In 2015, we joined forces with Architecture 00. Together, we enjoy collaborating in a shared environment where strategic, urban and social designers, architects, programmers and economists practice design beyond its traditional borders. 00 work with individuals, governments, corporations and communities to solve problems and anticipate change, and to design successful platforms and places. As a studio it aims to reach beyond the design of objects themselves to the social, economic and environmental systems behind them.

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Narrow Way

Temporary Pedestrianisation of Narrow Way


Studio Weave were involved in the designs for a temporary pedestrianisation of Hackney’s Narrow Way.

We painted patterns on the ground...

During the summer of 2013, the shop-lined street in East London was temporarily transformed from a busy bus route into a welcoming, pedestrian-friendly public space. 

...to help turn a busy bus route into a pedestrian-friendly space

Our proposals included painting the ground surface with patterns inspired by the festivities and hot air balloon rides that used to take place behind the Mermaid Tavern (now Mermaid Fabrics) and adorning the street with new benches and planters to invite people to spend time on the Narrow Way. 

Festivities Taking Place

The temporary scheme had an initial test period which lasted six months. After that period, based on consultation with local businesses, residents and TfL, Hackney Council concluded that the temporary pedestrianisation had been a success, and steps have been taken to make the scheme permanent. 

Passers-by make use of the planter-benches

As a local architecture practice, Studio Weave were proud to contribute to the improvement of the civic space and assist in the continued functioning of a local high street. The work was fabricated, installed and planted in collaboration with East London Furniture, Loving Your Garden and EcoACTIVE with help from the local community.

Festivities in Action

COMMUNITY PLANTING, CIVIC ROOTS

Flowers from the planters

During the six month period of the temporary pedestrianisation, there was a series of events organised that included community planting workshops, street festivals, and building workshops.

Local people of all ages were involved in the planting

Local community groups and individuals of all ages got involved in the three seasonal planting workshops. 

Planting

Ornamental plants were mixed with apple trees, thyme, rosemary and sage as a reminder of Hackney’s market garden past. The various street festivals (summer, Harvest etc) reclaimed a space that was formally dominated by double decker buses, and gave it a new found lease of life.

People relax in a space formally dominated by buses

Project info

Location: Hackney, London, UK
Project status: Completed

Sectors:

Public Realm
Arts and Culture

Collaborators:

Client: London Borough of Hackney
Furniture Designer-Maker: East London Furniture 
Landscape Design: Loving your garden by Xoan Perez

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