The reworking of the Nelson Centre of Musical Arts is not just good news for those that use the building; it’s good for the entire community. In restoring the original character of this ‘grand old dame’, the architects have given civic pride a shot in the arm while strengthening the city’s relationship with heritage. The extension to the Centre is a performance piece in its own right, with world-class recital, recording and practice spaces collected under a roof that cascades respectfully away from the existing building to a glazed façade that brings activity and theatre to the street.