A community space for young people in Southall that was reopened less than a year ago has won a design award.
Ealing Council’s Young Adult Centre (YAC) was handed the Full Design Award at the Ealing Civic Society Annual Awards 2025 this week (Tuesday 21 October).
The award is the highest honour the society gives and hasn’t been awarded in more than 3 years. The last previous winner was Pitshanger Manor, so the centre is in great company.
Each year, the Society promotes good design and works to protect the borough’s heritage by celebrating building and environmental projects that make a real difference to our 7 towns. Winners get a certificate and a special plaque to display.
The YAC was built in 1998. But in 2024, it underwent a £2.4 million transformation shaped by the young people who used it.
It resulted in a bright, welcoming and energy-efficient space. The building now has:
- a gym with new equipment
- a training kitchen with wheelchair-accessible units
- an ICT and craft space on a new mezzanine level
- better insulation, lighting and ventilation
- a new lift and improved signage
The energy rating jumped from F to A thanks to new windows, doors and an air source heat pump. The fire alarm and CCTV systems were also upgraded.
And, young people, staff and visitors helped shape the design from the start. Their ideas helped create a space that works for everyone.
The award plaque and certificate will be proudly displayed in the centre’s reception.
Councillor Josh Blacker, the council’s cabinet member for a fairer start, said: “This shows what’s possible when we invest in places that matter. The Young Adult Centre is now a space where young people can feel proud, supported and inspired.
“Just one example of the great work being done at the YAC is its use by local schools for children who might otherwise be excluded. To have an award-winning location for this and other activities for young people is a real asset to the local area.”
You can find out more about the YAC on the Young Ealing website.
