Speakers' Corner
Speakers Corner in Portsmouth, on the sea front, is an area frequently enjoyed by skateboarders and roller-skaters, as well as being used for community events like the park run or the local triathlon.
Throughout 2024, the area went into redevelopment, to improve the space for its users. The works included, installing additional , accessible shelters and seating, refurbishing grade II listed shelters and lamps and creating more green areas to boost biodiversity and improve soil health. The works also included various methods of robust flood prevention measures.
Client: Portsmouth City Council
Main Contractor: Volker Stevin
Architect: IDA Design
Product: Tensile structure
Material: PVC fabric with steel frame
Brief
During the redevelopment, the client approached us to design and install a fabric, tensile structure, which now frames the new public art installation, called ‘The Windbreaks’. The structure creates a shelter from the elements, as well as visual interest to the newly refurbished area.
Outcome
The Speakers’ Corner space looks clean and modern, complete with the tensile structure. It’s fit for multi purposes – as was the intention! It has received high praise from locals since it’s re-opening, and we’re honoured to have been a part of this successful project.
