Open Gate: Cultural Centre for 99 Bishopsgate
Objective:
Generate a compelling offer attractive for Brookfield Properties’ Activated Programme, City of London, Cultural Sector and Future Tenant(s). To offset the public harm of the building height against the positive public benefit.
SRD Culture began the work with Brookfield Properties and RSHP in July 2023 by auditing the City of London’s cultural provision to identify potential opportunities. We found that there is a need of smaller cultural centres where young creators can develop AND showcase work. In November 2023, we held roundtable and co-design workshops with 18–25-year-olds & RSHP to inform the vision; connect to place identity; and provide indicative uses seen in the submitted Cultural Plan.
The result is a mission of reinstating Bishopsgate as a contemporary cultural gateway that fulfils the Destination City agenda to Welcome All. We prioritised a new offer for the City — a ‘gateway’ vision that invites under-represented voices to take ‘residence’.
We sought an organisation that already existed and need a home and want to grow to operate the 6 floors of Gallery, Hall and Studios (with up to 90 creative studio desk-spaces) and deliver with an authentic interest to outreach to the community. We were introduced to Intermission Youth and their need for a new home by the Mayor of London’s ‘Making Space for Culture’ team. Their purpose; connection to quality presentation; and a desire to be embedded in a greater London community matched Brookfield Properties’ ambition for the cultural building.
Operators:
