Cardiff’s Old Library will be transformed into a new home for the Performing arts.

The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama’s plans have been approved to redevelop the Grade II* listed building which will return the building to its historical function and will include creating music and performance spaces, promoting & protecting the Welsh language and providing a ‘city living room’ for public access, with the conceptual design developed by Flanagan Lawrence Architects.  

Principal of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Professor Helena Gaunt: “As the National Conservatoire of Wales we want to spark curiosity and nurture the most diverse range of talents, combining innovation with cultural tradition with Welsh heritage. It is a real thrill to have this opportunity to bring the magic of the College right into the heart of Wales’ capital city, and work alongside local people, artists, and creatives to transform our plans into a reality. Breathing new life into the Old Library is part of the RWCMD promise to Wales, its capital and to our future generations.” 

Jason Flanagan, Partner at Flanagan Lawrence: “The opportunity for the Royal Welsh College to create a Performing Arts Centre in the Old Library seems tailor made,’ said Jason Flanagan. The key architectural idea is to return the Grand Rooms in the southern wing to their original state, allowing them to become wonderful spaces for musical performance and rehearsal. Enabling the public to enjoy performances inside the building, as well as outside on the Hayes, will make the Old Library, alongside St David’s Hall, a focal point in the heart of Cardiff as a city of music.”