Knowle West Media Centre

White Design's Story

building

The Architect’s perspective

Knowle West Media Centre’s old home - a 1950s modular concrete clad former doctors’ surgery - could not have been more different from its new replacement - a straw clad, light-filled, double-height space with elegant, protruding timber beams. But like so much of the story behind this extraordinary project, there is a hidden layer of connection with the present. Once the old building was demolished, all the materials were carefully recorded and re-used wherever practical in the construction of the new building. The old foundations and earth were re-used in the site preparation while specific items such as radiators were recycled.

A strong, sustainability agenda, endorsed enthusiastically by client and architect, drove the design and construction of the new media centre. This unique approach involved a core group of local young people, who contributed to formulating the brief, interviewing potential architects and contractors and had regular contact throughout the build with all professionals involved.

For the full article including contacts and quotes click below

pdf file White Design's Story
 

For a list of suppliers of environmental products
click below

pdf file List of Suppliers
 

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Archimedia

archimedia core group

Archimedia was the project that involved the community in planning a new home for KWMC.

A group of young people aged 11 to 21, from Knowle West were involved in every step of the construction process, from selecting the architects to helping create the design brief.

They worked with fundraisers, design professionals, artists and engineers to ensure the creation of a building that will facilitate the social, cultural and economic development of the community and reflect their wishes and aspirations.

Follow the building process:

February 2007 (article available shortly)
March 2007 (article available shortly)
April 2007 (article available shortly)
June 2007 (article available shortly)

For more information contact:
sandraNOSPAM@kwmc.org.uk

©2008 Knowle West Media Centre