Crafting Glassfields A Landscape Transformation
Glassfields, situated in Bristol’s Temple Quarter, underwent a significant redevelopment led by B|D Landscape Architects, appointed by Royal London Asset Management in June 2020. Their task involved not only reviewing the long-term landscape scheme but also developing a Meanwhile landscape at the site’s core.
Creating an Inviting Public Realm
The project aimed to mitigate potential disruptions caused by the staged development of four plots within The Distillery, a complex comprising a 90,000sq ft office space and a 200-bed hotel alongside amenities like meeting rooms, a coffee shop, and a gym. The objective was clear: to establish a high-quality public realm that seamlessly blends soft and green landscapes, fostering a welcoming environment for office staff and visitors alike.
Designing the Meanwhile Pocket Park
Collaborating closely with the client, the architects identified the ideal location for the Meanwhile Pocket Park. A centrally situated public realm with easy access from nearby pedestrian routes and a direct link to completed buildings was deemed most suitable. The park was envisioned to serve as a flexible space for pop-up events, maximizing the visual impact of soft and hard landscape materials while offering a green vista from the surrounding architecture.
Connecting History with Future
Inspired by the site’s rich history, particularly its proximity to the historic Gardener Haskins, the landscape design aimed to weave together past and future narratives. The Glassfields Meanwhile Park emerged as a verdant oasis amidst the bustling streets of Bristol, featuring wildflower meadows and sensory plantings. Bespoke furniture elements provided comfort and purpose, encouraging visitors to linger and socialize.
Fusion of Temporary and Permanent Installations
The park’s design struck a delicate balance between temporary installations and permanent fixtures, aligning with the overarching Glassfields Masterplan. Bespoke wayfinding elements and playful pathways guided visitors to a central event space, paying homage to Bristol’s local heritage of glass blowing and bottle making. Collaborative efforts with local artists resulted in the creation of unique corten benches, complemented by up-lit channels and a Gobo projector, adding vibrancy to the space.
In conclusion, the Glassfields landscape transformation project successfully revitalized the Temple Quarter, offering a harmonious blend of history, nature, and modernity. Recognized for its excellence in place regeneration, the project exemplifies the intersection of people, place, and nature, serving as a model for future public realm initiatives nationwide.
