Dalston Eastern Curve Garden
In a unique collaboration with muf architecture/art, this derelict backland site was transformed to community garden and cultural hub. The 0.2ha garden is the flagship project of the Making Space in Dalston initiative. Part urban forest, part urban agriculture, the garden is a safe haven for learning, growing, relaxation and natural play in a wildlife friendly urban ecology of ruderal and pioneer plants.
Through a process of engagement, with continual feedback, sustainable governance structures were explored in parallel with design aspirations to evolve a sustainable design that met local need. Under the protective canopy of birch, alder and the open sided timber barn, a rich programme unfolds for over 150,000 visitors/annum. The success of the garden not only lies in the inspired stewardship of social enterprise Grow Cook Eat that cares for it but also in the social, cultural and ecological benefits it provides. Ken Worpole says the garden has become, “one of the best-loved, and most joyful features of ‘the new Hackney’”.
PROJECT INFO
Client Design for London, London Borough of Hackney
Location Dalston, London
Date 2007-2010
Area 0.2ha
Trees planted 50
Awards
2010 Hackney Design Award
2010/11 Mayor of London’s Planning Award
CREDITS
Collaborative Designers J&L Gibbons & muf architecture/art
Artist EXYZT
Structural Engineer Stockleys Civil
Engineer Stockleys Cost
Consultant Appleyards DWB
Ecology Consultant The Ecology Consultancy
Soil Scientist Tim O'Hare Associates
Graphic Design Objectif
Photography © Sarah Blee | J&L Gibbons, muf architecture/art, EXYZT