Office S&M unveil plans for Newham community space

The local firm – working with operator ReSpace Projects – won a two-stage invitational competition organized by Newham Council. It will now transform a disused former social club known as the Tate Institute into a “multi-faceted” social facility.

Also shortlisted for the job were Set Space with IDK; Design booth with Adams & Sutherland Architects; A&E money; and Royal Docks Welfare Association with DPD.

Darren Mackin, Newham’s director of community wealth building, said: “The Tate Institute has served as a very important social hub for the workers and residents of Silvertown for many years. Our investment to bring this space will give the building new life and purpose.

“ReSpace is an exemplary social enterprise which will deliver on our social and community wealth-building ambitions for the building and the wider Silvertown area. I am delighted with their appointment and look forward to working with them on this innovative project.’

Co-founder of Office S&M, Hugh McEwen, said: “As a resident of Newham, I am proud to be working to restore this important community building to its former glory for the local community and to deliver on the just transition strategy, strengthening community wealth and circularity. economic principles to make the building warm, welcoming and sustainable.’

Office S&M Architects – working with JA Projects – has also submitted plans for a competition-winning £1.7m creative wellbeing and work space at Queen’s Market in nearby Upton Park.

Both projects are to be completed by next year.

The consulting team

Applicant ReSpace projects
Principal Architect and Consultant Office S&M Architects
Planning consultant NTA planning
Quantity Surveyor and Contract Administrator BWA
The main contractor Arbery properties
Structural engineer Simple works
MEP engineer and energy consultant XC02
Heritage consultant Authentic Futures
Lead designer Office S&M Architects
Demolition consultant Material index
Firefighter consultant Mu Studio
Construction regulation approver Wilkinson