The Radley Rotunda is a circular timber-built community room, which will provide a meeting place for residents of a new housing development (270 homes) and the surrounding area of Radley, Oxfordshire. It is set in a community garden, and the construction methods are deliberately low-carbon. The Rotunda Community Centre Trustees are seeking expressions of interest from artists experienced in various mediums, including carved wood or decorative metal work to design and create functional artistic works in two areas:

1. Decorative sculptural canopy and portico for
a. the front entrance of the community building
and
b. sculptural canopy at the rear linking the building and the garden and outside spaces.

2. Sculptural seating area for the community garden - work with natural materials to create an imaginative and decorative, yet functional, community seating area using hard and soft landscaping ideas in keeping with the location.

This project aims to enhance the aesthetics of the entrance while providing a shaded area for users of the centre as well as include the community in the creation of the facility (please refer to the supporting documents at the end of this brief for dimensions and architectural detail).

Community Engagement: We encourage the artist to work closely with the community during the design phase. Engagement with the local community is an essential aspect of this project, from engaging local residents in identifying themes and motifs to working with the local community. We would therefore particularly welcome applications from artists with experience of working with communities, families, children and young people.

Possible design inspiration: There are many sources of inspiration that could be celebrated within the designs. The Trustees are particularly keen on using influences from;
• the archaeological evidence of hut circles on this exact site, dating from the bronze or iron age.
• Local flora and fauna
• Organic shapes and material
• Local and natural history (Thames)

Design Proposal: The appointed artist/s will be responsible for proposing a design concept for either one or both of the sculptural canopy (back) and portico (front) and the sculptural seating and landscaped area. The designs should align with the architectural style and ethos of the community centre. A design fee will be available for this phase once the artist has been selected.

Creation, Construction, and Installation: Upon approval of the design, the artist will be responsible for the creation, construction, and installation of both features. This includes selecting appropriate materials and ensuring the design is structurally sound and safe for public use.

Materials: We are open-minded about the materials to be used for this project. Artists are welcome to propose materials that align with their artistic vision and expertise (including but not limited to) carved wood, metalwork, or an artist/ design to work with a fabricator.

Submission Requirements:

Please state which element of the project you are interested in, either
1. A) portico (front) and b) decorative canopy (back)

2. the sculptural seating and landscaped area.
or
3. Both

Interested artists are requested to submit the following:
• A portfolio of previous work demonstrating relevant experience/ projects
• A brief written expression of interest outlining your artistic vision for The Rotunda canopy and/or seating project.
• An estimated timeline for the project.
• Confirmation you have adequate insurance (£10m Public Liability and £5m Professional Indemnity) and a valid DBS check
• Details of 2 references of previous commissioners

Selection Process:
Submissions will be evaluated by a selection committee consisting of trustees of the Radley Rotunda Trust and members of Radley Parish Council. Shortlisted artists will be invited for an interview to discuss their proposals in more detail.

Interviews are anticipated to be held in mid-January. The successful artist will be commissioned by Radley Parish Council.
We anticipate commencing design work in May 2024 and installation of the building from Autumn 2024.
Background papers and technical specification:
• PLANS AND FULL DETAILS are in the downloads section here: Planning Application P23/V0307/FUL (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
• The company building the hall is Rotunda Roundhouse. See Image Gallery @ Rotunda Roundhouses – Unique Garden Rooms & Yurt Style Eco-Buildings (NB our design does not include an integral covered veranda).