Highgate Artists’ Workshop

Developing in the Highgate Conservation Area

Getting this unique artists’ workshop off the ground was no mean feat. Located on a contentious site in the Highgate Conservation Area, genuine, open and ongoing stakeholder management was essential. We worked with the local community – including the Highgate Society and Highgate Neighbourhood Forum – to create a sensitive concept design using innovative, sustainable building materials. Thanks to the rigorous environmental and socially responsible strategy, we gained planning approval in summer 2020.

Designing a sustainable community building

This Artists Workshop proposal was part of a wider scheme for the site, sitting alongside other art, making and growing studios and the diverse eco-habitat of Omved Gardens. The setting was perfect for our client’s work, exploring the relationship between people, nature and food.  

Our client was heavily involved in promoting a site-wide sustainability strategy for this area. So biophilia – the innate human instinct to connect with the beauty of nature – and regenerative design principles were a part of our design concept. This meant using natural, healthy materials and designing sensitively around the surrounding landscape, with the planet in mind.

Where art and creativity meet wellbeing

This innovative, sustainable community building provides an invaluable creative space for people who might not usually have access to such a facility. The use of natural materials and lush, green surroundings inspire creativity and instil wellbeing.

Highgate Artists Studio will be home to a wide variety of artists and craftspeople, accommodating a mixture of media, such as woodwork, ceramics, painting and printmaking. The local community and wider public will join workshops and hands-on courses as part of the seasonal programme.