This public square in Nottingham occupies an important position within one of the country’s largest city-centre, mixed-used developments.

Developed in consultation with the community, the concept is to rediscover the area’s historical character by creating a space which changes in character from day to night, from season to season and in response to specific community events.

The detailed design is carefully managed to feel relaxed and safe both when empty and occupied. The ground plane is manipulated to generate terraces for different activities. Continuous benches are placed at level differences to encourage people to linger. The widest and flattest terrace next to the adjacent building façades allows existing restaurants and cafes to spill out into the square and animate the space.