London, United Kingdom
Description: New public square connected with underground station
Location: Old Street, London, United Kingdom
Stage: Open Call for Design Ideas
Period: 2018
Area: Around 5000 sq. m.
Client: Islington Council, in partnership with the Greater London Authority (GLA), Transport for London (TfL) and Hackney Council
Engineering: Arup
Digital technology: Urban Intelligence
DR Team: Amélia Chevée, Irene Djao-Rakitine, Giuliana Galasso, Federica Terenzi, Marzia Vanzati
The Stage is one of the main elements of the square. It is a space for people to meet and seat as well as for cultural and commercial events. The Screen can show real-time information, public art and commercial advertisement.
The Terraced Seating above the new station entrance allows the bleachers to look at the stage and screen.
The Islands of Wilderness are protected areas of planting including a diverse palette of species. They are monitored with sensors which collect information on rainfall (quality, quantity), vegetation, moisture, soil, tree conditions, air (pollution, temperature, humidity), wind, light, noise. The islands are contained by circular benches which provide a great amount of seating space for people to rest, have lunch, watch, meet.
The Digital Tech Gallery showcases technological innovation. It is located below the stage, at station level and is connected to the square through a mirrored oculus.
