BOOKSWAY SOCIAL HUB “WORLD CLASS LIVING ROOM” - AN IMMERSIVE COMMUNITY CENTRE"
by Monica Basta
max 200 words With the focus on the community of Limehouse, notions of a social condenser became a must. Investigations of multi-use spaces and narrative evolved into an effective proposal, exploring the detail of orthographic drawings and the cultural value embedded in the construction design. Creating public accessibility to books, education, art and social gatherings that bridges towards a natural gathering space for marginalised individuals and book admirers in the community of Limehouse. As an instinctive organisation created to feel like a world class living room. These experiments and drawings manifested by reconstruction, adaptation, pleasure and satisfaction through the use of the unusual but charismatic architecture. The identities of the clients have informed the programme and social intention, manifesting in mixed-use spaces including a library, exhibition, reading area, digital space, cafe and an indoor garden. The site location on the River Thames has not only brought a new architectural perspective to the Limehouse area, but has also encouraged a connection between architecture and nature in terms of building on top of the river, exposure from passing boats and residents nearby. An invitation for a wider community.
