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Spectrum

• Location: Site in Cornwall yet to be determined
• Client: Spectrum
• Cost: £6-8m
• Year: Pre-construction phase

In October 2011, PBWC Architects won the architectural ideas competition to design a new base for Spectrum, a Cornish based charity. Spectrum has over 25 years’ experience of supporting people with autistic spectrum disorders and other associated conditions.

The 3000sqm project will include an arts centre, day school and supported homes within a parkland setting. Sustainability and a robust commitment to low carbon design form the foundation for the project brief.

Spectrum was founded in 1982 and originally known as Devon & Cornwall Autistic Community Trust. It was initially led by parents of autistic children seeking positive choices for people within the autism spectrum approaching adulthood, beyond old-fashioned institutionalisation in long stay hospitals.

The organisation grew rapidly, developing and refining its approaches towards managing autism, and in particular the associated challenging behaviours. Together with other professionals, a methodology of strategies and interventions was devised which became the core of Spectrum’s non-aversive, proactive positive behaviour management techniques.

The exciting project to create a purpose built centre to support the work of Spectrum will be delivered in phases to suit charitable fundraising initiatives, including an art auction at the Saatchi Gallery in London in the spring of 2012. PBWC are delighted to be working with the team at Spectrum on this exemplar facility.

For more information about the Spectrum Group please visit www.spectrumasd.org

architects@pbwc.co.uk tel: +44(0)1736 792000 fax: +44(0)1736 792001