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Weave Works

Part 1 Project 2015
George Allen
 University of Sheffield | UK
Weave Works, located in Hunslet, Leeds, is intended to connect the existing residential and business communities with the anticipated influx of people brought to the area as a result of HS2 in 2032. Designed to accommodate traditional fabric weaving alongside advanced 3-D carbon fibre weaving, the scheme connects with the history of the site, which was dominated by the linen industry in the 19th century.
Using the process of weaving as a conceptual starting point, the architectural proposal has been informed by metaphorical rules defining spatial arrangements, material use and routes through the building. The programmatic separation between contemporary and traditional forms of weaving has been lessened by the building’s complex internal organisation which encourages the two processes to rely upon shared spaces, thus increasing social interaction amongst the weaving community.
At a wider scale, Weave Works provides a focal point to what will soon be a highly mixed residential area. The scheme itself offers opportunities for education and employment through both the production and sale of woven materials. The threaded landscape adjacent to the building creates a place for the congregation of communities, old and new, while simultaneously strengthening the cultural identity of the area.


Tutor(s)
2015
'Weave Works'
The site sits amongst a cluster of derelict 19th century mill buildings. The urban grain is sparse, presenting the opportunity for residential development to meet increased demand following the arrival of HS2.
A public landscape consists of ‘threads’ of soft and hard landscaping which are pulled beneath the building and emerge as an ordered façade, representing woven fabric, the product of the weaving process.
The proposal adds a third side to what becomes a three sided, south facing courtyard.
The building consists of three vertical layers: the main facade, the circulation space and the activity spaces behind.
The carbon fibre weaving area with market below. Hanging tapestries are used to divide the activity spaces internally.
An existing stone archway has been adopted to form the main entrance to the scheme, at the junction between the adjacent mill building and the new proposal.
The circulation space was conceived of as the back of a piece of woven fabric. In contrast to the highly finished exterior façade, 'loose threads' are expressed, with insulation and services left on display.
Activities are distributed across a complex system of levels, allowing for visual connections and social interaction between the fabric and carbon fibre weaving processes.
The threaded landscape provides a combination of hard and soft surfaces. Beds of lavender are intended to create a multi-sensory environment for the public to enjoy.
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