Bournemouth International Centre
Footprint Architects were commissioned by BH Live to redesign the Purbeck Entrance, Lounge, Bar and WC facilities at the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC)—a significant regional venue for public conferences, entertainment, and live broadcasts. The project revitalises this landmark site while strengthening its identity, functionality and environmental performance.
Sustainability
- Highly insulated window system to latest Building Regulations (U- and g-value compliant)
- FSC-certified glulam timber used for new roof and structure
- Native cliff-top planting integrated into roof design
- Materials and finishes selected for durability, ecology and low maintenance
Context & Place
- Enhances a regionally significant conference venue in a prominent clifftop setting
- Reinforces a sense of arrival and architectural identity on Bournemouth’s seafront
- Carefully considered views and planting create a visual and ecological link to landscape
People & Communities
- Supports flexible public use: from formal conferencing to informal gatherings
- Improves accessibility, hygiene, and comfort standards in public WC and lounge areas
- Minimised disruption to public operation through accelerated programme delivery
Reimagining Arrival and Identity
Located on Bournemouth’s iconic cliff top, the entrance to the Purbeck Lounge and Terraces commands views across the beach and pier. The existing glazed frontage was thermally inefficient and in disrepair. Footprint replaced it with a highly insulated FSC-certified glulam timber structure and a new window system, achieving compliance with the latest building regulations for U-values and g-values.
The redesigned entrance anchors the building in its sensitive coastal setting, incorporating native cliff-top planting across the new roofscape. This not only enhances biodiversity but deepens the building’s connection to place. Carefully repositioned glazing frames new sea views, while interior finishes were fully upgraded to create a welcoming, light-filled, and climate-conscious public space.
Flexible, Future-Facing Facilities
The redesigned entrance has become more than a threshold—it now functions as a venue in its own right, supporting breakout functions and hospitality. Internally, the works link key areas of the BIC, improving connectivity to the Purbeck Hall and associated lounges.
Footprint also delivered the interior fit-out of the Purbeck Bar and Lounge. With panoramic sea views, this high-quality facility has been reimagined for conferencing and social events. The redesigned toilet areas serve varying functions and clientele including black tie events, conferences, winter ice skating and various music events so are durable and functional to suit the high footfall use and fitting for a 21st century music and events venue.
Collaborative Delivery
Delivered in close coordination with the contractor, this £1.2m refurbishment was completed within an 11-week window—minimising disruption and revenue loss for the operator.
With new refurbishment phases already commissioned for summer 2025, Footprint Architects continues to support BH Live in futureproofing one of Bournemouth’s most prominent civic venues.
Talk to us about your retrofit goals or see more of our sustainable public buildings.
Relevant Projects
Designing a Specialist Creative Arts and Social Centre for Individuals with Diverse Learning Abilities
Get Your Project Off The Ground
Get in touch today to kick-start your project. Let us know a few details and we’ll be in touch to discuss bringing your vision to life. Or call us on 01202 818 966