For this project, we were appointed as landscape architects by a housing association client for a residential development in east London. The scheme occupies a brownfield site and required a coordinated landscape design approach. Initially, our landscape architect prepared a concept design for client approval. Following approval, we developed the landscape architect’s information to support the detailed planning submission.
Our landscape architect brief focused on three key areas. Firstly, we designed a private courtyard at the heart of the residential scheme. Secondly, we developed the north-south semi-public space, which provides a pedestrian route through the development. Finally, we designed the connecting public path along the southern site boundary.
The courtyard landscape performs several important functions. It provides a pedestrian connection between the western and eastern buildings. At the same time, it creates space for residents to play, relax and socialise. In addition, the design incorporates private ground-floor patios and gardens at carefully selected locations. Therefore, our landscape architects carefully balanced movement, play, amenity and privacy within a compact space.
The north-south space also provides access to residential entrances. Furthermore, it creates an important pedestrian route through the proposed development. Our landscape architect incorporated a play area within this space to encourage informal doorstep play. This approach helps create a more active and welcoming area of public realm for residents.
Finally, the southern public footpath required a clear buffer between ground-floor homes and passing members of the public. Our landscape architects addressed this requirement through a simple strip of thorny planting. As a result, the planting provides defensible space while maintaining a clear and practical pedestrian route.
Overall, the landscape design creates a coordinated network of private, semi-public and public spaces. The approach balances accessibility, play, privacy and residential amenity while responding to the character and constraints of the brownfield site.
Landscape Institutes Work Stages: C to D
Client: Swan Housing
Architect: StockWool