This month, we’re turning the spotlight on buildings that bring people together. From repurposed sheds to ambitious, community-led developments, these projects show how architecture can create spaces that connect, inspire and support local life.
Here’s our team’s favourite community buildings that prove great design is as much about people as it is about place.
paul
East Quay
invisible studio
“This is the benchmark for a community generated project.”
“With artist studios and gallery space, the new community-funded project has enlivened a previously derelict boatyard in Watchet, North Somerset.”
“The design came out of years of dialogue between Piers Taylor and the female-led Onion Collective and is ‘a building that materialises a method’ which I think sums up this delightful and idiosyncratic project.”
“It quite rightly, won the RIBA South West building of the year in 2023 and the Onion Collective won the RIBA client of the year. I was really disappointed the regional building of the year award didn’t lead to a Stirling Prize longlisting.”
josh
Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses
fielden fowles
“Set within the heart of Brockwell Park, this project provides the charity with a flexible and welcoming space that supports workshops, events and community gatherings.”
“Its design draws on a simple agricultural language, using a sustainable material palette of timber and corrugated sheeting that gives the buildings a robust yet warm character.”
“Large openings and direct connections to the surrounding gardens mean the activity inside naturally spills outdoors, making the landscape an integral part of the learning experience.”
“The result is a peaceful haven in contrast to the busy city beyond, offering a place for people of all ages to come together, learn and enjoy nature.”
tom
Bolehills Community BMX Track
“Bolehills is a Community BMX Track, every year it is worked on and transformed by volunteers, to me and my sons it is the best Sheffield community building.”
“Former leader of the BMX club Dan Clifford describes it really well in a video that was made recently for it’s 40th year.”
“There was always this sort of community vibe that wasn’t snobby. You just wanted people to be involved….. having fun on your bike, having fun with your mates, pushing yourself and just you know being outdoors, in what is actually like I think just a really little beautiful spot.”
alan
Blue House Yard
Jan Kattein Architects
“I love how simple and cheap but transformational this building is.”
“Simple timber sheds allow an empty site to be reused as a community space and incubator for small, start up businesses.”
“Small touches help each shed to feel unique whilst still being cost effective to build [including some local volunteers].”
“And I love the bold, but simple and cheap, move of painting an existing building bright blue. No prizes for guessing how the project got its name!”
elena
Management Sciences University, Bordeaux
Lacaton & Vassal
“I really like the practice for their ‘do more with less’ ethos. They aim to maximise space, light, and comfort through clever solutions that use fewer resources and materials, while also reducing environmental impact. The result is adaptable spaces that are especially valuable in public and community settings.”
“The University building is a strong example of this ethos. Located in the heart of the city, it’s compact but still designed to create flow and encourage communal interaction.”
“They also used their well-known balcony typology. The balconies are functional as they allow fresh air and provide access for glass maintenance, but also beautiful with roses integrated as solar shading.”
jenny
Absalon, Copenhagen
arcgency
“The fun, colourful and welcoming environment of Absalon made it a real highlight of my recent trip to Copenhagen. Once an abandoned church, it’s been imaginatively transformed by Arcgency into a lively community hub, with long communal tables, bright interiors and daily activities that bring people together over food, music, art and games.”
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