It leads to testing of the value parameters each of these elements is being measured against.
THE BRYDEN WOOD PERSPECTIVE: PAUL O'NEILL.When embarking on the project to reimagine and develop the building into Great Western Studios, we knew ‘the constraints of the build would be its making,’ says Bryden Wood Board Director, Architecture,.
The aim was to create a great building that would respond to its context/environment and that is certainly what Bryden Wood have achieved.The initial challenges posed by the building’s proximity to the Westway and Grand Union canal, as well as the limited site space for construction, have birthed a space of both aesthetic and functional dynamic, equally capable of fulfilling its practical goal of providing creative office spaces to West London creative businesses..According to O’Neill, the biggest challenge of the project was the building of phase 2 over the fully occupied, existing (phase 1) building.
He says that whilst knowing the building would be in use by creative industries did give a sense of freedom regarding the design, ‘it was clear that the building needed to deliver value to ensure we created affordable workspaces.’ These, he notes, are still in shortage in West London.‘It’s stylish yet affordable,’ he says of GWS, ‘and a perfect contrast to the generic, co-working businesses which have established themselves over the past five or so years.’ The ground floor studios are ideal for startups, whilst an upper-story, canal-side unit makes an excellent workspace for an office of 20 plus.. O’Neill loves the diverse collection of creatives and businesses the building has attracted and says he’s ‘glad it has provided GWS and its tenants with a safe, welcoming, happy environment which is conducive to hard, serious and creative business.’ From an architectural perspective, his favourite thing about the building is the gentle curve alongside the canal side elevation.
‘Look again at sites/buildings that may not seem the best option,’ he urges developers who may be considering taking on similar projects.
‘ And let the architects do their work.’In a space with so many vibrant creative businesses, I wonder about collaboration opportunities.
‘Yes, we encourage people to come to the socials to network and mingle.We throw two big parties per year in the atrium or the courtyard,’ says Kristi, ‘or sometimes we’ll just book a table in the local pub or our cafe.’ And it’s not just socials and yoga on offer, the management team are also looking to offer business help and guidance to the residents, ‘We’ve got a free talk coming up next week by a business coach, which will be great for the startups.
We’re also actively trying to encourage skill sharing.’.Great Western Studios really is the epitome of what a modern workspace should deliver to its occupants, from its light-filled, five-storey central atrium and chic industrial design, all the way through to its sense of community and focus on the wellness of the hard-working people within.