Place Culture has been working with Camden Council and Bennetts Associates to refresh the design and operating strategy for their landmark HQ at 5 Pancras Square. Designed by Bennetts and opened in 2014, the building houses three public floors—library, contact centre, leisure centre—alongside the council’s offices.

5PS plays an important civic role at the intersection of three of the city’s busiest stations and an affluent central business district. The adjoining Somers Town and St Pancras neighbourhoods however remain among the most economically challenged areas of Camden, with 40% of children living in poverty. This fast-growing ward is expected to see a 30.8% population increase over the next decade, double the borough’s overall growth rate. Somers Town is home to an active and supportive community, with 27% of employed residents working in public services. Issues such as social exclusion and loneliness—particularly among different age groups—require further attention, exacerbated by the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The building is the focus of an elevated presentation of need, especially into the council’s contact centre. With more than a decade having past since opening, there was a requirement to review how library, offices and contact centre can operate as an integrated unit. Our report and the resulting design review focussed on re-balancing a welcome agenda based on balancing safety, welcome and inclusion.