We were appointed by a developer client as the landscape architect for this proposed high-density, mixed-use development in Southend-on-Sea. Our brief focused on developing a high-quality landscape design that met the needs of our client and the wider design team.
Following design approval, we prepared the landscape architect’s information for the detailed planning application. This included a comprehensive Landscape Design Statement. The statement explained our landscape architecture proposals and their relationship with the wider development.
Marine Plaza occupies a prominent seafront location overlooking the promenade, east of Southend town centre. The development aims to act as an anchor project for the area. It will also help support the regeneration of the seafront.
The 1.3-hectare site will provide 290 residential units and 3,000m² of commercial space. In addition, the scheme includes a substantial new public realm. Much of this landscape sits above basement parking.
At ground and first-floor level, active frontage will address the promenade. Cafés and restaurants will create activity along this important public edge. Meanwhile, the remaining development will provide residential apartments. This includes eight- and twelve-storey towers along the site frontage.
At the heart of the scheme, the landscape architect has created a large central public space. Planting and high-quality materials will establish a distinctive landscape setting for residents and visitors. Furthermore, the space will provide essential service vehicle access across the development.
The central landscape sits above the basement car park, which accommodates the development’s parking requirements. Therefore, the landscape design needed to respond carefully to the technical constraints of a podium environment. The planting strategy also draws directly from the character of the adjacent coast.
The landscape architecture takes inspiration from the maritime environment. Maritime planting grows through a sandy mulch that recalls the appearance of a coastal dune landscape. This approach creates a strong visual connection between the development and its seafront setting.
Finally, the landscape proposals respond to the distinctive character of Southend’s coastline. The landscape architect drew inspiration from the marks created by advancing and receding tides. Maritime vegetation, coastal colours and local material tones also influenced the design. As a result, the landscape creates a strong sense of place while supporting the wider regeneration objectives of Marine Plaza.
Landscape Institutes Work Stages: C to D
Client: Inner London Group
Architect: StockWool