Handyside Gardens
Smart rainwater management solves more problems in the cities
A cosy park in central London
Once an industrial hub, the site today has been transformed into a cosy strip of land wedged between modern buildings and the old railway tracks in King’s Cross area of London. The geometry of the park imitates the pattern of the railway sidings that once ran through the site, while the growth found on the original railway embankments inspired the newly planted greenery. The metro runs just 4.5 metres below the surface in this area, limiting the depth of the soil and the number of trees that can be planted in the area.
A cosy park in central London
Once an industrial hub, the site today has been transformed into a cosy strip of land wedged between modern buildings and the old railway tracks in King’s Cross area of London. The geometry of the park imitates the pattern of the railway sidings that once ran through the site, while the growth found on the original railway embankments inspired the newly planted greenery. The metro runs just 4.5 metres below the surface in this area, limiting the depth of the soil and the number of trees that can be planted in the area.
Green spaces reduce stress
Research shows that green spaces in urban settings have a significant positive impact on our well-being. People who live close to or in green urban areas show significantly fewer signs of stress, depression and anxiety. Parks and gardens are great meeting places with space for playing with kids or having a relaxed picnic with friends – all activities that have a proven positive impact on our well-being and quality of life.
Green spaces reduce stress
Research shows that green spaces in urban settings have a significant positive impact on our well-being. People who live close to or in green urban areas show significantly fewer signs of stress, depression and anxiety. Parks and gardens are great meeting places with space for playing with kids or having a relaxed picnic with friends – all activities that have a proven positive impact on our well-being and quality of life.
Contrast Freestyle is true to the original area
Handyside Park is challenged by the limited space and metro running below ground. To prevent damaging the underground it was essential that the park was established with a light-weight solution. While at the same time ensuring that the greenery of the park gets plenty of soil so it can grow and thrive. That unique combination was made possible with our innovative edging system, Contrast Freestyle™.
With inspiration in the way the original industrial area, edging systems are custom-made to realise the vision of the landscape architect. Shapes and the Corten steel are both inspired by the original railway tracks. Making room for people to stay and engage with each other in the small park, the edging integrates urban furniture that lets everyone enjoy the small space of nature.
Contrast Freestyle is true to the original area
Handyside Park is challenged by the limited space and metro running below ground. To prevent damaging the underground it was essential that the park was established with a light-weight solution. While at the same time ensuring that the greenery of the park gets plenty of soil so it can grow and thrive. That unique combination was made possible with our innovative edging system, Contrast Freestyle™.
With inspiration in the way the original industrial area, edging systems are custom-made to realise the vision of the landscape architect. Shapes and the Corten steel are both inspired by the original railway tracks. Making room for people to stay and engage with each other in the small park, the edging integrates urban furniture that lets everyone enjoy the small space of nature.
