Wilkinson King Architects was formed in 1997 by Chantal Wilkinson
and Julian King. The partnership was created to practice imaginative and contemporary
architecture through innovative design and an informed use of structure and
materials.
Wilkinson King Architects is a design based practice that seeks to maximise
each opportunity to build, and to develop a portfolio of work covering a broad
range of project types. This now includes work for schools, business, arts
organisations, local authorities and private clients.
Excellent and progressive architecture can only be achieved when the architect
and client engage in a dialogue, which establishes an atmosphere of collaboration
and common purpose. The theoretical ideas and philosophy that Wilkinson King
apply to all projects can be briefly summarised as follows:
Programme, conflict and connections
Our approach to architecture is always conceptual and begins with the understanding
of the harmonies and conflicts within the brief, before they become entwined
within the architectural solution. We live within a world where chaos, uncertainty
and complexity are routine.
The constant evolution and conflict within artistic, political and economic
programmes represent the truest manifestation of contemporary culture. Linking,
binding and juxtaposing these programmes is a continuous and evolving thread
to our work.
Process and context
We are interested in the physical context of a project and the forces that
influence it. In particular we are interested in the way spaces exist, fragment
and dislocate over time, and the way they are used, and perceived to be used,
within a changing cultural context. Special attention is always given to the
placing of the project within the city and the creation of opportunities to
assist with urban regeneration.
Research and synthesis
Wilkinson King seek to maintain a broad base of architectural projects to
create an on going programme of "research" across different building
types. Our intention is to learn from and synthesise these projects into an
architecture which is sensitive and responsive to current issues effecting
the built environment and look to create the special out of the ordinary.
Material and the process of construction
The architectural statement is strengthened by its manifestation as built
form. This can only be achieved through the understanding of the process of
building and the cultural and economic forces that govern it. The connection
between the material, the process of construction and the architectural ‘idea’
is fundamental to our work.
Built Form
Wilkinson King are interested in finding a form that responds to and then
transcends the brief, to create an architectural simplicity concerned with
spatial experience. Our projects are often about extending the limits of the
built enclosure to ‘take in’ external space. This can be vertical
as well as horizontal. Connections are made across all planes and to the sky.
The use of natural light is an important element of our work allowing spaces
to be carefully animated and bright. This gives the work a tonal and sculptural
quality we enjoy. The use of glass is often integral to achieving this.
Energy
The use of natural light through highly sophisticated glazing allows our projects
to require the minimum of artificial light. Conservation of energy is achieved
through design, building orientation and the careful balance between glazing
and highly insulated elements.
Wilkinson King have researched many areas of energy efficiency including solar
power, heat sink, heat exchange and zero energy solutions.
Competitions
Wilkinson King is actively committed to the development of architectural ideas
as an essential part of their work through the medium of competitions.
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