Bluecoat Bistro Redevelopment Project

Following a major capital redevelopment in 2008, Bluecoat has re-established itself as a multi-disciplinary arts centre, with a broad visual, performing and literary arts programme, with a dedicated participation offer, a working community of artists and cohort of creative organisations, businesses and retailers. In 2018, Bluecoat secured capital funding to develop the ground floor public area of the. The project transformed the space by creating a welcoming and inviting visitor experience and through improved building legibility and wayfinding created a gateway to facilitate visitors understanding of Bluecoat's offer. In 2024, Bluecoat secured capital funding from Arts Council England and Liverpool City Council, UKSPF Fund to redevelop the first floor Bistro Space. The project will create an accessible, flexible space. Its versatility will allow configurations for different performances and events, for public and private use, enabling us to better reflect our vision, mission and values. In April 2024 Bluecoat appointed a Design Team, led by Architectural Emporium, to develop a design to meet the project brief and vision. We seek to create a vibrant and welcoming accessible events space with high quality and sustainable facilities. We will reconfigure Bluecoat's 'Bistro', into a large accessible event & performance space by removing the bar, creating a single floor level, installing sound and lighting infrastructure giving greater flexibility for a range of arts activities. This will enable us to hold performances and programme across music, dance, literature, live art, & visual art. We will build on the success of our arts markets and public fairs and host larger participatory events for our visitors, participants and stakeholders.