We actively encourage staff to get ‘hands on’ wherever possible (volunteering blog). This not only includes visiting our own project sites, but also visiting projects designed and implemented by others, which is a fantastic opportunity to provide inspiration for future projects and design challenges.
As Chartered Landscape Architects we have a commitment to continuing professional development (CPD). The Royal Chartered Body for the Landscape Profession, the Landscape Institute, requires all members to uphold the very highest standards of conduct, professionalism and skill – and members complete and submit a minimum of 25 hours of CPD every year. It’s a formal way of maintaining our professional competence, knowledge and relevance, in a challenging and fast -moving professional environment.
To contribute towards our CPD this year we are planning various study tours throughout the year, and some of our team recently completed some CPD during a visit to our capital. London is bursting with exciting and innovative landscape design projects, many of which are accessible on foot with only short distances between them. Our first trip of this year took in various landmark schemes which are detailed below with additional information on our top 6!: -
- Granary Square – this scheme links seamlessly and effortlessly with the various surrounding schemes, which is inspiring considering the phasing of the various areas. What is particularly interesting is the impact and value of the water fountains, which draw masses of people into the space;
- Jellicoe Gardens – the planting is stunning and very skilfully designed. A gem of a public realm space which feels more like a private garden, yet very comfortable at the same time;
- Superbloom, Tower of London – the scale and ambition of this project is mind blowing. But what we found ourselves doing was focussing on the beautiful detail and execution, which provides lots of lessons learned and inspiration for future projects. Never again will we let a contractor tell us that ‘you can’t form beautiful curves with timber boards’. You can – we have seen it at the Superbloom!;
- St Helens Square – the design and generous areas of open space carefully balances the need for a green oasis within the financial heart of London. The scale and repetition of the planting beds give the design structure and form, and accentuate the fluidity of the street furniture, walls and planters;
- Princess Diana Memorial – a stunning tribute and incredible attention to detail. What was particularly noticeable was how slip resistant the granite was - presumably as a result of the ridged surface finish on the stone. We wondered if the constantly running water will smooth the ridges meaning redressing the stone will form part of the routine maintenance;
- Gas Holder Park – beautiful design with a stunning and dramatic back drop of the reimagined gas holders. The dedication to ongoing maintenance was evident, not only with the quality of the planting design, but also its establishment
In addition, the visit also included trips to the:
- Barbican, Canopy Market, Coal Drops Yard, Handyside Gardens, Hyde Park, Lewis Cubitt Square. Marble Arch, Pancras Square, Tower Hill, Wharf Road Gardens.
