Temple Back, Bristol

Artist(s): Alex Beleschenko

Ginkgo Projects has been working with artist Alex Beleschenko on the Former South West Electricity Building at Temple Back in Bristol. This development retains the façade of the original building and adds to this the construction of two buildings; one residential and one office. Either side of this retained façade are areas of glass curtain walling providing the new entrances to the building.

The aim of the commission is to enhance the identity and architectural detailing of the façade; the area of engagement being the glass entrance points and canopies within the new elements of the building. It has been important that the work complements the heritage façade of the former South West Electricity Building, creating a sense of cohesion between the old and new architecture.

Alex Beleschenko has been working with a new technique, utilising all the surfaces of a double glazed curtain wall glazing to combine patterning and visual illusion with images and traditional painting techniques. The result is an exciting piece of work that adds a dynamic quality to the former electricity building, and eases the flow from old building to new.