Serpentine Centre

The Serpentine Centre For the Creative Arts (SCCA) is an adaptive reuse project which looks to bring a new life to an existing Police Station in Kitchener, Ontario. Acting as a ‘snake of light,’ the new addition constricts and squeezes out the darkness of the station. This is achieved both physically, through creating a more light filled environment and socially, signifying to the public that this is a space that is rid of the negative connotations it previously held. Furthermore, it acts as a place that welcomes all from across the community. The building mimics a section of the existing facade, and applies it as the ‘snake skin.’ A number of sustainability factors were considered in the project; the station’s grid structure was maintained, insulation was improved in the walls, and mass timber was used in the new structure. The addition looks to integrate and unify the existing site, providing open shared spaces to connect Kitchener Public Library and the Registry Theatre. Ultimately, the SCCA is about the rebirth of the existing police station. With the darkness expelled, the building is now filled with light - calling all members from a diverse community to enjoy a space built just for them.