The Generator, Loughborough

Overview

EP Consulting were delighted to support the refurbishment of The Generator in Loughborough, helping transform a former 1920s power station into a modern, community-led arts venue.

Over the years, this heritage building has had quite a journey, starting life in the 1920s as a working power station, built using salvaged WW1 U-boat equipment. It later became an art school and has now been reimagined into a community-led arts venue for exhibitions, live music, workshops and more, while still holding onto its original character.

Mechanical and Electrical Design

We delivered the mechanical and electrical design, upgrading the building services to meet current standards. This included new circulation routes, a mezzanine level and acoustic treatments to suit performance use. Everything was designed to work alongside the existing structure, making the most of features like exposed brickwork and steel trusses.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Design

A key focus was improving how the building performs without losing what makes it unique. We introduced energy-efficient systems to support net zero ambitions, helping to improve comfort and reduce long-term energy use.

Results and Impact

The Generator is now a flexible, easy-to-use space that can support a wide range of community and cultural activities. It’s a great example of how existing buildings can be thoughtfully adapted for modern use, giving them a new purpose for the future.