to transform The Arc ’ s inside spaces in a way that transports visitors as they step inside : from the streets of Shoreditch , to a sci-fi-inspired , installation-filled space . In stark yet harmonious contrast to the building ’ s rich , exterior brickwork , and dark windowpanes : their interior designs are light , bright , and futuristic .
Stephen Crawley , Co-Founder at Bowler James Brindley explains , “ With The Arc , we were inspired by the simple , yet unique geometric shapes that one would envisage on the set of a Star Wars film in contrast to the earthy organic textures of an industrial building : inspired by the imagination by Head of UK at Ghelamco , Marie-Julie Gheysens .”
Stephen continues , “ The communal areas of the mixed-use building have a vibrant feel , filled with an otherworldly light . This is in beautiful juxtaposition with the calm , sanctuary of the residential spaces above , that have been created as a quiet haven away from the buzz of the productive office space and active health and wellbeing areas in the storeys below .”
GEOMETRY IN SPACE
Entering the building , the eye is drawn upwards by the double-height ceilings , large brick columns and a canopy of bronze arcs that frame the reception space . A distinctive part of the building ’ s design DNA , the installation earned the development its name : The Arc . Seeming weightless , the metal arcs are in fact heavy , self-supporting structures , each anchored from either the floor or the ceiling , but appearing as if they are floating . The positioning of the pillars and the bronze arcs , create a dynamic rhythm , leading towards the lifts at the back , where the ceiling height graduates down in size , so that visitors can feel the building evolve as they move through it .
Travelling in the lifts , up to the 7th floor - known as ‘ The 7th Heaven ’ - the space transitions into a wider corridor that has been carefully designed to reflect the atmosphere of a set from a science fiction film . Soft-edged , square lozenge panels on the ceiling are backlit , drawing attention to their pleasing and simple pattern , and giving a futuristic glow to a space that does not directly receive natural light . Ribbed walls and padded doors add texture and tactility to the corridor , before leading through to the amenities area via an entranceway with dramatic , asymmetric , sloping walls .
‘ The 7th Heaven ’ amenities space is centred around an elliptical installation , inspired by the work of renowned Star Wars set designer , John Barry . Light sheets of metal that are spray-finished in a tranquil offwhite , are arranged in circular formation , with thin brass supports throughout . The installation is functional as well as decorative , with graduating spaces between the slats , to create bookshelves and openings for plants to sit .
A SENSE OF PLACE AND OUTSIDE INSIDE
Bowler James Brindley have taken care to create a strong sense of place throughout The Arc , as with all projects they work on .