Witherford Watson Mann in Rome

Witherford Watson Mann is the last of the UK practices to exhibit in the series "London-Rome: Work in Process", following the lectures and shows of AOC and Carmody Groarke. With these three exhibitions, we have sought to emphasise the very diverse methods and approaches these practices take in producing their work, reflective of the new dynamic scene in British contemporary architecture.

Amnesty International UK, Shoreditch, London: interior; drawing
Stephen Witherford, Christopher Watson and William Mann set up their practice in 2001, but the architect’s collaboration had started informally a few years previously following long walks and the study of both the history and everyday life in the outskirts of London. Intrinsic to the practice is an interest in the relationship between city and landscape and the inter-dependence of public buildings, collective space and daily activity combined with a commitment to explore how architecture can support social engagement. All three architects teach and write extensively.

“We never lose sight of the fact that, for our clients and for society as a whole, architecture is a means, not an end….At a wider social level, we look at how the character and spatial structure of places “suggests behaviour”, drawing on direct observation and concrete experience to make places that support communication and sociability.”

Images from above:
Whitechapel Art Gallery, London: exterior view from the rear. Photo © David Grandorge
Amnesty International UK, Shoreditch, London: street view. Photo © Helene Binet
Whitechapel Art Gallery, London: drawing. Photo © Roobrecht en Daem/ Witherford Watson Mann Architects
Bankside, Tate. Images © Witherford Watson Mann Architects

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