Leytonstone Community Fridge, E11
We have been approach by Transition Leytonstone to design a structure that not only houses the fridge itself but also provides storage and space to allow for a smooth running of the community fridge. We successfully applied for planning permission so that the fridge can be put outside Cafe de Montmartre in Leytonstone; meaning that people can easily access the fridge and take what they need.
The design uses sustainable materials and finishes that are long-lasting; such as the cladding which is made of Accoya - which is modified timber in which a process called acetylation, a cutting-edge patented technology, enables it to resist rot, defy the elements and stay strong for decades. The fridge structure has been beautifully constructed by Thibault Lumpp and is located outside Cafe de Montmartre, 34 Church Lane, Leytonstone, E11 1HG.
Update: The Leytonstone Community Fridge has now moved to its permanent home at Leytonstone Methodist Church, 578 High Road, E11 3DA and is open Fri/Sat/Sun from 12pm until the food runs out. More info here.
Status: Completed July, 2018
“After receiving an offer from a local café allowing us to site our fridge against their external wall, the search was on for a spatial designer to create a protective cabinet for it. We came up trumps with made with volume.
Carlo was well versed in sustainable materials and sang from the same hymnsheet as we did, understanding our need for a structure which was solid yet stylish, well-secured yet welcoming, and above all, as William Morris would have said, both useful and beautiful.
Carlo’s methodology exceeded our expectations. He brought along inspiring ideas and was always happy to discuss our needs on equal terms rather than dictate to us what we ought to be doing. As a result, we were far more prepared to listen to his opinions!
The space filled by the fridge cabinet had previously spent many years in a shabby and unloved condition, aching for the transformation that was to change it from a hurriedly negotiated passageway to a sought-after local destination. And being outdoors, it truly is open to all people, whatever their social status.
Through Carlo’s creative work, the Community Fridge site is bringing dynamic visual excitement to Leytonstone, as well as fulfilling its primary function of tipping the balance of food justice and reducing food waste. We are ecstatic”
