisted architects have responded to its bold architecture with skill and empathy. John Puttick's winning scheme cleverly resolves the requirements of the On Side Youth Zone to create a building which will be fun, safe and engaging to use while celebrating the original architecture of the bus station and providing flexible open space, which can become a focal point for community events at the heart of Preston life.
– Hugh Broughton, RIBA Architect Adviser
View from new entrance along Station Hub west side
Preston's young people deserve the best. The Youth Zone will be for them so it was vital the winning design struck a balance between the challenges of building next to the listed bus station and meeting the needs of young people. We are delighted with the outcome. We feel the winning design really does reflect the young people of Preston with innovation, vibrancy and excitement being key factors. The Youth Zone will give the city's young people somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to in their leisure time and I am confident the winning design will enthuse thousands of young people.
– Guy Topping, Chairman of Preston Youth Zone
Jane Wernick Associates (structural)
Skelly & Couch (environmental services)
BBUK (landscape services)
Charcoalblue (acoustics)
Gardiner & Theobald (cost consultants)
The competition is being administered by RIBA Competitions, to whom any enquiries relating to the general conditions of this competition should be addressed.
