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The Loom, Whitechapel

Elegantly organised and well resolved

The Loom, Whitechapel by Duggan Morris Architects.
The Loom, Whitechapel by Duggan Morris Architects. Credit: Jack Hobhouse

Duggan Morris Architects for Helical 

Contract value: £9.5m

GIA: 10,219m²

Originally used for wool storage, this building is part of the emerging Goodman’s Fields masterplan for a new creative quarter. The scheme provides a range of work spaces and seeks to reveal the building’s history while introducing carefully crafted interventions. 

A new, generous, westerly entrance makes a connection with Goodman’s Fields and, through its metal screen, to history in its references to a loom. Here are the office reception and a new public café, which provides greater public permeability. 

 
  • The Loom, Whitechapel by Duggan Morris Architects.
    The Loom, Whitechapel by Duggan Morris Architects. Credit: Jack Hobhouse
  • The Loom, Whitechapel by Duggan Morris Architects.
    The Loom, Whitechapel by Duggan Morris Architects. Credit: Jack Hobhouse
  • The Loom, Whitechapel by Duggan Morris Architects.
    The Loom, Whitechapel by Duggan Morris Architects. Credit: Jack Hobhouse
  • The Loom, Whitechapel by Duggan Morris Architects.
    The Loom, Whitechapel by Duggan Morris Architects. Credit: Jack Hobhouse
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An atrium lights both the entrance and the circulation of the upper floors. Typical floors have a clear and simple layout with beautifully executed detailing with well considered decisions about what to keep and remove. 

The project was carried out while significant areas of the building remained in occupation and it now delivers an attractive work space; elegantly organised and well resolved in relation to items such as bicycles and refuse. It also celebrates the building’s history in a meaningful way.


See the other winners of the RIBA Regional Awards 2017 - London

See the other winners of the RIBA Regional Awards 2017 - London/Commercial

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