Landscape & Urban Design Issue 72 2025 | Page 62

STREET FURNITURE

TRANSFORMING

WHITFIELD GARDENS :

WOODSCAPE ’ S ROLE IN A LONDON LANDMARK

Whitfield Gardens , a cherished public space in the heart of London , has long served as a vital retreat amid the city ’ s bustling streets . This urban sanctuary , located off Tottenham Court Road , has undergone various enhancements over the years to maintain its welcoming and functional appeal . A key part of one such transformation was the involvement of Woodscape , a leading British manufacturer of hardwood street furniture . Their bespoke designs and commitment to sustainable urban furniture played an essential role in shaping the space into a more inviting and resilient public realm .
Enhancing a Historic Space Whitfield Gardens is not just a park ; it is a historically significant site , home to the iconic Fitzrovia Mural , originally painted in 1980 . The mural stands as a tribute to the area ’ s rich cultural and social history . Over time , the gardens have required sensitive refurbishments to ensure they continue serving as a vibrant space for relaxation and social interaction .
To align with this vision , Woodscape provided a series of beautifully crafted hardwood seating installations that offer both practicality and aesthetic value . The introduction of these bespoke benches has significantly improved the usability of the space , encouraging visitors to linger and enjoy their surroundings .
High-Quality Hardwood for Durability and Beauty A defining feature of Woodscape ’ s work in Whitfield Gardens is its use of high-quality , sustainably sourced , naturally very durable hardwood ( NVDH ). The seating and street furniture were designed to seamlessly integrate with the garden ’ s natural elements , complementing its spaces while providing durable , long-lasting solutions suited to the demands of an urban environment .
Woodscape ’ s expertise in crafting street furniture from naturally very durable hardwood ensures longevity even in high-traffic areas . NVDH develops a graceful patina over time , blending harmoniously with the surroundings while requiring minimal maintenance . This makes it an ideal choice for public spaces like Whitfield Gardens , where aesthetics and functionality must coexist . The bespoke hardwood furniture , with concealed lighting by Michael Grubb Studio , brings the area a rich glow and a sense that the space is warm and inviting , both for the people living and working nearby and visitors to the area . Indeed , the passersby have already made great use of the seating , with it providing a much-needed resting stop in their busy lives .
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