Poplar Works

Poplar Works is extreme refurbishment. 80 disused lock-up garages were transformed to provide fashion business space, a manufacturing unit, design, tech and education facilities and a public café and events space

This low budget beacon project made radical and sustainable use of existing resources to create an exciting new fashion centre bringing work, commerce and creativity to this stretch of East London beside the A12 Blackwall Tunnel approach road.

Existing structural elements of 90 underused and deteriorated garages were retained to provide studio and business spaces and support a new first floor constructed from cross-laminated timber. Simple low-cost materials are used to wrap the building with rubber, translucent polycarbonate and painted timber to create a street of lively businesses, along what was previously an underused backstreet. A double-height café and hub space open to the public provide not only a community hub but also a showcase for the creative activity and businesses in the new building. 

Awards & Publications

  1. RIBA Regional award Shortlisted
PP 34 Rooflight over Stairwelljpg
25 Interior of Cafejpg
Abbott road elevation
GMU big window
Abbott road long view