Unearthing New Malden by Hayatsu Architects, Hortus Collective and 121 Collective
Design concept for Unearthing New Malden © Hayatsu Architects, Hortus Collective and 121 Collective
The Kingston-based team’s design concept Unearthing New Malden takes inspiration from the local area’s brick manufacturing heritage, excavating the roundabout and transferring the earth to the nearby pocket park, where it will create a greened mound that shields passers-by from heavy traffic noise as they navigate toward the High Street. The pocket park planting pairs with new amphitheatre-inspired seating to establish a unique and tranquil place for rest in the town, where biodiverse wildlife and invertebrates are able to thrive.
A pond will be created in the excavated roundabout area, in which an array of planting will be integrated to increase biodiversity and reintegrate marginal and aquatic species into the local environment.
A rendering of the excavated fountain area © Hayatsu Architects, Hortus Collective and 121 Collective
Retaining elements of the current fountain structure, the team will lead a series of community brick-making workshops – the products of which will be brought together with the existing column in order to create a recognisable gateway that lends the local area a symbol that welcomes members of the public into the area.
Construction on Unearthing New Malden is currently expected to begin in 2024 and this page will be updated when installation is complete.
