Overview
A redundant cargo terminal apron was handed back to the city for public use. The brief was open: create a square that would work for daily life, not just events — somewhere residents would actually cross, sit in, and return to.
Challenge & Context
Post-industrial waterfronts often become windswept trophy spaces — impressive in photographs and empty in practice. The challenge was to design a public realm that acknowledged the scale and exposure of the site while creating sheltered pockets of use that would function in all seasons.
Design Concept
The square is organised around a series of low stone walls that run parallel to the water's edge — defining seating zones, breaking the wind, and providing informal edges for gathering. A single covered canopy at the inland end marks the entrance from the city and provides weather protection for the market stalls and events programme.
Outcome
Within the first summer, the square was used continuously from morning to late evening. The low walls have become informal seating, skateboard features, and lunchtime berths in equal measure. The covered canopy hosts a weekly market and has been adopted for informal performances.
