Cockpit Studios retrofit: construction underway at deptford site

An architect's render of a light-filled interior with tables and open doors to a courtyard

Construction is underway for Cockpit’s transformation of their maker space in Creekside, Deptford.

The designs include a dramatic opening-up of the existing building to create public spaces at ground floor level. The proposals were approved by the London Borough of Lewisham in 2022.

Home to more than 60 makers and microbusinesses, the transformation of Cockpit’s Deptford site unlocks underused space to deliver new and better public facilities. A new café and front yard space will give Cockpit a permanent public presence on Creekside for the first time, making it more open, active, inviting, and accessible.

New education and community spaces are planned, meeting growing demand for events and practical workshops. Additionally, new, for-purpose studios, workshops and storage spaces will increase affordable provision for makers, giving them the tools to build their businesses.

Part extension and part retrofit, the design weaves both elements through the existing concrete frame structure of Cockpit’s repurposed 1960s former office building. The remodelled building and site will accommodate an additional 21 businesses and support 26 new jobs.

Working alongside architecture practice Cooke Fawcett, we are providing M&E and lighting services for the project.

 

“This will see an exciting transformation of Cockpit Deptford from a relatively self-contained organisation into a vibrant community hub on Deptford’s Creekside. Our vision is to build a thriving centre for craft and making, providing affordable studios, expert business support, local jobs, and a rich programme of workshops, exhibitions, and events. We look forward to the launch of our newly transformed site in September 2023, and the years that lie ahead where we see the careers of future makers made at Cockpit.” 

Annie Warburton CEO of Cockpit