In 1901 Frederick Horniman gifted the Horniman Museum and Gardens to the people of London for their education, recreation and enjoyment. Located in Forest Hill, south London, it occupies a unique topographical site with spectacular views over the capital. Frederick’s vision remains central to the Horniman today with their continued ambition to create a better link between the museum and gardens. 

Walters & Cohen worked within a landscape masterplan designed by Land Use Consultants. The project includes the design of a new park pavilion as well as bringing back into use two much loved existing facilities: the Dutch Barn and the Bandstand. The Bandstand has been stripped of unsightly later additions to provide a suitable stage for public performances, and the Dutch Barn has been refurbished to provide a green room for performers using the Bandstand. The client, planners and public were consulted to ensure the design serves the site and local community well. 

The project was funded and supported by the HLF, and was shortlisted for an RIBA London Regional Award as well as a New London Architecture Award in 2013.

Photo Credits: Dennis Gilbert/VIEW