By G2J Design

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Connection to Harringay Warehouse District

Formulaically taking direct inspiration from the warehouses, specifically Overbury Road. Inspired by bold repetitive roof pitches on the warehouses, we sought to pay homage to this vibrant road by inverting the pitch. Further, was the concept of a centralised corridor between interlinked domestic spaces, something highlighted by many residents on our visit. The final cue was the idea of the entrance as a reveal; warehouses are enormous spaces internally, however often concealed by tiny doors. Raising a huge sense of intrigue and curiosity. Thus we created an entrance within an entrance for our pavilion for this same sense of allure.

Proposal Outline

Visiting the site made apparent access was initially far from inspiring, drawing parallels to entrances of the warehouses themselves. Internally huge intriguing and curious spaces, concealed by tiny doors. Providing curiosity and presenting the entrance as a grand reveal. Thus we created an entrance within an entrance to provide this sense of allure. A ‘doorway’. Serving as visual obstruction to the main area behind, but also an object of curiosity, drawing passers who would not otherwise experience and engage with warehouse communities. Although small, it provides space for art installations, notice-boards, events timetables for the pavilion and general warehouse community information.

Sequentially, you enter a garden of walkways, a highly fluid space. Abundantly clear was that warehouse residents cherish shared outside spaces – street parties, communal meals, pop-up festivals, events, BBQs, general socialising – this space will serve as such. Walkways, constructed from wooden pallets and finished with wooden boards align with the site boundaries, and demonstrate our centralised corridors. This concept of a corridor between interlinking domestic spaces, was highlighted by many residents. Applied to design, this resulted in highly dynamic space which people could flow freely between. Each space within the pavilion is an extension of the next, whilst also retaining the option of privacy where necessary.

Whilst retaining open-air feelings through vertically spaced timbers, the secondary internal space allows for intimate performances, discussions and exhibitions. Also functioning as a complement to the remainder of the design and activities which take place.Possibly serving as a bar during more prominent events, or hosting specific market traders during a pop-up sale throughout the site. Set back from this is the main stage and events space, the pavilion’s focal point – the hub. This inside / outside performance and interaction space will host the main events; live music to lectures, markets to fitness classes. Positioning and arrangement on site shields it from the road and provides as much privacy as possible. Finally, adjacent, is the smallest space which serves to support. A secure enclosure providing space for admin, backstage, secure lock-up, electrical run-in and access to the pre-existing shed.

Reusing, reclaiming, recycling, rebuilding – words used in abundance during the visit. Thus our entire proposal will be available to warehouse residents following closure. Reimagined however residents see best. Primary materials of corrugated steel, standard unfinished timber and pallets, are seen readily throughout the district, both in interior and exterior spaces, reimagined in a new form. Attempting to be as conscious as possible we aim to leave no trace. Embodying community and giving back to the people who will both make this project possible, and enjoy the space in primarily our designed form, but whatever life they choose thereafter.

We were determined to create a space that encouraged the same sense of diverse and dynamic community prevalent locally. Further to inspiration from Overbury Road, each structure possesses a different pitch, symbolising how no warehouse is the same. Combining all these elements we feel we have created a space that embodies warehouse living.