aberystwyth arts centre by heatherwick studio photo © james morris

opening today is aberystwyth arts centre, designed by UK firm heatherwick studio, the architectural commission will provide much needed studio and workshop space for arts organisations in wales.

striking in design the simple timber‐frame buildings are clad with a bespoke crinkled stainless steel system that creates a shimmering futuristic appearance, reflecting the greenery of the site. the special cladding system was fabricated on site using a contraption similar to a victorian mangle that deformed the steel into its irregular form. the studios sit within woodland, and over time will blend further into the maturing landscape around them.

heatherwick studio: aberystwyth arts centre, wales aberystwyth arts centre photo © james morris

heatherwick studio: aberystwyth arts centre, wales aberystwyth arts centre photo © james morris

heatherwick studio: aberystwyth arts centre, wales aberystwyth arts centre photo © james morris