Tisbury Studio is a demountable, low-budget outbuilding designed and self-built by Studio MAY in 2021, in collaboration with structural engineer-turned-joiner Will Wheeler. Initially constructed in Oxfordshire, the structure was transported and reassembled on a challenging site within the Tisbury Conservation Area.
The brief was simple- to create a flexible workspace for a young professional to run their business. Crucially, the studio needed to be fully demountable — able to relocate with the client as needed.
Given its sensitive location, material choice was central. Using Structure Workshop’s Carbon Calculator throughout the design process, materials were selected for their low embodied carbon and durability. The primary structure is made from rolled and galvanised steel plate, referencing the nearby Upper Lawn Pavilion by the Smithsons, just a few hundred metres away.
The project was constructed over the course of a week with a small group of architecture students, and carefully positioned within a topographically varied former quarry. It borrows greys from the local Tisbury stone and light from the adjoining owner’s wall. The Douglas Fir timber was sourced from a local sawmill being visually graded, and the insulation was formed of sheep’s wool.
The existing site gave rise to a kinked and stepped plan, perched on locally sourced stones and adjustable legs. The timber frame is visible here.
The massing of the building was relatively hidden by neighbours walls, but allowed itself to be visible on the public side- becoming a talking point for passers-by.
Total material and professional costs came in under £7,000 — making the studio a direct alternative to the post-Covid garden offices then becoming prevalent. More than a workspace, the project became a testing ground for Studio MAY to explore the realities of local material supply chains, hands-on construction, and the limits and possibilities of self-build practice.
The Studio glimpses out from between a bay and evergreen greeting walkers. The Upper Lawn inspired galvanised multifaceted cladding changes colour based on the time of day.
The self build team- lead by Will Wheeler. One large reeded window looks out over the lane, whilst three higher windows light the space from the west facing opposite elevation.
A simple detailing allows for a rapid assembly of a project, and minimal issues on site. Window details are based on Walter Segal, and screwed cladding allows for removal of the cladding in the event of damage or relocation.