The Calthorpe Project
The Calthorpe Pavilion Centre and community garden near Kings Cross was a radical project by Architype in the 1980s, encouraging the participation of the local community in the building process. Architype’s first non-domestic self-build, the pavilion is a simple facility comprising of a children’s centre, community room, community kitchen, office and toilet facilities, and is still as well used today as it was when it was first handed over.
Location
London, UK
Area
Status
Completed
Year
1992 2016 2026
Client
The Calthorpe Project
In an action packed two-day event to coincide with London Festival of Architecture, a young and dynamic team of Architypers returned to The Calthorpe Project to mark the festivals theme of ‘Capital’ as well as Architype’s 30 years in practice.
Architype staff, people from the Calthorpe Community, and legendary self-builder Geoff Stow worked together to realise a vision for a timber playhouse. The team followed simplified plans, using only basic tools to erect the structure; just as the founder of self-build Walter Segal intended it.
Vision
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How we are building on 40 years of innovation to address the challenges of the future
Architype Beyond 40
Architype
What have we learned in 40 plus years of practice?
Ongoing collaboration
This was Architype's first non-domestic self-build, and a radical project that encouraged the participation of the local community in the design and construction process.
Design
The building of the playhouse is a celebration of Architype’s involved approach to design over the decades.
In true Architype style, the playhouse has been constructed from sustainable materials such as FSC Douglas Fir, finished in natural paints and utilising reclaimed materials such as a scaffolding pole for a fun fireman’s drop.
Expertise
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