Canning Town Caravanserai 

The Canning Town Caravanserai was a temporary (5-year) occupation of a vacant brownfield in east London. It was initiated by the Ash Sakula Architects in collaboration with EXYZT, The Building Exploratory, and a host of other local organisations and individuals. 

Historically, "caravanserai" refers to a roadside inn or rest stop in the Middle East and Central Asia, where travellers could rest, exchange goods, and socialise. The Canning Town Caravanserai embodied this concept by creating a space where locals could come together and exchange ideas, skills, and resources. 

The project involved repurposing shipping containers, reclaimed materials, and sustainable construction methods to create a series of temporary structures, including a café, workshop spaces, gardens, and performance areas. These spaces were designed to host various activities such as workshops, markets, performances, and community events.