Designed by architect Reid Jubb Brown Architecture an award winning £6m art and business centre was officially opened in Sunniside, Sunderland this week.

The project, called Theplace, is the culmination of four years dedication, hardwork and vision. It is the latest development in the continuing £130m regeneration of Sunderland's Sunniside area. The project, located on Athenaeum Street, involved the demolition of a hotel together with the integration of six Grade II listed Georgian terrace buildings, bringing them back into use.

It has created a network of interconnected office space possessing a unique glass façade with dozens of highly stylised glass louvres creating a visually spectacular impact.

"The building definitely has the wow factor and has been really well received by everyone - residents, businesses and visitors alike," said Stuart Ainsley the Project Manager for commissioning organisation the Sunniside Partnership.