Kitchens Beyond the Conventional: Dowen Farmer’s Portal Way Vision
A Glimpse into the Future
In the bustling heart of West London, a revolutionary concept is taking shape. Dowen Farmer Architects, a British architectural studio, unveils its plans for Portal Road, a multi-storey ghost-kitchen tower. Picture this: a building reminiscent of the “Ministry of Magic,” shuttling food to a vibrant public food hall.
The site, nestled in North Acton, once bore the vision of Scott Brownrigg in 2018. Their dream? A two-tower development housing mixed-use rental kitchens and 376 homes. However, Dowen Farmer Architects has a fresh take. Their proposal, Portal Road, spans 28,000 square meters, boasting 12 storeys. Ten floors are dedicated to 260 rentable ghost kitchens serving local eateries and shops.
Architectural Marvels and Magic
The building’s design is a sight to behold. Clad in metal mesh, its cubic form dominates the skyline. The two-story podium’s ground floor showcases glass linings and zigzagging structural beams. But the magic doesn’t stop there. Large openings, three storeys tall, punctuate the facade, giving way to terraces on every floor.
Portal Road isn’t just an architectural wonder; it’s a culinary hub. The ground floor promises a sprawling public food hall, home to 50 to 100 cafes, street vendors, and restaurants. This space aims to draw crowds, fostering a sense of community. And the best part? Visitors can order from any of the tower’s kitchens using an app. Their orders are whisked away to the food hall via “smart food lifts,” reminiscent of magical contraptions.
The Inspiration and Vision
Dowen Farmer Architects found inspiration in Sikh communities, where sharing food strengthens bonds and community ties. They believe this new design reintroduces the essence of crafting space into the city’s core. It offers employment opportunities in suburban areas of outer London. The architects are thrilled to challenge the status quo, ushering in a renaissance of craft and industry.
Portal Road’s exterior will feature a stepped public space, guiding visitors to the food hall. This mesh-wrapped marvel is a testament to London’s evolving architectural and culinary landscape.
Portal Road is more than just a building; it symbolizes London’s commitment to innovation, community, and sustainability. As the city’s culinary scene continues to evolve, this tower promises to be at the forefront, serving a taste of the future.
The original article is “Dowen Farmer designs cubic ten-storey tower for ghost kitchens.“