This was a joint project with Jack Humberstone, the aim was to compile a report to send to Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council to inform them on the various approaches to the Redevelopment of the Lansdowne region of Bournemouth. The council had a vision to complete a massive regeneration of the area to make it a more attractive area to work and live. One of the key aspects of the scheme is the pedestrianisation of Holdenhurst road. However, initial proposals from the council were very bland and boring. This project looks at effective and creative pedestrianisation schemes around the world and how they could be applied to the Lansdowne.
Roberto Burle Marx is a well renowned artist, one of his most famous works is the paving along Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana Beach. The oscillating black and white tiling animates the path. The image above applies Marx's design to the Lansdowne creating a large pedestrian space that can be adapted to host a range of events, whilst still allowing for vehicular access if required.
New York's High-line is another raging success in the design of public realm. Bournemouth is famed for its golden beaches and beautiful gardens. A High-line type approach could see the introduction of another garden running through the Lansdowne connecting the town centre with the train station and travel interchange.
Another alternative would be the creation of a number of colourful plazas allowing for outdoor seating for the restaurants on the road. This is a scheme that has also been proposed for Oxford Street in London.
The report was sent to BCP Council in December 2019 in the hope that it helps to inform them on how a more creative approach to the Lansdowne could be much more beneficial than the your typical pedestrianisation scheme.
