David McGahon & Greg Walton
Co-directors and Architects, Studio McW
Meet David McGahon and Greg Walton, principal architects and co-directors of London-based firm, Studio McW
From transforming warehouse conversions in Hackney to crafting sleek urban retreats, their work is a testament to their commitment to injecting unexpected details and harnessing the essence of natural materials. We catch up with David and Greg in one of their beautiful, airy projects, a stunning warehouse conversion nestled in the bustling streets of Hackney. We'll dive into their design philosophy, buildings that have inspired them and uncover their style inspirations and essentials along the way.
LESTRANGE
What is the design approach of Studio McW?
Greg
Context and client-driven design and a storytelling approach. That means understanding how our clients live, how they move through their spaces, and how we tell the story of their life. We also pay close attention to the local environment. We build a lot in London and there is a lot to take inspiration from.
LESTRANGE
Which of your projects best defines your architecture and why?
David
Tudor House. We didn't want to do too much as it's already a beautiful space. So there are light interventions of joinery rather than impose ourselves onto the building too much.
LESTRANGE
An architect's work that has inspired you?
Greg
Louis Kahn. The way he brings natural light into the building and the play of light on the different surfaces.
LESTRANGE
Must read book for design enthusiasts?
David
'In Praise of Shadows.' It emphasises the importance of natural light and how it informs design.