ContrastinG
ConCrete
Photos courtesy of Chris Hodson
As the next stages of PRP Architect’s public realm regeneration at the east London Brownfield estate
near completion, Chris Hodson – consultant to the trade association Interpave – reviews the extensive
use of colourful precast concrete paving amongst iconic 20th century concrete buildings.
The Brownfield Estate began to be developed
in the 1950s and now has a settled resident
base and strong local identity. It incorporates
a conservation area, linked to the local
landmark Chrisp Street Market with its
innovative ‘Idea Store’ community library. The
Estate also includes listed, iconic high-rise
blocks, designed by ‘brutalist’ architect Ernő
Goldfinger in the late 60s and early 70s Balfron Tower, Carradale House and Glenkerry
House – which contrast with the surrounding
low-rise buildings.
Before regeneration, a key issue with the
Estate was the variable quality and character
of the urban realm, which was ill-defined
with uncertainty about identifying public
or private spaces and fronts or backs of
buildings. With standard width carriageways,
very wide pavements and no defensible
space to frontages, the streetscape was bleak.
Usable open space was sparse and there
were few play facilities. This regeneration
project, designed by PRP for Poplar HARCA,
aims to transform the public realm associated
with both existing and new infill dwellings,
creating new, improved building entrances
and connections to the wider area.
Master-planning Approach
A master-plan approach was adopted,
intended to be cohesive and responsive
to existing neighbourhood constraints
- so ensuring long-term, sustainable
improvements. The design works within the
general layout of the existing, refurbished
buildings and adopted streets, but introduces
new buildings to improve the streetscape: in
addition to a new residential tower, two infill
sites, contained by 1950s maisonette blocks,
are being developed.
Public realm interventions seek to clearly
define footpaths and defensible space,
introduce new front gardens for low-rise
buildings and add new public spaces to give
a sense of arrival. Art will be introduced at key
points and trees added more widely to soften
the environment. Parking will be di