residence
Commonbond Architects, 2020
1A Bendmore Avenue, SE2 0EY
Visit our self-built hempcrete studio in the garden. Built by architects Kate & Graham of Commonbond Architects. This is is an experimental project with a focus on sustainability using low-embodied-carbon materials and providing a connection to nature. Hidden away the studio provides a place of calm refuge and offers alternative ways of building using environmentally friendly materials.
Woolwich Arsenal
Abbey Wood
180
Unfortunately, there are 3 steps down into the garden, and 4 steps down into the studio - there is unfortunately no step free access.
We ask that visitors remove their shoes, there will be seating available in the garden and inside the studio to assist with this.
The project was conceived as an experimental self-build studio. Designed as a way to explore the potential of using hempcrete as a breathable biocircular building material; The intention was to create a garden studio that wasn’t simply a lightweight shed - rather something which felt permanent and embedded within the garden. It was designed to be filled with light and offer connection with the garden. A hidden away working space from which to enjoy the natural world and visiting wildlife.
As a truly self-build project, the cost of the works was vastly minimised by Kate & Graham (the architects) undertaking all of the works themselves. Constructed over a two year period, the pair self-built at the weekends, and took on all aspects of the project: from the structural timber-framing, the mixing and placement of hempcrete, construction of timber window frames, joinery, plumbing, lime rendering and roofing. What began as an experiment, and a way to save money, turned into a labour of love.
The design is very particular, responding to the garden views and orientation, the potentials of working with cast hempcrete and the idiosyncrancies of the designers. It is filled with small moments of craft and consideration, whilst having an overall coherence and contemplative character. The positioning of windows allows light to rake across the textured clay painted walls, and the water from the pond is reflected on the exposed beams of the overhanging roof. Whilst only a small space, its layering and connection to the garden make it feel much bigger than the sum of its parts.
The project is now the studio office (and snug) of their practice: Commonbond Architects, a practice which seeks to make architecture which is naturally beautiful.