This industrial-style gallery is made possible through the design efforts of architecture collective Assemble. Located in south London, the firm overhauled an old public swimming pool and transformed it into the now-open Goldsmiths Centre for Contemporary Art.
The site is absolutely ideal for the project. The double-height ceilings enable the housing of sizable installations and sculptures. Aside from exhibition spaces, the industrial-style gallery also accommodates a cafe, a curators' studio, and an event space.
With this project, Assemble aims to make a forgotten structure in south London available to the public again. During the overhaul, the architecture firm chooses to preserve some of the old features of the facility — the bath's cast-iron water tanks, for example, in order to create a strong atmospheric ambiance in the industrial-style gallery.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Industrial-style Gallery Spaces
- The trend of converting industrial spaces into art galleries provides opportunities for innovative design and repurposing of forgotten structures.
- Robust Exhibition Spaces
- The trend of utilizing double-height ceilings in galleries allows for the display of large installations, sculptures, and immersive experiences, encouraging artists to create on a grand scale.
- Preserving Architectural Ambiance
- The trend of preserving old features in renovated spaces, such as cast-iron water tanks, allows for the creation of a unique atmosphere that adds to the artistic experience.
Where This Applies
- Architecture
- Architects can explore innovative ways to repurpose industrial spaces into galleries, creating unique venues for the art community.
- Art and Culture
- Art institutions and curators can benefit from the availability of robust exhibition spaces that can accommodate large-scale artworks and innovative installations.
- Hospitality
- The trend of incorporating cafes and event spaces within industrial-style galleries presents opportunities for combining art experiences with dining and hosting events.
