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Discover how O2i Design transformed The Engine Room in Bridgwater, creating flexible community spaces that support creativity, learning and collaboration.

The Engine Room

Bridgwater

Somerset Film wanted to create a permanent home that could support its growing programme of creative, educational and community activities. The opportunity to purchase and improve The Engine Room gave the charity the chance to invest in its future. The aim was to create more flexible and accessible spaces while making the best possible use of the existing building.

The Challenge

The building had supported Somerset Film for many years, but it needed to evolve alongside the organisation. The project needed to create better spaces for workshops, training, meetings, film production and community activities, while remaining welcoming, practical and adaptable. The challenge was to make the building work harder without losing the character that had made it such an important part of Bridgwater’s creative community.

The Design

Working closely with Somerset Film and the wider project team, O2i Design developed proposals to refurbish and extend the existing building. The layout was carefully reorganised to create flexible spaces for workshops, training, meetings, exhibitions and film production, while improving accessibility throughout. Every design decision focused on helping the building adapt to the charity’s changing needs and supporting a wide range of activities throughout the year.

O2i Design prepared the architectural design and secured planning permission and Building Regulations approval, helping the project progress smoothly from concept through to construction.

The Outcome

The refurbished Engine Room reopened in 2024 as one of the first completed projects within the Bridgwater Town Deal programme. The completed project has given Somerset Film the space and flexibility to expand its work while securing a permanent home for the organisation. Today, the building supports creative learning, digital media, community events and collaboration, ensuring it continues to play an important role in Bridgwater’s cultural life.

Deborah Richardson, Creative Director of Somerset Film, said:

“The Engine Room’s expanded space isn’t just an architectural transformation; it’s part of our commitment to nurturing artistic collaboration and community engagement regardless of age and experience. As a non-profit, charity-driven organisation, we are dedicated to harnessing the power of film and digital technology to empower and uplift.”

What We Learned

Successful community buildings evolve alongside the organisations they support. By adapting and extending an existing building, it was possible to create a flexible environment that will continue to serve Somerset Film and the wider community for many years to come.

This was our third project with the Engine Room, and you can see our previous project here. To find out more about The Engine Room, please click here.