• Client: Private
• Architect: Nic Howett Architect
• Photography: Damian Griffiths
• Expertise: Structures

Webb Yates Engineers were responsible for the design of a cor-ten steel-clad plywood structure for a private studio located in Oval, London. The client wanted a simple and elegant place to read and work. The studio is located at the end of a narrow garden facing both the rear of an early Victorian crescent and a secret garden.

The structure utilises laser cut plywood walls of just 50mm thickness as structural elements. The walls are formed from 2 sheets of 25mm birch plywood glued together, with internal shelving and bookcases, also plywood, providing additional vertical and lateral support. A bonded, frameless glass panel at one end of the structure contributes to the racking resistance of the plywood box and gives uninterrupted views into the owner’s garden.