In the heart of architectural innovation and cultural reconnection, Regenerative Power by Gbolade Design Studio emerges as a symbol of transformation at the 18th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia. This captivating exhibit embarks on a profound exploration of how architecture can connect time and space, using the redevelopment of the Lloyd Leon Community Centre (LLCC) in Brixton, London as its canvas. Through a compelling narrative that delves into history, unites contemporary communities, and ignites inspiration for future generations, Regenerative Power transcends traditional boundaries.

The exhibit is part of The Laboratory of the Future, a curation by Lesley Lokko that spotlights some of the most influential African and African Diaspora practitioners in contemporary architecture. Nestled within the Dangerous Liasion section of the architecture festival, hosted at the Arsenale complex, Gbolade Design Studio represents one of the three visionary “experimental” practices handpicked by Lokko. These practices share a common mission: to redefine our understanding of decolonising knowledge and production. In an exclusive interview with STIR, the co-founding directors of Gbolade Design Studio, Tara Gbolade and Lanre Gbolade, open up about the inner workings of their groundbreaking installation, Regenerative Power and its significance within the context of this year’s Venice Architecture Biennale 2023.

"Our installation is entitled Regenerative Power, begins Tara. "The reason for this name is deeply rooted in our experience with the Lloyd Leon Community Centre (LLCC) project in Brixton, London. We were commissioned by Lambeth Council for the redevelopment of this community centre alongside a collaborative team including Urban Symbiotic and Green Tea Architects. In the process, we were profoundly inspired by the people we encountered at the Dominoe’s Club and the Soup Kitchen. They uplifted us every time we interacted with them, teaching us the game of dominoes, sharing meals, and instilling a sense of empowerment. This immersive installation is our tribute to their community".

Lanre further elaborates on the refinement in their architectural practice. "We wanted to move away from the conventional approach of assessing a site solely in terms of physical constraints, massing, or context. Our perspective puts people, place, and community at the forefront of our design process. By understanding the community first, the physical structure of our architecture naturally emerges," he says.

Within their design philosophy, the term "regenerative" holds significance beyond its architectural context, as Tara emphasises, their inspiration is deeply rooted in the broader themes of decolonisation and decarbonisation. Recognising the empowerment that stems from comprehending the history and culture of the communities they collaborate with, Tara states that this understanding profoundly influences their work. Their latest project which revolved around a West Indian community deeply tied to West Africa’s history dating back to pre-colonial times, stands as a vivid illustration of their approach. In their interactions with these communities, it wasn’t merely a one-sided exchange of strength and knowledge, as Lanre elaborates. They were committed to a reciprocal empowerment process through their design journey. By actively engaging with the Brixton Soup Kitchen and the Dominoe’s Club, they delved into the collective stories, joys, and challenges that shaped these communities.

The installation features two intricately woven components, one is an exploration of the building’s deconstructed elements and the other is a representation of their design methodology. Their approach employs a systems map strategy, connecting diverse elements, relationships and notes. Inside the installation, Nsibidi Ideograms, an ancient form of graphic communication originating from West Africa in the fifth century, well before colonisation are featured. Tara and Lanre passionately elaborate on the interconnectedness of their design, starting with the 'place.' The Lloyd Leon Community Centre in Brixton faces challenges including heavy traffic and poor air quality. Understanding that London records over 9000 annual deaths due to poor air quality alone, their design integrates innovative features such as moss walls to purify the air.

The community aspect is another crucial dimension. The Dominoe’s Club and the Brixton Soup Kitchen have become integral parts of LLCC, fostering a sense of togetherness and empowerment among their diverse members. Domino’s in particular, serves as a unifying force, transcending backgrounds and bringing people together. To delve deeper into the community’s roots, the Gbolade Design Studio has established connections with vital organisations such as the black cultural archives and the Africa Centre. These institutions help preserve and share the rich history and heritage of the black community in the United Kingdom.

Sound plays a vital role in the narrative of the installation. The architects understand the vibrant atmosphere of the Dominoe’s Club, where the shuffle of dominoes is a powerful symbol of energy and unity. To maintain this lively spirit while being considerate to the neighbouring community, materials like cork are strategically used to amplify the dominoes’ sounds and reduce impact noise.

In the broader context of decarbonisation, the studio’s choice of materials reflects their commitment to innovation and sustainability. They are exploring regenerative materials that emphasise reuse and circular economies. From acoustic wall panels made from recycled materials to moss walls and recycled timber elements, every choice aligns with the goal of minimising the environmental impact.

Regenerative Power by Gbolade Design Studio encapsulates a profound shift in architectural thinking where community and history take precedence over traditional site-centric approaches. Tara and Lanre are not merely architects; they are storytellers, weaving narratives of empowerment and transformation through their designs. It is a reminder that architecture can be a force for positive change, embodying the regenerative power of design.

STIR heralds Venice Architecture Biennale 2023’s zealous crusade for an inclusive, equitable and sustainable future! Explore 'The Laboratory of the Future' and the expositions hosted across various national pavilions—Ireland, Ukraine, Canada, Denmark and more—with our exclusive interviews, visits, and analyses.