Project Overview:
The reimagined Paddington Central Amphitheatre by Gillespies is a vibrant social hub within the 11-acre mixed-use campus of Paddington Central by British Land. Its undulating seating, adorned with foliage, and expansive performance space redefine urban connectivity, reflecting a societal shift towards urban greening for well-being and resilience.
The Story
British Land’s brief was to redesign the existing amphitheatre, formerly known as Sheldon Square, to create a greener space with a distinct identity—one that exudes vibrancy, accessibility, and warmth. Gillespies initially assessed the challenges, which comprised poor circulation, levels of isolation, and a lack of identity.
Gillespies fashioned an environment that would resonate with all who encountered it, creating a thriving social hub that feels personal, uplifting, inclusive and green.
The redesigned Amphitheatre nods to its architectural origins, crafted by Sidell Gibson in the 2000s. It honours the original ambition of a central space for the local community, but introduces a modern aesthetic that champions inclusivity, diversity and the symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature.
Traditional curved seating has been replaced with undulating concrete seating adorned with greenery, increasing seating capacity and enhancing space for events. Other enhancements include wider terraces and DDA-compliant steps and slope connecting the stage, a captivating water feature, a 50-metre-long permanent art installation, improved lighting, and biodiverse planting. All combine to transform this once-dull urban area into a sensory-rich environment.
Sustainability
Preserving 12 lime trees above the Amphitheatre and introducing 8 new trees along with 160 sqm of biodiverse flora marks a substantial stride towards forging a more sustainable future for Paddington. Beyond supporting pollinators, curbing pollution, and enhancing air quality, the planting boosts biodiversity and fortifies resilience against climate change. Structural shrubs and perennials form a robust foundation, combined with Mediterranean planting, prized for its drought tolerance, vibrant hues and pollinator attraction. Other noteworthy achievements include a 79% reduction in embodied carbon, achieved through pioneering the use of EFC® concrete—a first in the northern hemisphere.
Community Impact and Engagement
Strategic enhancements to shop frontages have elevated the Amphitheatre’s aesthetic appeal, attracting interest from new retailers. The project has ignited a range of improvements across Paddington Central, including the retrofit of 3 Sheldon Square with prefabricated cascading planted balconies by Gillespies. The allure of the amphitheatre has drawn companies like Virgin Media, which chose Paddington Central for its headquarters, occupying 83,000 sq ft of space at 3 Sheldon Square.
Since its opening in 2023, the Amphitheatre has emerged as a vibrant destination, and cherished sanctuary for residents, workers and visitors alike. Equipped with a large outdoor screen and flexible lighting, the Amphitheatre hosts an array of cultural events, pop-ups music performances throughout the year. The space serves as a nexus, strengthening connections to Kingdom Street, Regent’s Canal and Paddington Station.
Extensive consultation with locals, office workers, and businesses shaped the design to align seamlessly with community needs, fostering active lifestyles and providing a space for relaxation, work, and play.
Conclusion
Despite its modest size, the Amphitheatre’s social and environmental impact reverberates far beyond its confines. It has boosted local biodiversity and become a catalyst for development in the vicinity, elevating Paddington Central into a thriving destination.
Architecture offices involved in the design: Feix&Merlin
Location: Paddington Central Amphitheatre, Sheldon Square, London W2 6EZ
Design year: July 2019 – March 2020
Construction Year: March 2020-May 2023
Year Completed: May 2023
