Architects, designers and artists were invited to draw up \u2018bold and creative\u2019 concepts for a new public space on Camden High Street, which will be used this autumn as part of a trial pedestrianisation of the street.<\/p>\n
The competition is backed by the London Borough of Camden, which is running an 18-month pedestrianisation trial this year and next. The competition set out to enhance Camden\u2019s public realm while also supporting local communities and creating a lasting legacy for the area.<\/p>\n
Edgy Collective and LINDA\u2019s winning proposal, which has not yet been publicly revealed, was selected for its innovative interpretation of the theme \u2018square\u2019, and its potential to transform the high street into a vibrant, inclusive, and pedestrian-friendly public space that reflects the area\u2019s dynamic community<\/p>\n
The team said: \u2018We\u2019re thrilled to get the chance to prove that sustainable design isn\u2019t a nice-to-have; it\u2019s the future of urban public space. Greener, wilder, more thoughtful streets aren\u2019t a dream \u2013 they\u2019re a design decision.\u2019<\/p>\n
LFA director Rosa Rogina said: \u2018What stood out about Edgy Collective and LINDA\u2019s proposal is how it reclaims one of London\u2019s busiest streets with intelligence, flair, and a real sensitivity to the spirit of Camden.<\/p>\n
\u2018From the bold use of the road itself as a social spine, to the clever adaptability of the planter structures, the design doesn\u2019t just create a square, it reshapes how public space can function in a layered, lively urban setting. I\u2019m excited to see how this bold and brilliant vision evolves through the pedestrianisation trial and begins to take shape on the ground.\u2019<\/p>\n
Camden High Street links Camden Town underground station with Camden Lock and the nearby Camden Market. Last summer, the council consulted on plans to pedestrianise the street as a new motor traffic-free zone.<\/p>\n
The contest sought \u2018bold and creative\u2019 proposals which \u2018respond to the theme of \u2018square\u2019, reinterpreting the concept spatially, socially, or playfully to foster meaningful connections between people and place\u2019.<\/p>\n
Round one applications were evaluated 60 per cent on team profile and 40 per cent on initial vision. Shortlisted teams each received a \u00a31,000 honorarium to draw up design proposals during the contest\u2019s second round.<\/p>\n
The winning design will be developed in collaboration with Camden Council. The project has a total budget of around \u00a3100,000, which includes a \u00a312,500 design fee for the appointed team.<\/p>\n