Gowercroft project nominated for top architecture prize

A photography studio, which saw Gowercroft Joinery provide bespoke windows and doors, has been nominated for the prestigious 2017 RIBA Stirling Prize.

This award recognises the building that has made the greatest contribution to British architecture in the past year.

This particular nomination comes after what has been a hugely successful year for Juergen Teller’s photography studio, seeing it scoop this year’s RIBA National Award, RIBA London Award and London’s Building of the Year.

The complex, that serves as a studio, office and archive for the celebrated fashion and fine art photographer, also includes a kitchen, a top lit studio space, a library and an ensemble of ancillary rooms, including a sauna and yoga studio.

The brief was to create a “light-filled, flexible, informal and welcoming set of spaces, which would have a natural flow and sociability” and 6a architects turned to Gowercroft Joinery to provide the window and door solutions.

They had to meet the stringent insulation requirements, whilst also providing a high quality finish, colour and detailing that would blend with the minimalist concrete design.

All 45 separate glazed units included individual designs for sets of internal doors and casement windows of various sizes; ranging from large lift and slide doors to French doors and expansive multi-storey glazed internal screens that line the stairwells.

The windows and doors are made from Accoya wood and high specification triple glazing, with excellent thermal performance and security guaranteed. 

Furthermore, and with importance considering the building’s use, the specific light hues required for photography are assured, whilst their sheer semi-transparent grey external and white internal finish mirrored the subtle tones of the building fabric.

Tom Emerson, Director of 6a architects, commented: “We wanted to create a series of naturally, light filled spaces with warmth and precision in their material palette in response to Juergen Teller’s brief for a new studio.

“An open and sociable flow between all the spaces, internal or external was important. Gowercroft’s craftsmanship, rigour and flexibility was instrumental in achieving this vision and their commitment to the delivery of the project was exceptional.”

Andrew Madge, Managing Director of Gowercroft Joinery, said: “We are delighted to have been associated with this prestigious project, which showcases our ability to deliver challenging detailing whilst maintaining the highest performance standards throughout.”