The West End Project | London

This £35 million multi-award winning project reimagines some of the most congested streets in central London, prioritising pedestrians and cyclists, and addressing critical issues such as air pollution and urban wellbeing. The project, enriched by the lighting expertise of Michael Grubb Studio, encompasses several key areas, including Whitfield Gardens, Princes Circus and Alfred Place.

Whitfield Gardens: Lighting the Community Driven Design

This urban regeneration initiative aimed to revitalise the public space, enhancing its usability and aesthetic appeal while preserving its cultural and historical heritage. Whitfield Gardens is the first public realm space completed as part of hugely ambitious The West End Project.

Before the initiative, Whitfield Gardens had deteriorated into a space that was uninviting and in dire need of a refreshed narrative and visual identity. Therefore, lighting was critical to the project as the space had become a hub for anti-social activity after dark. The objective was to transform it into a welcoming destination, rather than a place to avoid. The community’s vision was to revive Whitfield Gardens as a social hub where everyone could feel welcome.

The design team aimed to ensure the space would be enjoyable for people at all times of the day. The project includes the introduction of improved pedestrian pathways to facilitate easier access and movement, alongside strategically placed seating areas. Landscaping enhancements enrich the environment and reflect the local character.

In this project, our lighting design plays a crucial role in highlighting the historical and natural elements of the design. Discreet uplighting around the mature trees creates a dramatic effect, drawing attention to their grandeur. The Fitzrovia mural is illuminated with dedicated lights that enhance its visibility and vibrancy, even in low light conditions. Pathway lighting ensures that the garden remains accessible and safe for evening visitors.

This combination of functional and aesthetic lighting transforms Whitfield Gardens into an inviting and contemplative space, enhancing its appeal both day and night.

Princes Circus: Lighting Inspired by Nature in Urban Public Realm

Princes Circus has undergone a significant transformation, turning a once traffic-heavy area into a pedestrian-friendly zone. This redesign on Shaftesbury Avenue has vastly improved connectivity between Covent Garden and the British Museum. The removal of traffic from sections of Bloomsbury Street and Shaftesbury Avenue has created a larger, traffic-free public square, complete with widened pavements and safer cycle routes.

From a lighting perspective, to the north, our lighting design consultancy was inspired by the series of mature, tall trees that create a focal point and woodland area, enhanced by the surrounding distinctive woodland planting and seated areas by LDA Design. Gobo projectors mounted at height, discretely hidden amongst the trees, project a dappled leaf effect in cool light, creating a moonlit forest floor at the base of the trees. In contrast, warm uplights carefully directed into the high tree canopies dramatically highlight their scale and form, for visitors to enjoy for a limited time during the evening.

More, the pathway lighting guides visitors smoothly through the space, while spotlights highlight key features such as the restored historic drinking fountain and newly introduced greenery. This careful illumination improves nighttime visibility and also adds a layer of aesthetic appeal, transforming the area into a vibrant and inviting public space after dark.

The New Identity Of Alfred Place

Alfred Place, previously dominated by cars, has been transformed into a vibrant new park.This green oasis features wildflowers, expansive lawns, engaging play areas, and a meandering path that invites leisurely strolls. The conversion of this former road into a park enhances the urban environment, providing a peaceful retreat for both residents and visitors.

Our lighting design for Alfred Place focuses on creating a serene and safe environment after dusk. Soft, diffused lighting around the play areas ensures children can play safely, while pathway lights guide visitors along the meandering paths. Additionally, accent lights are used to highlight the wildflower beds and lawn areas, creating a magical atmosphere in the evening. This thoughtful lighting scheme not only ensures functionality but also enhances the natural beauty of this space in London.

 
In summary, the West End Project seeks to create a more liveable, sustainable, and economically vibrant urban environment by prioritising pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure, enhancing green spaces, improving air quality, boosting the local economy, and preserving the area’s historical and cultural heritage.

 “It is difficult to choose a favourite out of the West End Projects, they all presented inspired opportunities to bring benefit and enjoyment to many people’s everyday lives in the centre of London. From a lighting perspective, Princes Circus provided a great natural backdrop to work with, alongside the surrounding, historic architecture.

Camden Borough Council and LDA Design supported the delivery of a strong, lit vision and this is reflected by the success of them all. The lighting supports the vibrant, bustling night-time economy, alongside creating a woodland glade to reflect and relax in, which is a great achievement for a relatively small Central London location.”

Melissa Byers, Head of Michael Grubb Studio Bournemouth

 “Through our approach, we saw the lighting element as a critical component to achieving the overall look and feel of Princes Circus and the team at Michael Grubb Studio interpreted the brief with imagination and skill. I’m convinced the new landmark public space will feel safe, comfortable and animated at all times of day and night”

Tim South, Associate at LDA Design and project lead for Princes Circus

This project is featured in the articles below

e-architect  |  Lighting Journal (Cover Feature)  | The Standard  |  NLA Publication