Straightaway, the three key materials involved in the benches are demonstrated in this single photo. Quite simply stainless steel, granite blocks, and wood, with smaller connective parts of nuts and bolts, and concrete adjoining the blocks together.
The above image shows the gentle contrast between the natural and manmade elements that make up the area. As a fairly new build, well in tree terms, the trees have yet to fully develop and crate an impact on the space that they were intended to do. Although this may be combined with the fact that our study of the place is during the autumn/winter. I think it is also interesting to note is the contrast in colour; the brown/orange tones in the bark with the dull greys of the paving. This is also exaggerated now by the autumn colours - reds and yellows.
Looking more at the materials used, some people may conclude that exuberant design was not at the forefront of McAslans mind, but more of a psychological aspect in which to create a social space. However, the materials are up to date and the colour scheme is monochromatic so will not date quickly. The timeless design is also enhanced by the simple shapes used however the mix of the oval and cubic seats does not follow any particular theme. The simple form conveys a rather cold environment, which is also reinstated by the lack of shelter making it feel sparce and exposed. When visiting the site for a second time on rainy day, the colours of the materials seemed far stronger and vivid, with a slight gloss to the finish. The granite floor and parts of the new water feature became more appealing to the eye, which suggested to us why they were installing the new additional feature.
The space is used as more of a walkway between the Worlds End Estate and Kings Road rather than what we feel it was intended for: to renovate the area and bring the two sides of the road together. This means that one of the points for the design brief will have been that the materials needed to be robust and easy to maintain, although it doesn’t look as though it has been for a while (maybe after the renovation has finished). The robust quality will come from the use of granite, with the constant movement across the space it will need to resist signs of wear pretty well so this is a suitable material. The cube seating blocks are also made from granite therefore are sturdy.
Another positive, the design and materials used are very complimentary to a modern style. Clean geometric shapes and lines match the definition of modern architecture. From our personal experience of looking within the estate building, the materials used for the site are undeniably ‘cleaner’ and better maintained.
In terms of aesthetics, style and taste is indefinable because of personal preference. Though some may say that the design is sleek and clean, others may perceive it as dull and boring. It is fair to say that what John McAslan has designed is simple enough to come between the two viewpoints; we may not appreciate the space because it is not direct interaction for us but the residents.
After speaking to one of the architects who worked on the project, he said that 'one of the vital points in the design brief was the significance of using materials that are robust and would not require a lot of maintainance'. On the occasions that we did visit the site, it did appear slightly run down, due to chalk remnants on the floor as well as other dirt stains on the floor. We are sure over time, the materials will live up to their chosen potential.
On a financial level, the materials were costly, but this is due to the fact that they are long lasting, and are not easily affected by natural weathering and rain water. The contrast between the different materials can also be compared to that on King's Road (use of stainless steel) and the World's End Estate ( the yellow brickwork being similar to the timbre slabs). This careful consideration definitely contributes in merging the two areas together.
