- Words and images by Samuel Davies
Goal & objective
According to the United Nations and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the fashion industry is the second largest polluting industry in the world. The UK is at the forefront of this issue in Europe, consuming more units of clothing each year per capita than any other nation. In addition to this, London is one of the global fashion capitals; however, as little as six per cent of the clothing sold in the UK is actually produced here.
Strategy
The architectural strategy is to create a localised supply chain in east London to encompass the entire process of garment production.This is to support the existing theory of change and existing UK-based initiatives to improve the garment supply chain and improve consumer behaviour.
Impact
As well as having a disruptive impact on the UK’s fashion supply chain, the productive nature of the project will be accompanied by teaching and exhibition programmes to influence the public’s attitude to production and consumerism. Also, by reintroducing industry along the River Lea, the project aims to regenerate the local area.
Site location
River Lea, London Borough of Tower Hamlets, E14
Project size
195,000 sqft /18,000 sqm
Client
GLA/UAL/Burberry
