The existing Peabody development is an aging 1930’s estate, just a stone’s throw from Clapham Junction Station, providing 300 single tenure homes. Located within a walled estate, there is no public access or through route to the station and limited low grade amenity space. A main line into Clapham Junction Station is located to the west of the site further isolating and disconnecting this place from the surrounding context.
The masterplan delivers increased density through a mixed tenure community and open the site by removing the old perimeter wall and creating new public routes through the site that link the development with the station, Wandsworth Common and beyond. FHA’s approach for the provision of open space includes a hierarchy of private, semi-private and public spaces and a landscape that is safe, accessible and welcoming for all residents. FHA undertook substantial community consultation which led to the creation of a range of innovative open spaces designed hand in hand with the residents.
A key component of the design process was collaborative working including:
Network Rail – FHA worked closely with Network Rail to establish design proposals that maintain integrity of Network Rail assets and enable site access for maintenance and inspection. This included proposals for demountable elements (such as cycle stores) to allow future access.
Tree Strategy – working with the Tree Officer to ensure trees are protected and re-provided. The complexities around delivering an avenue of new mature trees over three construction phases has been explored by FHA working closely with specialist tree nurseries to understand the best procurement routes.
Biodiversity – The soft landscape strategy focuses on ecology and biodiversity delivering a mixture of habitats for local wildlife including wildflower meadows, green and biodiverse roofs, native tree and shrub planting.
Signage and Wayfinding – FHA provided a detailed wayfinding strategy for the scheme to support the new and improved links being established as part of the development. Signage took inspiration in its naming, design and colour scheme from the historical connections of this area with lavender fields.
Arts Strategy – FHA formed part of the Art Strategy panel for this scheme as such have been closely involved in the coordination and selection of artists to work on community led art projects – a notable feature within the project is use of original art installed the building elevations that recall the domestic history of the site.
Phasing – FHA worked with the principle contractor to develop phasing and temporary work strategies that enabled the works to be delivered within programme whilst retaining access and causing minimal disruption for residents living in subsequent phases. Phasing also considered the complexities of moving and decanting existing residents.
Technical Design – The high quality finish of the phase 1 scheme is in part a consequence of proficient technical detailing. FHA worked closely with the design team and external suppliers to develop bespoke tree pit solutions that will provide a long term environment for new trees to establish and thrive whilst balancing limited space with extensive below ground service trenches and a complicated build sequence.
Outcomes – Danvers Avenue: Phase 1 has delivered a substantial part of Danvers Avenue a new north-south pedestrian route that will dramatically enhance permeability of the site providing flexible, shared space for informal community activities, incidental play and socialising. Clay pavers have been creating a welcoming entrance to the site which compliments the surrounding architecture and contributes to the unique character of the place and will be unified across its length by the use of semi-mature tree planting.
Outcomes – Plot 01 Residential Courtyard: This semi private courtyard and podium landscape provides a communal multi-functional space for residents of the plot 01. A range of facilities provides recreation opportunities for residents of all ages. Colour is provided by flowering perennials and shrub planting which, together with trees, creates an exciting changing aspect in every season as well a sensory experience. The compositional element of the design will provide an interesting visual amenity to the upper floor flats which is enhanced when subtly lit at night. Level access across the courtyard is provided through the creation of interesting terraced landscapes and gently sloping footpaths.
Outcomes – Added Social Value: The residents of Burridge Gardens have been central to the design and delivery process of Phase 1. Through keeping residents informed and up to date they recognise that they are a key part of the process. They have taken ownership of their external spaces ensuring that the development continues as a safe, vibrant and positive community that is better integrated into the wider community.
Role of the entrant in the project: Landscape Architect
Website: http://www.fha.co.uk/
Other design firms involved:
Architect and Interior Design: Hawkins\Brown
Structural Engineer: Ellis and Moore
M&E and Acoustic Engineers: Max Fordham LLP
QS and PM: Gleeds
Contractor: John Sisk and Sons
Artist: Rodney Harris
Project location: Danvers Avenue, SW11, London
Design year: 2008 – 2012
Year Built: 2015 – 2016 (phase 1)
