Where Wildflowers Bloom

I have been messing around in the maze of logo design. Is text too boring?   There is a whirlwind of choices to be made and it’s interesting to see how different styles evoke different feelings and associations. For example, the first would looks great for an ethical clothing brand, doesn’t quite mesh the vibe of landscape architecture.  Left pondering the eternal questions… Simple or statement? Corporate or creative? Architectural or organic? Elegant or edgy? Agh. 

CASTLE MEADS = THE CASTLE MEADOWS A focal element in my Castle Meads design is the watchtower, commanding views over both the cityscape and the adjacent nature reserve and wetland sanctuaries. Drawing inspiration from the rich heritage of the site, which spans from the ancient motte and bailey castle of 1066 to the towering chimney of the 1978-demolished power station, the watchtower embodies the site's historical narrative. Furthermore, it symbolizes the maritime legacy and shipbuilding tradition, aligning seamlessly with the project's overarching theme and concept, akin to a 'crow's nest' atop a ship. The Old Castle built in 1066 - Castle Meads in the background.  The Castle built in 1113 - Castle Meads in the foreground. Gloucester City map with Castle & Castle Meads.  The watchtower will offer accessibility from both ground level and an overhead walkway, boasting a viewing deck and an additional tier for enhanced panoramic views. While I continue to explore ...

Above is a preliminary mark-up for Area 4 Woodhatch Place. My primary focus was on identifying the structural planting zones and their potential locations,  considering some plant options I've observed or initially proposed for specific areas. Across from the visitor parking area lies an existing planting area, as discernible on Google Earth. However, my intent in keeping this space open is to draw visitors' attention inward, enticing them to explore the cascade gardens through a network of mowed paths - however this strategy is subject to change.

  Exploring various overlays for the design of Castle Meads. While I have a clear vision of where I want each element situated, I'm encountering challenges in seamlessly connecting these components. Above are a few iterations, to be further developed and finalised next week.

For my design of Castle Meads, I propose the addition of an extra pedestrian bridge to the Quay, enhancing circulation and accessibility from the historical city centre and high street. Drawing inspiration from historical images depicting numerous ship masts and influenced by Copenhagen's The Circle Bridge, I envision the bridge supports resembling boats docking in the quay. Moreover, I envisage incorporating photovoltaic 'sails' that track the sun's movement throughout the day. These could be controlled by a timer or other advanced technologies. The Circle Bridge

  Presented above is my draft hard materials mood board. The thematic response behind my choices is the three R principles: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. The overarching goal is to minimise material usage while prioritising circular properties wherever feasible.  In selecting colours and patterns, I drew inspiration from the local Arts and Crafts vernacular, Reigate stone and naturally, from the colours prevalent in the building itself. My aim is to introduce a neutral palette to the site, harmonising cool and warm tones to counterbalance the existing yellow and pink hues.