Garden Studio by ByOthers – Innovative Sustainable Studio in South London

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Peckham, South London, the Garden Studio by ByOthers represents a bold experiment in sustainable, hands-on architecture. Completed in 2022, this 20 m² studio doubles as both a workspace and a testing ground for the practice’s experimental design ethos. ByOthers designed and hand-built the studio themselves, embodying their philosophy of “doing as much as discussing,” creating a functional yet playful environment that challenges conventional construction methods.

Site and Design Context
Situated at the rear of a terraced property, the Garden Studio is only accessible through the main house. The narrow passageway necessitated transporting all construction materials by hand, emphasizing the studio’s intimate and handcrafted approach. The compact building is composed of three tapering blocks, stepping across the site to form a dynamic, undulating roofline. Each block houses a distinct function—work, meetings, and utilities—while the stepped roofline is celebrated internally as an expressive architectural feature.

Sustainable Construction and Material Innovation
ByOthers took a concrete-free approach for the Garden Studio. Deep screw-pile foundations support the structure, avoiding traditional concrete strip foundations and minimizing environmental impact. A lightweight timber frame, set atop a timber raft, forms the structural basis of the studio. Externally, custom corten steel panels clad the building, with each uniquely measured panel corresponding to the angular roofline. A geometric laser-cut code of triangles and lines on each panel ensures precision placement while showcasing the construction method as a key aesthetic feature.

Inside, the experimental approach continues. ByOthers used clay plaster and a natural vegetable-based timber oil for finishes, complementing the soft textures of timber throughout. A bespoke kitchen and bathroom pod, crafted from iridescent dipped steel, contrasts with the muted warmth of timber, reflecting light and creating visual interest. The studio is heavily insulated with sheep’s wool, ensuring a comfortable interior climate year-round, regardless of seasonal extremes.

Connection to Nature
A large glass pivot door opens the studio onto an alfresco seating area, seamlessly connecting the interior with the verdant garden. Planters integrated into the stepped side elevation visually anchor the studio into the site, creating a striking contrast between the rust-colored corten panels and the lush greenery. This integration fosters a dialogue between architecture and landscape, enhancing the overall sense of place and sustainability.

 The Garden Studio by ByOthers is a pioneering example of small-scale, sustainable architecture. It combines hands-on construction, material experimentation, and careful integration into its garden context. Designed to be both functional and inspirational, it embodies an ethos of environmental sensitivity, craftsmanship, and innovative design, making it a standout project in London’s architectural landscape.

All the photographs are works of Lorenzo Zandri