Assemble transforms former dairy warehouses into community hub
Historic warehouses in London repurposed into a modern community center.
1Project purpose
Assemble converted former dairy warehouses in Dagenham, London, into a multi-purpose community center for LifeLine Church and a local charity. The project aimed to consolidate scattered community activities under one roof.
2Preservation of historic warehouses
The warehouses, built under the 1919 Addison Housing Act, were renovated while preserving their historic character. Assemble chose to retain the existing structure to reduce the carbon footprint.
3Architectural details
The original steel trusses and brick arches of the warehouses were preserved and restored. Handmade bricks were used to repair damaged sections, emphasizing the industrial heritage.
4Flexible design
The community center hosts various activities during the week and serves as a 300-seat church on Sundays. The main hall includes flexible elements like a baptistery concealed beneath removable lids.
5Energy efficiency
Assemble improved the thermal and acoustic performance of the warehouses by installing breathable internal insulation, underfloor heating, and natural ventilation chimneys.
6Community impact
The project consolidated community activities in Dagenham into a single, accessible hub for residents. Preserving historic structures also contributed to the urban heritage.