aberrant architecture redesigns rosemary works school

aberrant architecture has completed the interior redesign of rosemary works school in hackney, east london. as part of a major investment of the educational institution’s infrastructure, the practice worked alongside teachers, parents and pupils to develop a vibrant and coherent environment for the building’s occupants.

the practice worked alongside teachers, parents and pupils to develop a coherent environment
all images © simon kennedy, courtesy of aberrant architecture

rather than juxtaposing contrasting design elements, aberrant architecture’s scheme pursues a policy of continuity by borrowing features from the building’s past as a base to work from. internal walls are divided into specified sections, allowing different portions to be used in for a range of activities.

rather than juxtaposing contrasting design elements, the scheme pursues a policy of continuity

reveals and nooks such as window seats are inserted at specific points, creating private zones for intimate areas of study as well as forming centerpiece features with a decorative focus. offering flexibility for the future, major aspects of the design have been implemented as a modular kit of parts enabling the further expansion and adaptation of the school.

major aspects of the design have been implemented as a modular kit of parts – enabling future expansion

‘our concept pursues a policy of continuity, borrowing features from the building’s past that are appropriate for the school’s present needs‘, explained david chambers, co-founder of aberrant architecture. ‘so, our first task was to unpick the building’s history, understanding its original late-edwardian design principles and features, as well as the subsequent ad-hoc additions added to the interiors over the succeeding years.’

reveals and nooks, such as window seats, are inserted at specific points

kevin haley – the firm’s other co-founder – adds: ‘we also drew upon the school’s unique location on the regent’s canal. for instance, a fleet of mobile ‘canal barge’ structures occupy multiple spaces around the school. each barge contains interactive elements and will be able to support a wide variety of different learning activities.’

toilets throughout the design are vibrant and brightly colored