We were appointed by a local authority client as landscape architects to design a new public space around a public café at Island Gardens, Tower Hamlets. Our landscape architecture brief focused on creating an attractive and functional space around the new café. It also included additional seating and picnic tables for park users.
Our scope included discharging landscape planning conditions, preparing landscape architecture tender information and monitoring the construction works through to completion.
Island Gardens is Grade II listed and sits on the north bank of the River Thames. The park provides impressive views across the river towards the former Greenwich Hospital and other notable Greenwich landmarks. The new 350m² external café space sits at the western end of the park, next to the Greenwich Foot Tunnel North.
The café space sits within a mature landscape dominated by London Plane trees. One significant tree stands within the centre of the new external café area. Consequently, protecting the existing trees became a key consideration throughout the landscape design process.
Our landscape architects carefully developed the levels to respond to the existing trees and site constraints. We coordinated the proposed edging details and paving build-ups with the project arboricultural consultant. This approach helped minimise potential impacts on existing tree roots.
Where possible, we retained existing kerbs, sub-bases and foundations. As a result, the construction strategy reduced the need for excavation and potential root disturbance. We also selected a permeable resin-bound paving system that responded sensitively to the existing tree-root environment.
Accessibility presented another important design consideration. The landscape design needed to comply with the requirements of Part M (Buildings Other than Dwellings). Therefore, our landscape architects carefully considered gradients, level changes and access routes throughout the café space. We also provided level access at all thresholds to the new building.
We retained existing vegetation wherever possible. In addition, we introduced a robust planting palette suited to the environmental conditions beneath and around the mature trees. The shrub and groundcover planting provides evergreen foliage, seasonal interest, scent and valuable wildlife benefits.
Through careful landscape architecture and detailed coordination, the project integrates the new café within the established character of Island Gardens. The completed public realm provides a welcoming setting for café users while also improving the wider visitor experience within this important historic park.
Landscape Institutes Work Stages: 4a to 6
Client: London Borough of Tower Hamlets
Architect: Makespace Architects
Developer/ Contractor: Ark Build Plc.