Woolwich Squares

London, United Kingdom | 2012

Envisaged as part of the wider Woolwich masterplan, (which was to create a fully accessible public space for all, with feature lighting, soft landscaping and a water feature that could drain to accommodate events), Gustafson Porter + Bowman’s scheme is based on the concept that each square should embody an essential quality of Woolwich, whether historic or natural.

A major part of the design was the use of pedestrian movement studies to identify key routes through the town centre. Terracing was then utilised to improve the usability of the steeply sloping squares and ensure accessibility for all users. Materials such as natural stone were carefully chosen for their robustness and appearance, while the planting was selected with both aesthetic and practical qualities in mind.

Although the language of the project is modern, the design is sensitive to the historic fabric of Woolwich which houses many Grade II listed buildings. The soft landscaping addresses the shortage of green space, and not only generates a sense of calm and relaxation, but also provides an important functional space that can be used for multiple functions. Furthermore, a drip irrigation for the driest months has been installed around the planter beds and the meticulous placement of trees and shrubs has created a microclimate that separates the heart of the square from the noise and pollution of surrounding bus filled roads.

“Reasserting the importance of open and inclusive space, General Gordon Square illuminates the role of urban public places in establishing notions of normality and developing a sense of belonging, and provides a live example of convivial culture, in which we live together with all our ordinary differences.

It offers a glimpse at how architects might make a difference and of what the future city might look like.”
— Charlotte Bates, "Conviviality, disability and design in the city", The Sociological Review (2018)
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A film by Esther Johnson · 2015 'Alone Together, the Social Life of Benches' illuminates the thoughts and memories of frequent users of two public spaces in London: General Gordon Square, Woolwich and St Helier Open Space, Sutton. Revolving around the micro-space of the humble bench, the emotional and experiential capacity of film is used to highlight themes such as the feeling of being in a space, the rhythm and flow of visitors to a place, and the importance of design for everyday street furniture. The film acts like a stranger who joins you on a bench to ‘watch the world go by’, and break the ice by starting a conversation with their fellow bench user. Alone Together was made as part of collaborative research 'The Bench Project', which explores how individuals and groups use public space. Funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council Connected Communities programme 2015. blanchepictures.com/alone-together/

“General Gordon Square is now a wonderful space for the community and we’ve enjoyed seeing people from all over the borough and visitors enjoying events in the square and children especially enjoying the new water feature.”
— Councillor Chris Roberts, Leader of Royal Borough of Greenwich (Client)
“By bringing together a previously fragmented town centre, we have rejuvenated Woolwich’s public spaces and brought people back into the heart of the town.”
— Neil Porter, Founding Partner

Awards

2015    Shortlist, Plan Awards, Category: Landscape
2014    Shortlist, New London Awards, Category: Public Spaces
2013    Winner, London Planning Awards, Category: Best Town Centre Project
2013    Shortlist, London Planning Awards, Category: Best New Public Space
2011     Finalist, New London Awards, Category: Future Projects / Placemaking