The Observatory by FCBStudios + Edward Crumpton

Designed by four architectural graduates from Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios in collaboration with Devon-based artist Edward Crumpton, The Observatory is a unique mobile artist residence and workspace, through won the design competition held by SPUD.

Architects: Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios
Location: Telegraph Way, Winchester, UK
Photographs: Matt Dunkinson

The Observatory consists of two separate cabin, both sit on steel framed mechanisms which are capable of rotating 360 degrees.

The two structures were pre-fabricated off site and transported via flatbed truck from each location every six months.
The bespoke, rotating stainless steel bases are integrated into the structural timber frame of both cabins, which are powered manually by a wheel.

The final design will be demountable and capable of being re-configured in order to be relocated to a number of sites, such as Winchester Science Centre, Lymington Salt Marshes, South Dorset Ridgeway and the River Tamar. Twelve artists with a broad range of disciplines will be invited to occupy The Observatory for two months each throughout the programme.

The Observatory has been installed in their first location at the Winchester Science Centre, sits at the westerley end of the South Downs on the outskirts of Winchester.


Inspiration from architect:

Inspired by Sol Le Wit and St Jerome in His Study, The Observatory consists of two volumetric beacons which sit lightly within the landscape to house multidisciplinary artists in residence for up to two months at a time.

More details on SPUD and “look in and a look out