A one-day charrette, an intensive, multi-disciplinary brainstorming workshop where visionary ideas are encouraged, took place on 26 May 2004 at the Tilbury Cruise Terminal in Thurrock and was attended by leading international practitioners.

This charrette considered new and appropriate forms of cultural facilities in the 21st century.

Introduction
There is a tiredness around the idea of the single cultural icon, and a growing awareness that new models of cultural facilities need to be explored which allow for the showcasing and production of diverse cultural output.

Can network models/webs of cultural activity be more relevant than the individual cultural centre?

How can the concept of a ‘Gateway’ inform the provision and identity of cultural facilities in the Thames Gateway?

How can new forms of cultural facilities enable Thurrock to present itself as a vibrant cultural, as well as physical, gateway to the rest of the sub-region?

In considering this built manifestation, how should local engagement and national presence be balanced? Is a nationally recognised cultural facility appropriate?

More information on culture in Thurrock

The Brief
Once the above issues have been considered the participants were asked to devise a visionary brief which responds to the following prompts:

• What is the new cultural facility?
• What does this new cultural facility look like?
• What is the process required to achieve it?

To see the outcomes from this charrette, click here.

To see the overriding principles that emerged from all three charrettes, click here.