London Architecture events
Though it seems in London, school is now ‘out for summer’, that doesn’t mean that things have slowed down! This week there are some great exhibitions to visit on days when the weather isn’t as fine as we would hope, and some tours, talks, and workshops to let you delve right into the architecture of our city.
In this project, architects and children have created rooms to be combined to create a giant ‘Doll’s House’ for the exhibition in this South West gallery, which aims to raise funds and awareness for Shelter. This installation project, through its whimsical interpretation of the home, explores hopes and ideas in the context of domesticity.
Conceived and developed by architect Catja de Haas, this project has seen architects and children creating spaces in shoeboxes, which reveal context and influences of the maker as well as showing how diverse ideas can combine to create a wonderful finished product. Joining de Haas on this project is Lala Thorpe, whose experience and passion in delivering workshops in schools, museums and galleries is well-known and recognised.
Photo: National Trust Images / Sophia Schorr-Kon
Croydon has been recently enjoying a resurgence of interest, as many in London turn their eyes southward, both in search of home, and with an intrigued, critical eye for this post-war ‘Edge-City’.
“Often referred to as an ‘Edge City’ – a city-sized development on the outskirts of a city – this project is a riposte to Croydon’s ‘Crap Town’ reputation. Everywhere has its own unique spirit of place, and many Croydonians feel tremendous pride for their town. As it undergoes another wave of regeneration, the National Trust seeks to spark a debate about what is special and cherished about suburban places like Croydon, which are as awash with heritage, green space and beauty as anywhere else.”
The series of events scheduled for this month include walking and bus tours of the ‘concrete monsters’ as well as film screenings of original footage of the town.
This free evening event, run by the NLA, will mark the launch of their Boroughs Stream, and is an excellent opportunity to develop an insight into the growth strategies being put into effect across London.
Understanding how the boroughs will be developing in the years to come is imperative to how we see our city; these are issues and ideas which will shape how we live and work. It is vital that we are all involved and interested in the process of change and development; the growth of our city is a fascinating topic in itself. This event is the first in an exciting upcoming series which aims to support and contribute to London Authority planning, and to discuss issues.
Speakers include regeneration, development, and place-making specialists as well as planners and urban designers.
Photo: Stephen White/RA
The Royal Academy of Arts’ Summer Exhibition, now in its 248th year, is a showcase of public submissions from living artists. The show gives the public the opportunity to see emerging and established artists’ works side by side. From ephemeral sculpture and photography, to architecture and paintings; the exhibition is awash with a range of media and themes.