Based in a self-designed studio in Bethnal Green, Russian For Fish has earned a reputation for doing big, complex things with small spaces and simple materials. Established in 2006 by third-generation architect Pereen d’Avoine, the practice was initially set up to enter a competition to design a new function for some public toilets in Bermondsey. It won, and soon evolved into a nimble and inventive studio, taking on renovation, extension and new-build projects across London and the UK at large, and earning a fistful of prestigious awards in the process. Now co-directed by Nilesh Shah, a specialist in large-scale structures, Russian For Fish is the go-to practice for elegant, playful and bespoke simplicity, characterised by minimal materials and a human touch.
Smitten by their design work, we first crossed paths with Pereen and Nilesh in 2016, working with them to develop Russian For Fish’s communications strategy and champion their architectural achievements. Now, as the practice gets bigger and bolder, we’re delighted to be back on board, sharing news of their latest landmark projects.
Architect Pereen d’Avoine shares the inside story of five artefacts from the architect’s studio – including a collection of rocks, a piece of cork and a decade-old magazine cut-out…
We catch up with architect Pierre d'Avoine, the father and studio mate of Russian For Fish’s Pereen d'Avoine.
A line-up of creatives – including Russian for Fish, Zaha Hadid Architects and Studio Shaw – have designed flamboyant dog kennels, all in the name of charity.
Pereen d'Avoine discusses the thrill of designing her practice’s new studio, a haven of beech and Valcromat.
Russian For Fish’s latest project will transform a former engineering workshop into space that sensitively combines work and play.
Russian For Fish brings a splash of sunshine to a Victorian end-of-terrace in north London.