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Y.M.C.A
Portsmouth
Hampshire
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Detailed DescriptionThe Y.M.C.A is now probably not what it once was. According to Pevsners text it was formerly the Fountain Inn. The 17th century building has a mansard roof (a double slope to the roof, the lower part being steeper than the upper) that runs in parallel with the high street. The exterior is vast and dominates the high street at this point, the front was stuccoed however it now seems that the plaster has been removed to expose the red brick behind. The brick work is extensive but not very elaborated , with a protruding central spine going through the four storeys of the buildings. Dormers come out from the mansard roof which face towards Portsmouth Cathedral. The building actually has a main structure, that is difficult to spot without studying the front properly. The middle five bays are in unison with each spread evenly whereas the other two bays are slightly further apart. The ground floor has actually been rebuilt at some point, the brickwork is more interesting with every fifth course being sinked. The arch recesses here are a typical Portsmouth pattern. Finally Pevsner mentions a extension to the building "At the back of the old building, flanking Penny Street, are extensions to the Y.M.C.A., 1965 by F.J. Guy, about the only bit of decent modern building in Old Portsmouth" it is now demolished. Architect
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