Final chapter begins to turn ‘forgotten’ building into magical story destination

Lumsden Design is leading the design, masterplan and fit out for the final phase of a two-year building project to create children’s literacy charity Grimm & Co’s new permanent home.

Rotherham-based Grimm & Co purchased the gothic property on Ship Hill in 2020, thanks to support from an Arts Council England small capital grant.

But with delays due to the pandemic and additional delays on the construction phase that followed, the organisation now hopes to open in autumn 2023.

The enhanced and accessible offering will include a story themed café, a function/theatre/banqueting space and three different Writer’s Pad spaces to welcome schools, families and story lovers from across the region and beyond.

Lumsden’s partnership with the charity has been made possible with further funding from the Future High Streets Fund and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (in association with RMBC), together with support from Key Fund, Northern Cultural Regeneration Fund, plus support from an anonymous local donor.

Deborah Bullivant, founding director of Grimm & Co, said: “We’re thrilled that Lumsden, with an impressive, world class portfolio including Kew Gardens, The National Gallery and Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The making of Harry Potter in both London & Tokyo, are bringing their expertise and a touch of designer magic to capture our spirit and build our creative vision into a reality.

“Lumsden are designing and transforming this beautiful space into an enchanting place full of awe and wonder, creating Grimm & Co’s Emporium of Stories, a creative, welcoming, inclusive space for everyone, offering an unusual, imaginative safe space for children, families and visitors of all ages to enjoy.

“The children and young people who the charity work with are excited to work with Lumsden and have been invaluable advisers to the design and transformation of this truly remarkable building.”

Lisa Pogson, chair of the Board of Trustees, said: “Lumsden’s reassuring and extensive portfolio demonstrates an impressive array of projects that are functionally fabulous while being cutting edge and stunningly innovative. Our vision is in good hands.”

James Dwyer, owner and creative director of Lumsden Design, added: “We are immensely proud to collaborate with Grimm & Co, supporting their incredible work inspiring young minds through the transformative power of storytelling.

“Working with Deborah and her team has been a joyous journey, and together Lumsden and Grimm & Co are creating a magical experience, blending Grimm’s captivating storytelling with enchanting interior design, to spark creativity, inspire minds, and help build brighter futures for young people.”

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