context-office-holborn-alleyways-public-realm-design-1
context-office-holborn-alleyways-public-realm-design-2
context-office-holborn-alleyways-public-realm-design-3
context-office-holborn-alleyways-public-realm-design-4
context-office-holborn-alleyways-streetscape-design-5
context-office-holborn-alleyways-streetscape-design-6
context-office-holborn-alleyways-streetscape-design-7
context-office-holborn-alleyways-streetscape-design-8
Holborn Alleyways design

Context Office was commissioned by Camden council to propose improvements for the look and feel of Gate Street, New Turnstile, Little Turnstile and Twyford Place – a group of historic alleyways situated behind Holborn station. Our brief focused on starter projects within a longer term transformation of public realm across the Holborn Liveable Neighbourhood.

These interlinked spaces include intensively used routes from Kingsway, High Holborn, through Little Turnstile and surrounding the Ship Tavern, alongside quieter spots on Gate Street, Twyford Place and the open space at Lincoln’s Inn Fields. Through our on-site, desktop and archival research we analysed present material conditions, use patterns, challenges and ways in which the alleyways have changed in the past.

Our research informed quick-win ideas for new trees, paving, signage, lighting and seating that do not rely on traffic modelling or major changes to the road network. We worked closely with officers to develop specific proposals to footways, street furniture, lighting and tree planting in relation to utilities. We assisted the council with public consultation materials. The concept designs aim to strengthen local identity, support community use, discourage anti-social behaviour, provide summer shade, improve safety and accessibility, while celebrating Holborn’s rich heritage and preparing these spaces for a more resilient future.

Client: London Borough of Camden
Team: with Studio Dekka
1/8
Holborn Alleyways design

Context Office was commissioned by Camden council to propose improvements for the look and feel of Gate Street, New Turnstile, Little Turnstile and Twyford Place – a group of historic alleyways situated behind Holborn station. Our brief focused on starter projects within a longer term transformation of public realm across the Holborn Liveable Neighbourhood.

These interlinked spaces include intensively used routes from Kingsway, High Holborn, through Little Turnstile and surrounding the Ship Tavern, alongside quieter spots on Gate Street, Twyford Place and the open space at Lincoln’s Inn Fields. Through our on-site, desktop and archival research we analysed present material conditions, use patterns, challenges and ways in which the alleyways have changed in the past.

Our research informed quick-win ideas for new trees, paving, signage, lighting and seating that do not rely on traffic modelling or major changes to the road network. We worked closely with officers to develop specific proposals to footways, street furniture, lighting and tree planting in relation to utilities. We assisted the council with public consultation materials. The concept designs aim to strengthen local identity, support community use, discourage anti-social behaviour, provide summer shade, improve safety and accessibility, while celebrating Holborn’s rich heritage and preparing these spaces for a more resilient future.

Client: London Borough of Camden
Team: with Studio Dekka