Eight MA Architecture students from the University of East London came to Blackhorse Workshop to gain practical and hands-on experience in construction. Responding to a live brief from Matter Architecture, the group were asked to design and create a portable kiosk for Waltham Forest Council to be displayed at Walthamstow Market, providing information to the public about council improvements to the street.

The students had two weeks to create a transportable structure that needed to be simple, robust and stable and finished to a high quality. After a site visit to the market, the group decided the kiosk should ‘feel at home’ with the other stalls, as a site-specific piece of design. They had initial project briefings with Matter and a client meeting with Waltham Forest Council before coming to Blackhorse. Starting with an induction into the woodwork machinery, the facilities and staff enabled them to construct their design to a high standard,

‘The staff were outstanding, very helpful and knowledgeable. A great workshop to work in’

Working with plywood, they measured out and prepared the various components such as storage compartments, lightweight seating, a tabletop and handles. They then finished the final piece in a bright mustard yellow colour, to ensure the kiosk would be visible and inviting to passers-by.

It was fantastic to see the students progress and deliver such a unique project. Look out for the finished design from February 2019 at Walthamstow Market.