About the project

Youth Engagement Contact: casey@teamviy.com

Project Overview

The project at St Matthews Children’s Action Group (WhatCabin) involved painting the interior and exterior of the building, which hadn’t been refreshed in over 15 years. Interior repainting replaced outdated, garish primary colours with calming tones proven to benefit children’s mood and focus, creating a more welcoming environment for alternative provision classes. Exterior updates aimed to uplift the space, encouraging more families to use the venue.

Retrofitting measures included installing secondary glazing, improving draught exclusion on external doors, and adding water-saving devices, making the building more comfortable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective. These improvements align with the group’s mission to provide free, inclusive play sessions and activities for children aged 5-12 in a welcoming, supportive environment.

Since 1989, the WhatCabin has served as a vital community hub, offering workshops, social events, and free play schemes where children can explore sports, art, self-esteem building, and more, while shaping their own experiences through participation.