Touchstones Rochdale

AE were first enlisted to provide a cultural strategy for Rochdale. This involved reviewing building stock, uses and suggesting architectural solutions for a variety of different buildings across the Rochdale Townships. Funding was secured to re-imagine Touchstones and AE won the commission. Proposals were then developed and the project is currently under construction. The building is extremely important both within the cultural and heritage environment. It sits very close to the impressive Town Hall further down the Esplanade and due to its significant aesthetic and communal historic value it attracts interest both locally and nationally. The scheme comprises a new Community Dining Room where Rochdale’s collection of artefacts are displayed around and within the cafe area, creating an engaging learning space within the most public element of the building.  The exhibition design has been carried out by AE. Galleries are refurbished and new learning and education spaces created together with visible artist studios, common artistic facilities and meeting spaces. The basement is to be converted with open plan and cellular office space, together with artist storage and workshop. Interiors have been inspired by historic photographs with some of the previously lost details reinterpreted. Works are due to complete in 2026 and will undoubtedly become one of Rochdale’s most important and well used cultural and creative