A new mixed-use development in London's historic Spitalfields neighborhood is bringing traditional craft into modern office spaces. The Norton Folgate project, spanning 330,000 square feet, integrates bespoke pieces from local artisans. This design choice honors the area's rich history as a hub for craftspeople, particularly textile workers, dating back to the 17th century.
Key Takeaways
- Norton Folgate development features bespoke craftwork in office interiors.
- Design celebrates Spitalfields' historical connection to artisans and textile industry.
- Universal Design Studio commissioned various makers for unique elements.
- Custom woven curtains, oak joinery, and enamel tables are central features.
- Project emphasizes longevity, materiality, and handcrafted detail.
Celebrating Spitalfields' Creative Past
The Norton Folgate site comprises six buildings, with Universal Design Studio curating the interiors for three key structures: 16 Blossom Street, Nicholls & Clarke, and 15 Norton Folgate. These buildings, dating from the Georgian and Victorian eras, stand on the edge of Spitalfields. This district has long been a magnet for skilled makers.
Since the 1600s, Spitalfields has been a significant center for the textile industry. French Huguenot weavers, fleeing religious persecution, settled there, establishing a vibrant silk-weaving tradition. The design studio aimed to reflect this heritage by incorporating contemporary craft into its vision.
"At the heart of this project was a commitment to craft, storytelling, and the art of making," Universal Design Studio stated. "By integrating skilled makers early in the process, we ensured artistry, materiality, and narrative became intrinsic to the outcome."
Historical Fact
Spitalfields became a major hub for silk weaving in the 17th century after Huguenot refugees from France brought their expertise to London, profoundly influencing the local craft scene.
Bespoke Creations for Modern Workspaces
The project highlights several unique commissions. South London-based textile artist Lara Pain created custom woven curtains for 15 Norton Folgate. These curtains feature a subtle checkered pattern. They can be drawn along ceiling tracks, offering privacy for different seating areas within the office environment. This particular detail pays homage to the historical Huguenot weavers.
Another significant element is the red oak joinery found throughout the building. Berkshire-based timber specialist Benchmark fabricated these pieces. Universal Design Studio designed them with a focus on durability and sustainability. The timber was specified in consistent thicknesses, allowing for easy disassembly and reuse. This approach minimizes waste and promotes a longer lifespan for the materials.
Thoughtful Material Choices
The studio emphasized the careful selection of materials. Wherever possible, solid timber was used. It received an oil finish and was assembled with minimal adhesives. Analogue fixings were preferred over more complex methods. This choice underscores a commitment to traditional craftsmanship and environmental responsibility.
Design Philosophy
The design team focused on creating spaces that feel both contemporary and deeply connected to their historical context. They sought to infuse the offices with a sense of place and authenticity through handcrafted elements.
Artistry in Every Detail
The Nicholls & Clarke building features a striking meeting table produced by British enamelling company AJ Wells. Universal Design Studio conceived the table, which consists of amorphous blocks of peachy-orange enamel. These blocks appear as if they have been compressed together, creating a distinctive visual effect.
The collaboration with AJ Wells allowed the design team to explore the capabilities of enamel. "By spending time in [AJ Wells'] factory, we gained a deeper understanding of pigmenting and shaping," the studio explained. This collaboration ensured the table's design, including its radii and color palette, aligned perfectly with the enamelling process.
For the four-floor 16 Blossom Street building, London-based furniture designer Lewis Kemmenoe crafted large kitchen tables. Each table measures 4.7 meters long. They are made from solid elm wood. Kemmenoe inlaid these tables with hand-cut patches of walnut, ash, and mahogany veneer. These substantial tables are intended to foster a sense of community and shared moments among employees.
- Lara Pain: Bespoke woven curtains for 15 Norton Folgate.
- Benchmark: Red oak joinery for longevity and reuse.
- AJ Wells: Amorphous enamel meeting table for Nicholls & Clarke.
- Lewis Kemmenoe: 4.7-meter solid elm kitchen tables for 16 Blossom Street.
Recognized for Interior Design Excellence
The Norton Folgate development has received significant attention in the design community. It is currently shortlisted in the large workplace interior category of this year's Dezeen Awards. This recognition highlights the project's innovative approach to office design and its successful integration of craft and history.
Other projects contending in the same category include a mass-timber office in Helsinki designed for a forestry company and a co-working space in Melbourne inspired by ancient Roman forums. The competition underscores the diverse and forward-thinking trends shaping contemporary workplace interiors globally. The photography for the Norton Folgate project was captured by Felix Speller.
The Norton Folgate development stands as a testament to how modern workspaces can draw inspiration from their historical surroundings. It shows that thoughtful design, combined with skilled craftsmanship, can create environments that are both functional and deeply resonant with local heritage.