Commercial Architecture
Building Design Northern are leading the £2m transformation of the Sheepfolds Stables, Sunderland.
Planning permission has been accepted to transform the Grade II listed stables into an exciting new food, drink and leisure venue. Historically utilised as a stables for working horses, BDN have acquired the derelict buildings to transform them into a vibrant new city centre venue.
The venue will be connected to the city centre by the new Wear footbridge that will provide a pedestrian and cyclist crossing between Sheepfolds and the former Vaux Brewery site, both of which are being spectacularly reimagined as part of Sunderland City Council’s Riverside Sunderland delivery plan.
The existing structures on the site were considered to be in very poor condition, and required extensive remedial works to bring back into appropriate use. Our design team, therefore, carefully considered each building by their historic merit to inform the design proposals, restoring them for appropriate use.
The plans for the Sheepfolds Stables building, designed by BDN, have been granted permission by Sunderland City Council. They include eight shop-fronted units, as well as two open courtyards, providing attractive outdoor spaces for events and entertainment.
They will look to run a range of events, including pre-match events, markets and concerts in the venue, which will draw visitors from the city and beyond. A contemporary extension will be added to the grade II listed stables, whilst also utilising and maximising the current historic buildings and outdoor space. The new two storey element to the west of the site will elevate visitors above the brick walling surrounding the site, capitalising on expansive views across the River Wear. The modern interventions contrast the original red brick of the existing structures with metal standing seam cladding.
Essential building work started in January 2022 to ensure the building remained safe. Works are now able to accelerate on the redevelopment of the space, with a view to it opening its doors during 2023.
Occupiers joining the Sheepfolds line up include Hairy Biker’s star Si King, who will offer a creative menu inspired by flavours from around the world, and The Calabash Tree who will serve up authentic Caribbean dishes. Speyside Distillers, will open ‘The Spey Snug’ whisky lounge, and collaborate with contemporary cocktail operators YEM, to create a unique whisky and gin experience for customers. Yem aims to be the region’s best cocktail bar offering high-end cocktails with a North East spirit. Tamar Hassan, a skilled chef who has worked in some of the world’s best restaurants, will open an Asian-inspired restaurant, Hidden Lotus. Southpaw Dance Company, a contemporary dance theatre company, are also joining the line-up, establishing their new creative studio at Sheepfolds Stables.
Businesses interested in finding out about the retail and commercial spaces within the building should contact BDN, at hello@bdnltd.com or call 0191 535 6189.