Architecture 00 / WhitbyWood – C1 Design District
The client for C1 wanted the building to be low cost, affordable and allow for a diverse mix of use. Architecture 00’s aims were to create an enabling infrastructure for various potential future activities and to increase the interaction and engagement between tenants and the public.
The building also needed to be:
- Low cost/low rent
- Good internal to external space ratio
- Minimal material finishes
- Durable maintenance free materials
- Sense of ownership
- Bright, neutral workspaces
Galvanized steel was used as a self finished material within the project. The exposed galvanized steel frame that forms the basketball court a top the building makes a defining statement.The frame and lower floors are wrapped in a stainless steel wire rope mesh – tensioned between galvanized steel elements. All the external balustrades, the external steel stair from Level 02 to 03, framing and gates within the mesh area are also galvanized as well as an exposed steel truss supporting the cantilever deck on Level 01.
Photos ©Taran Wilkhu
PUP Architects – Surrey Docks Farm
Surrey Docks Farm is a charity located on the banks of the Thames, opposite Canary Wharf. The existing building needed extensive refurbishment which was carried out by PUP Architects. As well as upgrading and expanding 250 m2 of existing facilities, the project strategically opens up the riverside with 320 m2 of new public realm, enhancing access and connectivity from the Thames Path. Key new spaces include a teaching kitchen, meeting rooms, offices, a toilet block, multi-use River Room and a glazed ‘orangery’ opening up the building to the expansive river views.
Reflecting the hybrid agricultural, educational and social function of the farm, simple robust materials are left in their natural state: galvanized steel, zinc, aluminium, concrete, pine and Douglas Fir. Resonating with the Walter Segal building elsewhere on the farm, new structures such as the orangery, toilet block, and tower floors are built with timber left exposed, creating robust and legible spaces.
Galvanizing formed a crucial part of the project’s material palette in the facades, rainwater goods and in an external staircase and balconies. It was also a central part of the projects aesthetic. The project is defined by a hybrid character merging educational, community and agricultural functions.
Photos © Simone Bossi
