A Gateshead-based construction firm has secured a major contract to help deliver a "world class" recording studio on Newcastle's Quayside.

Arcas Building Solutions is refurbishing the Grade II listed Coronation Building, owned by the Live Theatre - one of the UK’s new writing theatres, recognised for its innovative business model of using property assets to support its charitable and artistic objectives - to develop the £1.5m Quayside Studios.

Exclusive new images offer a first look at what the state-of-the-art facility could look like - with “excellent progress” meaning the project is set to be completed this summer.

It is the latest major contract win for Arcas Building Solutions, which has worked on hundreds of North East developments including several major cultural landmarks.

"Our involvement builds on a strong track record of working within the arts and heritage sector, including the successful refurbishment and enhancement of venues such as Alnwick Playhouse and Tyneside Cinema," said Michael Nesbit, Managing Director of Arcas Building Solutions.

"These projects have provided us with valuable insight into the unique challenges and opportunities that come with upgrading creative spaces, while preserving their character and purpose.

"Working closely with Live Theatre, and with significant interest and support from Newcastle City Council, this scheme is designed to create a high-quality, industry-standard facility capable of attracting leading artists, producers, and creative talent to the region."

With four recording studios, the site will also include a live room, podcasting suites, a photography and film studio alongside a multimedia and educational suite.

Funded by the North East Combined Authority (NECA), using money from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, it comes on the back of a Sam Fender-fuelled musical boom for the city which will once again host the Mercury Prize in 2027.

The site will ultimately be occupied by SW6 One, a creative studio that counts Disney, Warner Music and artists such as Central Cee and Burna Boy amongst its clients.

Having commenced work in late-2025, Arcas' team has demolished and stripped existing workspaces to make way for the studios.

A glass facade at the building's rear will be replaced, with Arcas Building Solutions also giving the interiors a facelift.

And with the job's scale requiring a dedicated project team, it has also created jobs at Arcas Building Solutions - while solidifying the company's reputation within the region.

"With the project already well underway, we are making excellent progress on site and look forward to completing the development in summer 2026," added Michael.

"The finished building will provide a dynamic, modern space that supports creativity, collaboration, and growth within the local arts sector.

"As a North East-based contractor, this project also reflects our wider ambition to establish Arcas Building Solutions Limited as a key player in the regional construction industry, delivering high-quality, technically demanding schemes that make a lasting contribution to the communities we serve.”