A Space For All
Ardingly, West Sussex
COMMERCIAL PROJECT
Ardingly is a rural village located in West Sussex, known for its, historic buildings, and the presence of Ardingly College, a prominent independent school, and the nearby botanic gardens of Wakehurst. The village is surrounded by picturesque countryside and a desirable location for residents and visitors alike. At the centre of the village is a space surrounded by local amenities which the Parish Council and Royal British Legion felt needed a freshen up to ensure the heart of the village would be secure for years to come.
THE BRIEF
The local Parish Council and Royal British Legion requested a design for an attractive seating and meeting area to act as a village hub for customers of all the local amenities to improve the public realm irrespective of ownership. The area needed a more welcoming feel, to include seating, tables and lighting. Existing paraphernalia, such as flag poles and signage could be moved or replaced and unattractive features should be hidden. All areas needed to consider wider access points and level resurfacing to make the space accessible for all abilities, with low maintenance planting which should retain the open feel between this space and the car park.
THE DESIGN
A warm natural-toned self binding gravel is laid throughout creating a low maintenance surface, accessible for all, it gives a open feel to the space which is flexible for a multiple of uses. A similar darker toned render is applied to the front of the RBL building to blend the old and new architecture.
Small square tables sit outside the RBL, these can be combined into multiple configurations and give an informal french cafe vibe. Three wooden hubs give privacy and shelter for more intimate and shady get-togethers, the one nearest the RBL screens the flat and bin area, this one can also be used as a BBQ prepping station. Lower down, large circular benches and tables give an impromptu place to rest, for family picnics or for cyclists to stop for a bite within easy eyeshot of their bikes.
Pollinator friendly planting is low maintenance, and multi-stemmed trees are evenly spaced alongside the hedge creating an inviting, elegant feel whilst partially screening the car park and giving space to wildlife. Tension wires, attached to the hall, carry festoon lighting and evergreen climbers up and over the seating area creating dappled shade. Trailing plants drape over flat roofs to soften structures and a thick lawn of Clover and Lawn Leaf are low-mow and sumptuous to walk on.
On site signage and paraphernalia has been greatly reduced to improve clarity. The much loved ‘Best Kept Village’ sign is relocated opposite the Ardingly village sign on the main incoming road, a plethora of planters sit either side of each sign for a more inviting welcome to the heart of the village.