In the dynamic world of fashion and culture, the collaboration between Broadwick and A-Cold-Wall* (ACW*) is a compelling example of how spaces can enhance storytelling.
This partnership transcends a traditional alliance, blending historic venues with avant-garde design to push creative boundaries.
The Genesis of A-Cold-Wall*
Founded in 2015, A-Cold-Wall* emerged as a disruptor, melding experiential design with streetwear influences.
The brand's aesthetic, characterised by industrial materials and utilitarian design, resonates deeply with a generation that appreciates designs reflecting cultural and societal themes.
Printworks: The Industrial Canvas
Printworks, the former printing factory of the Daily Mail, provided a fitting backdrop for ACW*'s Spring 2020 menswear show. Titled “Material Study for Social Architecture,” the collection incorporated the elements of clay, lead, water, and glass into each look, exploring the connection between the tangible and intangible.
These materials were represented in the hues and textures of the garments, influencing the shapes and silhouettes. Models walked down a catwalk built in the main press hall, embodying the synergy between ACW*'s philosophy and the industrial legacy of Printworks, creating a powerful narrative that fused past and present.
Magazine London: Modern Functionality Meets Modern Aesthetic
For ACW*'s Spring 2022 collection, the choice of Magazine London was no coincidence. Driven by the mantra “motion, form, oscillate, and converge,” the collection featured tactical windbreakers, reflective tracksuits, and bold accessories. Magazine London's adaptable layout, which can transform from an open floor to a series of defined spaces, mirrored the flexibility and innovation inherent in ACW’s designs.
The Beams and Silverworks Island: A Study in Contrast
In November 2023, The Beams was chosen for a shoot and short film for ACW*'s collaboration with Converse. Once part of the Tate & Lyle sugar factory, this expansive venue offered a raw, industrial backdrop that enhanced the campaign's visual narrative. The dancers bought life into the space with their movements, highlighting the blend of old and new, a reflection of ACW*'s ethos.
The campaign then moved to Silverworks Island, a rugged outdoor space with a striking city skyline backdrop, providing a stark contrast to the industrial interior of The Beams. This juxtaposition highlighted the dynamic nature of ACW*'s designs, seamlessly integrating elements of urban life and industrial heritage.
Deptford Storehouse: Echoes of Sonic Culture
Deptford Storehouse, a former newspaper depot in South London, was the ideal setting for A-COLD-WALL*'s SS 2025 "Pink Noise" collection. This collection marked a new phase for the brand, drawing inspiration from Britain's rich sonic culture and the phenomenon of illicit radio broadcasting. The collection featured angular seams and a diverse colour palette, including citronelle yellow, reflecting the transient yet impactful nature of underground radio. It featured notable figures such as Goldie and the Sleaford Mods' Jason Williamson.
The choice of Deptford Storehouse, with its uninterrupted, pillar-free space and high ceilings, allowed for the campaign to be shot with the use of drones. This setting underscored the collection’s themes while allowing for limitless creativity, fitting ACW*'s experiential approach to fashion. The aerial perspective highlighted the architectural grandeur of Deptford Storehouse and complemented the collection’s exploration of spatial and subcultural dimensions.
Stories Unfold: ACW* and Broadwick
Our collaboration with A-COLD-WALL* showcases how venues can be integral to storytelling, innovation, and creative freedom. ACW*'s use of spaces - from the industrial charm of Printworks to the versatile layout of Magazine London - demonstrates how the right setting can elevate a collection's impact.
Their ability to think outside the box and trial new ideas brings new life into these venues, transforming them into dynamic stages for cultural expression. These spaces do more than provide a backdrop; they become part of the story.
