Fast Fashion Architecture
This project explores the adaptive reuse and extension of the Working Class Movement Library, a Grade II listed building in Salford that preserves the history of working-class activism and social movements. The proposal reimagines the library, archive, exhibition, entrance, and events spaces while responding sensitively to the existing historic building.
The aim is to protect the cultural importance of the library while making it more open, sustainable, and connected to the local community. The design responds to the client’s ambition for a building that supports both heritage preservation and greater public engagement.
The concept developed through research into the library’s activist history, alongside contemporary issues around fast fashion, overconsumption, and material waste. This led to an interest in how architecture can support slower, more sustainable ways of making and living through repair, reuse, craft, and community participation.
The proposal introduces flexible workshop and events spaces for clothes making, mending, and skill-sharing. These spaces help transform the library from a static archive into a more active civic space where learning, creativity, and social exchange can take place.
Architecturally, the project creates a clear dialogue between old and new. The extension uses a CLT structural system wrapped in demountable Corten steel cladding, creating a contemporary contrast with the retained brick building while reflecting the industrial character of the surrounding area. The weathering Corten façade expresses ideas of ageing, durability, and longevity, allowing the material to change naturally over time.
Internally, FabBRICK textile waste blocks are used as partition walls within the archive and exhibition spaces. These help organise the interior while reusing discarded fabric as part of the building’s material strategy.
Together, these design decisions reinforce the project’s focus on adaptive reuse, slow architecture, circular design, and sustainable community engagement.
