UK architecture studio Thing has transformed a former library in Cornwall into an arts and cultural hub , contrasting its historic surfaces with timber elements informed by theatre stage sets. Named The Ladder, the centre is housed within the Grade II-listed Passmore Edwards Library and College buildings in Redruth, originally opened in 1895 and funded by Cornish philanthropist John Passmore Edwards. Thing has transformed a former library in Cornwall into an arts hub Following the relocation of the library to the nearby Alma Place, a local campaign was organised to prevent the historic structures from being turned into flats and to preserve its role as a community space. Thing worked with local conservation architect Claire Newman to transform the buildings into a nursery and a series of flexible spaces for local performers and artists, defined by timber structures that sit alongside its retained, worn surfaces.…