Located on a prominent site next to two well-known civic icons, Wembley Stadium and Wembley Arena, the Civic Centre streamlines all aspects of the Council's activities. It has become a hub and heart for the community where residents can meet, shop and eat. The building houses Brent's civic, public and administrative functions under one unified roof, providing office space for 2000 staff.
The building's spaces are arranged around a soaring, naturally-lit foyer and atrium. A large public amphitheatre and staircase within host a programme of arts and cultural experiences that enhance the building. A circular Drum, clad in timber fins, features prominently in this space. It houses a multi-purpose community hall, library, one-stop shop and civic chamber.
Behind this, glazed office wings are open-plan and flexible to provide a future-proofed solution to the diverse community's administrative needs. The building also includes space for retail outlets and a landscaped garden to help it to connect further with the surrounding Wembley Regeneration Area.
The project has been awarded the coveted BREEAM 'Outstanding' rating, the highest possible, and is the first project in its category to have achieved this. It features a 33% reduction in carbon emissions thanks to a combination of solar shading, natural ventilation, a high-performance façade, and combined cooling, heating and power which utilises waste fish oil. It is the most sustainable local authority building to be completed in the UK.
Hopkins have also provided interior design services throughout the project.