The Oval Pavilion

The height of the proposed development is informed by the existing building, which is a single storey structure. Maintaining this as the maximum height for all structures on site will ensure sign-lines from the surrounding properties are maintained to maximise sea views. The current tiled exterior of the pavilion is severely damaged, with numerous missing sections and spots filled with screed with drawn lines mimicking tile pattern. Our plan involves sourcing replicas of these tiles to restore the structure’s exterior. Additionally, we aim to create new door and window openings within the building’s structure, repairing these openings using the replicated tiles to maintain consistency across the facade. As security is a concern at The Oval, these openings will be safeguarded using surface mounted roller shutters painted in a colour to match the brown tiles, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic continuity.

Inside the pavilion, we’re planning a new layout to maximise the limited space and enhance its functionality. This includes reorganising entrances to the toilets, combining male and female cubicles into one room to create non-gendered facilities, and setting up a separate urinal room to prevent queues forming during busy times. Space previously used by the underutilised toilet layouts has been transformed into an events bar, supporting our various free community events. The old storeroom will become an indoor community café, ensuring our presence on site throughout the year, not just during the summer season. Our storage needs have been met by using the existing shipping containers located in the auditorium and gardening area. The café aims to accommodate indoor seating for about ten people and outdoor seating for dozens more. We plan to preserve existing internal tiled surfaces, when possible, while introducing a new fully insulated plasterboard ceiling, updated lighting, a service counter, adaptable commercial kitchen fixtures and fittings, and a wall mounted extract hood.