Gasholder Park
Camden, London
KEY FACTS
Client: King’s Cross Central Limited Partnership
Project cost: Undisclosed
Status: Completed 2015
Categories: Public, Built heritage, Re-use
AWARDS
Architecture Today 2023 | Winner
Civic Trust 2019 | Winner
RIBA London 2018 | Winner
Camden Design 2017 | Commended
RIBA London Region 2016 | Shortlisted
Blueprint 2016 | Shortlisted
New London Architecture 2016 | Winner
RICS 2016 | Shortlisted
New London Architecture 2014 | Shortlisted
“It’s simplicity at its best. The location and the serenity of this new small park adds an invaluable asset to the growing community”
— RIBA Awards judging citation
In 2008 we won a design competition to remodel the Grade II listed Gasholder No. 8 as a new public space in the heart of King’s Cross. The proposal frames a central garden with a stunning mirror-polished stainless steel colonnade within the Victorian gasholder guideframe. The new structure provides a more intimate and contemporary counterpoint to the vast historic structure.
This fragile industrial icon was dismantled and removed from its site in King’s Cross and transported to Yorkshire where it underwent repairs, refurbishment and repainting. On completion it was carefully re-erected in a more prominent position adjacent to the Regent’s Canal.
In conjunction with Argent, Arup, Shepley and BAM Nuttall, we developed a detailed methodology for the dismantling, repair and re-erection of this incredible structure.
Within this imposing guideframe now sits the mirror-finished canopy which like a kaleidoscope, dramatically reflects the colours of adjacent planting, buildings, people and activity.