Take a look at this amazing building I spotted over @ PSFK called The Public. I can’t help but draw some comparisons to the RIC.

The Public is a new creative centre designed by Alsop architects and due to open this summer - in West Bromwich. Not the first place you would expect to find one of Britain’s largest cultural buildings, the £40 million space encompassing a gallery, theatre, event space and cafe on the outskirts of Birmingham hopes that by becoming a creative landmark it will inspire the local community and encourage social and economic regeneration.

According to the architects >

The Public represents both a starting point and an opportunity for the people of West Bromwich, reinforcing the towns eroded sense of identity.

Obviously there is a huge difference in aesthetics & age (about 90yrs!!!) . However,.. the overall idea for the use of both The Public & The RIC are exactly the same. “A landmark that encourages social and economic regeneration.” The size of the RIC alone (2.2million sq/ft) is a reminder of the sheer mass and strength of the industrial revolution. It’s now up to the creativity of individuals to re-invent & imagine what is possible for the future of the RIC. I personally think it’s exciting to see how the success inside of the RIC can and will start to impact the surrounding areas both economically and socially. 1 sq/ft @ a time.

Any thoughts?…

Visit > The Public

Via > PSFK