Landscape Architecture
Hospitality
Our task was to create a landscape vision for the Newlands business park in Luton, UK, which would support the creation of a landmark gateway development. The brief called for a harmonious and visually striking environment that is both prominent and inviting. The core challenge involved preserving the existing ecology and promoting health and wellbeing, while delivering a site with impact.
As part of our response, we proposed leveraging public art as a key attribute to promote the gateway principle. This would provide opportunities for local creatives to secure commissions for landmark art pieces. Our landscape design also connected the project to the existing pedestrian and cycling network, with a view to promoting health and wellbeing. And we prioritised the preservation of existing vegetation along New Airport Way, which runs adjacent to the south and west edges of the site.
Our design solution will deliver a performative and sustainable landscape with a cut/fill strategy and multifunctional approach that enhances biodiversity. It will shape a mixed-scrub woodland corridor, which will create new natural habitats and ecosystems. Natural retaining walls will help to preserve local ecology, while native plant species will attract a range of pollinators. At the same time, the landmark gateway will provide a pleasant site approach, with public art pieces visible from the main road. A range of amenities will also provide opportunities for recreation and exercise, with the aim of enhancing wellbeing, health and happiness across the site.
