Architectural Association

AA Bookshop

Nestled within an institution renowned for architectural culture and design innovation, this project called for a loyalty to a radical design heritage and a respect for sensitive context.

The AA is the UK’s oldest independent school of Architecture, and recognised as one of the world’s leading centres of architectural education and culture. Situated in a Grade I listed terraced townhouse on Bedford Square, the bookshop design required respect for period features and a detailed knowledge of user requirements to design a range of bespoke furniture and lighting.

A building of this age posed significant challenges, primarily in the form of inconsistent floor levels and wall lines. A detailed laser scan enabled us to achieve a fit out tolerance of 3mm for each of the 33 furniture pieces by mass-customising bespoke designed systems. Our skills with digital fabrication enabled us to successfully complete the project within a very limited budget.

Name:: AA Bookshop
Client:: Architectural Association
Date:: March 2014
Location:: London
Status:: Complete
Sector:: EducationLeisure
Expertise:: InteriorsHeritage
Team:: Alan DempseyPaul Loh
Photography:: Sue Barr
Collaborators:: Project Management: Buro 4