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The Arena Chelmsford

Client: Aquila Holdings

In the centre of Chelmsford alongside the river is a large paved area (part of the flood relief strategy) surrounded by major retail units. We were commissioned to revitalise this space with a new café, street food options and major landscape interventions all on a new, raised boarded surface above the flood zone. Our designs are formed by a series of intersecting curves, which form the café and shape the performance area. A street food kiosk combines to form an entrance, and guide foot traffic into the main development. The café has large areas of glass relating directly to the waters edge and its associated planting. A crescent of planting sweeps around the major space protecting shops from solar gain and providing discreet spaces for informal seating. This is an ongoing project.

The design impact of the scheme is fully indicated in the video animation available for you to watch.