5 young UK architects adapting to their environment

A Phaidon Atlas Focus on a group of projects that use local features to develop a subtle, contemporary language

A few weeks back we took a look at the best young architects operating in America. Today the editors of our online architectural website The Phaidon Atlas  focus on the best young architectural minds at work in the UK. It's probably safe to say that small commissions are often the first projects for young UK firms. Whether designing for friends, families or for themselves, a compact size allows for a great degree of experimentation and detailed refinement.

A unifying feature in the work of the young firms highlighted in the choice below is a strong emphasis on adapting to the surroundings in which their buildings sit. Yet rather than contrasting with or emulating the local built environment, these projects reflect a process that actively rethinks local features to develop a subtle, contemporary language. And by so doing, each in their own way, is a worthy choice for inclusion.

Tree House, 6A Architects (above) Rather than moving, the wheelchair reliant owner of this Victorian terrace commissioned a ground floor extension. The timber-clad curving volume adapts to the garden’s existing vegetation. Read more about it in the Atlas.

 

The Lookout
The Lookout

The Lookout, Processcraft Part of a series of projects selected for a national park and designed on a very limited budget, this one-room structure reflects the landscape, with mirrors acting as camouflage. Read more about it in the Atlas.

 

Herringbone House
Herringbone House

Herringbone House, Chanchan & Eayrs The gable ended roof and exterior brickwork are inspired by the vernacular of Victorian terrace houses. The house integrates contemporary features such as floor-to-ceiling windows, courtyards and a steel structure. Read more about it in the Atlas.

 

Jerwood Gallery
Jerwood Gallery

Jerwood Gallery, Hat Projects Located in the seaside town of Hastings, Jerwood Gallery sits between fishing docks and tourist shops. Its hand-glazed ceramic tiles blend the dark exterior with the surrounding buildings while the gallery spaces frame expansive views. Read more about it in the Atlas.

 

Theatre on the Fly
Theatre on the Fly

Theatre on the Fly, Assemble A temporary performance space for the Chichester Festival Theatre, it adapts to accommodate both interior and exterior settings. Volunteers assembled the building, whose shape is inspired by barn structures. Read more about it in the Atlas