Chetwoods were appointed by Associated British Ports to design a new £11m bespoke facility for Royal Navy Reservists to be built in Cardiff Bay. The development provides a modern 21st century training establishment that meets the aspirations of the UK’s Reserves Forces for the next 50 years.

The building has state-of-the-art training and classroom suites, accommodation, and administrative services as well as social and fitness facilities. There is access to the waterfront and docking facilities for visiting warships.

An innovative approach to the design of the building was required to create a strong image that reflects the ‘brand’ of the Royal Navy. The Royal Navy is a powerful entity with a proud heritage that demands a strong identity to project into the future.  It is a unique combination of land, air and sea capabilities merged into a single flexible and dynamic force. The design of the building looks to capture this essence.

The project was delivered by the Reserve Forces’ & Cadets’ Association for Wales in partnership with the Royal Navy and Associated British Ports.