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Community Centre in Berkshire


Nestled amidst 80 acres of woodland, this impressive “Rites of Passage Centre” is a groundbreaking initiative by A Band of Brothers. They are a local charity dedicated to supporting young men involved in the criminal justice system and those at risk, through mentoring and guidance.

The centre comprises three spacious workshops, flexible shared accommodation for 20 individuals, and a grand dining area, all interconnected by a tranquil central cloister. A communal heart is formed with an outdoor tiered amphitheatre and a sunken fire pit, fostering a sense of connection and shared purpose.

The centre serves as a gateway to the surrounding woodland, where young men can engage in nature-based activities as part of the ABOB program. This harmonious blend of community engagement and outdoor exploration nurtures personal growth and resilience.

While the project presented several challenges, including funding and land acquisition complexities, we remain steadfast in our commitment to collaborating with A Band of Brothers to bring this vision to life. With the charity’s continued expansion and success, in the future we envision a revised scheme on a new site, further enhancing their ability to transform lives.

"I have worked with few architects who are as down to earth and who really listen to the needs of clients in such a way....Verity is a consummate professional who seems to glide gracefully between the different skill sets of an architect with great ease"... "Even the planning officers were impressed"


“Verity is a consummate professional who seems to glide gracefully between the different skill sets of an architect with great ease. What I mean by this is that she equally at home sitting in a meeting with a Head of Planning, being patient and charming, technically drafting innovative ideas or in hard nosed discussions about how the build can be delivered within budget. I have worked with few architects who are as down to earth and who really listen to the needs of clients in such a way. Highly recommended.”

Google: Nathan Roberts

“Lacey Architecture was our preferred Architect for our residential training centre this year. This included 3 large workrooms, a commercial kitchen and 20 ensuite bedrooms. As our centre was both in the Green belt and a designated Area of Natural Beauty (AONB), the building design had to be both environmentally sensitive and cutting edge. We were literally blown away by the designs that Verity produced! Everything we explicitly asked for (and even things we hadn’t realised we wanted!) were included in the designs. Use of green tech and considerations like private seating areas, covered walkways (and even an outdoor amphitheatre!) were incorporated, all the while ensuring the whole build blended seamlessly into the natural environment and surrounding woodland. Furthermore, the attention to detail and aftercare throughout the whole planning process was second to none. Even the planning officers were impressed – not only with the design, but also the thoroughness and responsiveness at every stage of the process. We are so grateful that we were recommended Lacey Architecture and will definitely use them again for our future projects!

Google: Dan Hartley