Pixel Penzance
Penzance’s high street, like many across the UK, has faced significant challenges in recent years. Changing retail habits and declining footfall have left many units vacant, diminishing the vibrancy of the town centre.
Recognising the need for a bold intervention, Cornwall Council commissioned Pixel, a 1,500m² creative hub designed to bring new life to the heart of the town.
Designed for creative diversity
Spread across three floors, Pixel is a versatile, purpose-built home that brings together creators from diverse fields—whether potters, painters, journalists, or architects—to encourage innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The ground floor combines coworking and lounge spaces with a gallery and event area, while the upper floors house private studios and meeting rooms, some with panoramic views of Penzance harbour. The adaptable design allows studios to be configured and kitted out as needed, while futureproofing the building for the evolving needs of Penzance’s creative community.
This dedicated workspace will help encourage collaboration and innovation for businesses in a sector that is fast-growing within the Cornish economy. It’s crucial we bring businesses and jobs to our town centres if we are to revitalise our high streets.
Stephen Rushworth, Cornwall Council
Creating a new landmark
Once home to a historic reservoir and later a cattle market, Pixel’s size and curved form pay tribute to its history, referencing the footprint of its previous use. We carefully retained and repaired the original 18th century stone boundary walls to create a tactile connection between old and new. Above, glass-clad upper storeys appear to float, their transparency offering glimpses into the creative life within.
The facade’s frosted glass and programmable lighting create a distinctive visual identity, illuminating the Penzance skyline. This juxtaposition of contemporary materials with traditional brick and granite creates a striking building that introduces a bold, modern presence to the town centre while acknowledging the site’s historic foundations.
BREEAM ‘Excellent’
Roof-mounted photovoltaic panels generate clean energy, while high-performance insulation and heat-recovery ventilation systems significantly reduce heating requirements. We’ve also made sustainable commuting practical with secure bicycle storage, showers, and lockers—supporting Penzance’s creative community while helping to reduce Pixel’s carbon footprint.
A catalyst for Penzance’s renewal
By providing high-quality, accessible workspaces for circa 34 creative enterprises, Pixel is already playing a pivotal role in reshaping Penzance’s future. Beyond being a home for creative businesses, it’s increasing high street footfall, creating new employment opportunities, and demonstrating how thoughtful architecture can bring new life to town centres.
