Somers Town’s Urban Park
Park, promenade, new buildings, London, UK // Design Studio, The Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London, 2020, Supervisor: H. Corlett, In collaboration with: Iason Ntounis
The proposal aims to change Somers Town, London's isolated housing area between Euston Road, St Pancras, and Euston Station into an “island” of attraction. An urban park is inserted, shaped by a penetrable circular band: A boundary where different groups interact; A home for creativity.
Somers Town
The large crowds protect the island from its enemies. The inhabitants have a peaceful routine away from the noise of the metropolis. They only visit it when they commute to work. The activities in Somers Town are limited, and the creative spaces are sparse. The island creates loneliness and alienation. Visitors have not come for a long time, as only a few neighbors remember the island’s existence.
Flood
The residential area of Somers Town Island is now flooded. An eruption occurs. Now nature emerges through the tide around us: Bushes of trees and flowers collide with the urban environment and reorganize the public space. A bridge surrounds them. The hidden desires are unveiled and laid upon it and the whole island is now a park with elements that coexist with the housing estate. People can visit this new heterotopia and experience the feeling of openness and isolation at the same time. The island acquires extroversion.
Section in the amphitheater
Section in the conservatory
Section in the public library
View from the promenade
View of the promenade and the park's exterior