The manufacturing site of the first London bus in E17 has been converted to celebrate London’s maker culture in SIDESHOW, an installation with interactive, family friendly elements opening mid-August. The project was undertaken by U+I and Blackhorse Workshop, the latter a ‘pioneer in the maker-space movement’ which started supporting the regeneration of the Blackhorse Road Area in 2014.

The installation of a giant marble run is central to the exhibition, and was created by Blackhorse Workshop alongside young architectural practice Ehk! using components of the original London Routemaster buses which were historically developed and manufactured in the space. This fascinating marble run incorporates disused bus parts as well as over 200 steel ball bearings, with the piece celebrating the history of the 3-acre industrial site, which is earmarked by U+I for development next year. Their plans are to work on a new mixed-use development, providing 337 new homes and workspaces for small businesses, as well as building on the current community-focused regeneration of the area.  

Alongside this interactive piece there will be regular making workshops throughout the summer, changing art exhibitions, a pop-up coffee house for daytime visitors, and a bar serving on Thursday and Friday evenings.

Harriet Warden, Creative Director of Blackhorse Workshop said:

“It’s been a fantastic opportunity for the Workshop to design and build such a playful structure that demonstrates the huge importance of making to the area. We’re also very pleased to have the chance to deliver our first programme of workshops for kids and create a fun destination for the summer”.

Arlene van Bosch, Development Director, at U + I, said:

“We are pleased to be working with Blackhorse Workshop to create an inspiring space for the public that showcases local makers. SIDESHOW is the initial project, and we have plans to reinforce Walthamstow’s reputation as a destination for makers in London by providing beautifully designed commercial workshops in the final scheme for Equipment Works”.

Launch Night: Thursday 16th August 6.30pm – Late 

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