BFF appointed as architects for The Picture House Campbeltown

We are delighted to announce that we have been appointed as architects for the refurbishment and redevelopment of the Picture House, Campbeltown, on the West Coast of Scotland.

The Picture House is community owned and run, and is the oldest purpose built cinema in Scotland still showing films. It was established in 1913 and has now launched a "Centenary Project" to breathe new life into its historic building, which is Listed Grade A. The unique interior will be refurbished to bring it up to the standards expected of a modern cinema going audience, whilst respecting the historic building in which it is housed. Enhanced front of house facilities will be provided and the feasibility of a second cinema auditorium will be investigated.

BFF worked, with the cinema's owners and operators, on an initial scheme design that contributed to a successful first stage bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund. Following a competitive process, we have now been appointed to lead the design work for the refurbishment project. Through our long association with many independent cinemas throughout the UK, we are very aware of the importance of these venues to their local communities and we are delighted to be able to contribute to the future of such an historically important and much loved cinema.

Jane Mayo, Chairman of Campbeltown Community Business, said:       

"The Board of CCB is very excited that it has been able to assemble such an outstanding design team. The fact that such excellent specialists have committed themselves to this important project to restore and enhance our historic building, emphasises the importance of the cinema not only to its local community but also nationally within Scotland, the United Kingdom and even on the world stage."

Planning permission secured for Newlyn Filmhouse

We are pleased to announce that Planning Permission has been secured for the Newlyn Filmhouse.  The two-screen digital cinema, with a cafe/bar, will be created in a former fish store on the Coombe in Newlyn, Cornwall.

BFF have worked with the owners over the past five years to find a suitable site in the area for their vision of a new cultural cinema.  Externally the conversion will make use of existing large shuttered openings at ground and first floor level and retain the character and appearance of the building as a former light industrial building.  The internal design of the screens will take inspiration from venue's coastal location, whilst providing state-of-the-art digital projection facilities and comfortable seats.  

The film programme will include a wise range of independent and world films, feature documentaries, archive films and cultural activities, including live streamed events such as plays, opera, dance and exhibition openings.  The Filmhouse will compliment and enhance the existing cultural and commercial enterprises in the town, including the Newlyn Gallery and the Newlyn Art School.