Spaces young people want to use
A youth centre may include a gym, a games room, a music room, a kitchen, study spaces, a lounge and offices. If it feels like a school, young people may stay away. If it feels designed for them, they come back.
We work with staff and, where possible, youth input, to choose layouts, colours and furniture that feel welcoming but hold up under heavy use.
Supervision and safety
Staff need clear sightlines, safe entrances and secure after-hours control. Our low voltage team installs cameras, door access and alarms, and our doors and hardware crew installs durable entries. Our electrical crew, led by a Master Electrician, provides lighting, power and emergency systems.
Noise and activity
Music rooms, gyms and games areas make noise. Acoustic separation keeps quiet rooms quiet. Our interior systems crew builds acoustic walls and ceilings, and our mechanical crew installs HVAC and plumbing with ventilation suited to active rooms.
Our carpenters and millwork team build counters, lockers, shelving and seating that stand up to use. Our painters apply washable coatings, and corner guards and wall protection reduce damage.
Many youth centres operate with grants, so we provide clear phases and budgets and help organizations apply a first stage within available funds.
Plan for these items
Organizations should consider:
- Age groups served and hours of operation
- Kitchen and food program space
- Quiet and active zones
- Outdoor access
- Accessible washrooms and entrances
Getting started
Tell us who uses the centre now and who you want to reach. We will help match spaces and budgets to the programs you run and the funding you have.
Questions we hear
Can youth be involved in design?
We are open to it. Input from young people can guide layouts and finishes, and we can arrange sessions with the owner.