WonKy

the radiant walls of alexandra road

This article investigates the highly innovative and unusual district heating and hot water system of the Alexandra Road estate in North-West London, including the concrete party walls that radiate heat. The research included input from and discussion with the original designers: Neave Brown and Max Fordham, and also residents of the estate.

The analysis informs a wider discussion of sustainable design but also touches on how communities are consulted on changes to the environment of their homes. It also provides an historical insight into the shift in attitude of local government to environmental design, in this case Camden Council, from the highly imaginative (some would say reckless) approach of the post-war, pre-Thatcher era to the present day culture of risk aversion coupled with a desire to deliver on environmental promises.

One below the queen  

Lefkos Kyriacou was a resident on The Alexandra and Ainsworth Estate (commonly known as Rowley Way) for many years and was involved with a documentary film made on the estate.

Residents made their own film exploring the ideas behind the design of the estate and in the process interviewed neighbours, Neave Brown (the original architect) and others. An intergenerational group of residents worked with an arts and educational charity to decide on themes and questions to explore. Throughout the production the residents learnt practical film making skills, conducted interviews and operated the camera and sound.

Lefkos was interviewed for the film and provided a short estate history and artwork for the DVD sleeve.