We were recently invited to take part in an invited competition to address a streetscape between two new office buildings on the new Regents Place Estate, London.

Informed by the expected windiness of the site, a kinetic canopy was proposed that will both attenuate wind and give visual interest. The canopy consists of an array of timber fronds. Each frond is mounted on a spring mechanism that allows it to move in the wind. A monocoque steel spine supports the wind canopy - as well as playing a structural role, this element has extended wings to give added shelter below. Two terrazzo-clad concrete stanchions support the roof structure; within each are work and storage spaces for use by a florist. These elements are sculpted to provide a display area for flowers and a bench for passers by. On their ridge is a rainwater channel that collects water from the roof, as the channels fall towards pavement level they sweep out to form large pans that funnel the water away.


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