Architects in Lichfield: Joe Fraser Gymnastics Centre
Looking for architects in Lichfield to convert industrial space into a sports facility? Lapworth Architects designed the Joe Fraser Gymnastics Centre at Shires Industrial Estate, transforming two redundant units into a fully operational training and community venue designed around British Gymnastics standards and a clear-span hall.
Lapworth Architects were appointed by Olympic gymnast Joe Fraser to design and deliver his first dedicated gymnastics facility in Lichfield. The project transformed two redundant industrial units at Shires Industrial Estate into a permanent home for training, competition and community sport. The centre is now open and fully operational, hosting daily sessions for children, young people and adults from across the Midlands.
The commission was built on a clear brief. Joe Fraser wanted a practical, durable space that could grow with his club. Our task was to translate that ambition into a building that meets British Gymnastics technical standards while sitting comfortably within an industrial setting.
Project at a glance
-
Location: Shires Industrial Estate, Lichfield
-
Building type: conversion of two industrial units
-
Use: gymnastics training, competition and community sport
-
Key design drivers: clear span, safe ceiling heights, daylight, acoustics, ventilation
-
Outcome: fully operational facility with ancillary spaces and modernised frontage
Technical approach and training hall
We retained the original steel frame and created an uninterrupted clear span with safe ceiling heights for men’s and women’s apparatus. Natural light, acoustic performance and efficient ventilation were balanced to keep the interior bright, quiet and comfortable through daily use.
Movement through the building is direct and legible from arrival to training floor. Ancillary spaces including classrooms, café, changing areas and storage are grouped along one side to keep the main hall open and adaptable as the club grows.
External works and identity
The external treatment uses standing-seam cladding and proportioned openings to modernise the frontage without disguising the building’s industrial origins. The intent was a clear, robust building that reads as a public facility while remaining appropriate to its setting.
Planning and stakeholder coordination
British Gymnastics formally supported the proposal, recognising its role in expanding access to the sport and aligning with the council’s Active Communities 2050 strategy. The application received full approval from Lichfield District Council.
Planning and coordination followed Lapworth’s digital workflow. UK Planning Gateway was used to prepare council-ready documentation, track revisions and keep communication consistent between consultants and the local authority.
Joe Fraser has spoken publicly about the collaboration: “They went above and beyond to help me and my team secure our change of use, working tirelessly around the clock to make sure everything was ready.”
Architects in Lichfield and the wider West Midlands
For clients searching for architects in Lichfield, this project shows Lapworth Architects’ approach to community facilities: practical, disciplined and focused on long-term use. We work across the wider West Midlands, including Sutton Coldfield, Edgbaston and Harborne.
FAQs
What is the Joe Fraser Gymnastics Centre in Lichfield?
A dedicated gymnastics facility created by converting two redundant industrial units into a permanent venue for training, competition and community sport.
Where is the facility located?
Shires Industrial Estate, Lichfield.
What was the key technical requirement for the main hall?
A clear-span training space with safe ceiling heights suitable for men’s and women’s apparatus, alongside good daylight, acoustics and ventilation.
How is the building laid out for day-to-day use?
The main hall is kept open and adaptable, with classrooms, café, changing areas and storage grouped along one side to support clear circulation.
How was the industrial building character handled externally?
Standing-seam cladding and proportioned openings modernise the frontage while keeping the building’s industrial origins legible.
How was planning and coordination managed?
UK Planning Gateway supported council-ready documentation, version control and clear tracking of revisions throughout the planning process.
