Residential ArchitectureRenovation ProjectsEleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened / Chris Dyson Architects

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened / Chris Dyson Architects

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects

Architects: Chris Dyson Architects
Project: Eleven Spitalfields Gallery
Location: London, United Kingdom
Year 2017
Photographs: Peter Landers

Eleven Spitalfields is located to the rear of the Dyson House and Gallery project, which is the residence of Chris Dyson and his wife, Sarah. This structure was originally built in 1840, and consisted of the king trusses, supporting piers and large lantern rooflight we see at ground floor level today. To make the space habitable, it was previously refurbished by Chris Dyson, and for many years became home to Chris Dyson Architects.

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 1

With the continued growth of a successful practice, Chris Dyson’s Architects began to outgrow the studio space in the rear garden. In 2014 permission was sought and granted for the excavation of the area below the studio to create an additional level to this rear garden space. In extending downwards below garden level, one of the main challenges was to provide sufficient light into the depths of the new basement to create a pleasant work environment that was bright and airy.

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 2

To achieve the desired levels of light in the new basement floor, an open void was formed in the ground floor level directly below, and following the shape of, the original lantern above. A combination of mild steel and glass was used to form the balustrade around this. This was accompanied with a high floor to ceiling space, large glazed doors facing onto the newly created courtyard and a choice of materials which were integral to creating the desired light filled space. Chris Dyson wished to use the structure as a point of interest so rather than conceal behind finishes, elements of the structure were worked into the overall aesthetic of the new basement level. This includes an exposed concrete ceiling which was cast on Douglas Fir boards, resulting in a dramatic textured ceiling, a homage to the old timber boards of the studio. Bright white terrazzo flooring helps bounce light around the space while a folded metal stairs with a mild steel balustrade add to the drama of the space.

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 3

The flexible nature of the space allows it to be used as a gallery, or as a studio/office space, adding to the overall quality of the project.

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 4

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 5

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 6

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 7

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 8

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 9

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 10

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 11

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 12

Eleven Spitalfields Gallery Re-Opened, Chris Dyson Architects 13

Subscribe to our newsletter

La Ruina Habitada by Jesus Castillo Oli

Project: La Ruina Habitada Architect: Jesús Castillo Olí Location: Porquera de los Infantes, Valdivia, Spain Photographs: Ángel Baltanas La Ruina Habitada is located in the town of Porquera...

Studiomama Completes Renovation of Apartments in 1720s House in Stockholm’s Old Town

Studiomama have created two stunning loft apartments in Stockholm’s medieval old town Gamla Stan. The 200sqm apartments started as derelict office space on the...

Richmond Residence – The Unique 80s Style Warehouse of an Art and Design Lover

Richmond Residence was designed by We Are Huntly, an interior design studio based in Melbourne. With an appreciation for fine art and quality, We Are...

A Former Cowshed Transformed into a Comfortable House

This former cowshed has been transformed into a comfortable house, mainly used as a second home.

Slim House in London by alma-nac

alma-nac managed to construct the Slim House, on budget and within these tight constraints. The characteristic sloped roof greatly reduces the cost of construction, with staggered rooflights providing views out while ensuring light penetrates to the centre of the property.

Recommended Stories