The Architects’ Journal Architecture News & Buildings
In this episode, Ahn describes how he realised his ambition to use local timber from London’s trees at Lea Bridge Library Pavilion despite no sales channel existed for sourcing local timber and the need to prove its chain of custody because it had no FSC certification.
We also discuss how working with found materials requires a willingness and ability to improvise as a designer and creates new aesthetic opportunities. In the case of Lea Bridge Library Pavilion, this approach lends warmth and informality to the space. ‘You have to be ready to change your mind to suit the requirement,’ says Ahn.
Source:Jim Stephenson
Lea Bridge Library by Studio Weave
He describes sustainability as project-specific. ‘I’m very interested in where we get our materials,’ he says, explaining that timber is not always the best solution. It’s all about achieving the right balance for a given project. ‘Whatever I put out in the world has to have a purpose beyond what was initially set out,’ he says.
Visitor numbers at Lea Valley Library in Waltham Forest have jumped from 3,000 to 20,000/year since Studio Weave’s extension completed in 2021.
AJ Climate Champions is hosted by Hattie Hartman and George Morgan. To catch up on all episodes, click here.
Find Climate Champions on your favourite podcast app: subscribe via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Deezer and Podbean
About Je Ahn
AJ 40 under 40 architect Je Ahn co-founded Studio Weave in 2007. Born in South Korea, Je came to the UK at age 13. He trained at Bath, TU Delft and London Met, starting his practice while still a student.
Initially known for its innovative work with timber in a series of pavilions, Studio Weave’s portfolio now includes public realm work, community-focused public projects and 23 units of social housing over Hackney Wick station, due to start on site soon.
Studio Weave shares office space and frequently collaborates with Architecture 00.
Projects and resources mentioned in this episode
Saunders Seasoning, now Fallen and Felled
Ashwells – Reclaimed Tropical Timber
The Long Bench, Littlehampton
Credits
Climate Champions is produced in association with ACAN, the Architects’ Climate Action Network
Podcast produced and edited by Simon Aldous
Music: Edmilson do Pífano, Forró de dois Amigos. Interpretation: Felipe Tanaka e banda Balaio de Baião