Brick Lane Public Realm

Landolt + Brown has been working with Tower Hamlets Council for the past two years to develop a range of street interventions intended to re-connect the north and south ends of this famous East End street, to improve the environment for pedestrians, reduce street crime and antisocial behaviour, and to help support the sustainability of long-standing local businesses.

From the outset, Landolt + Brown has worked in collaboration with artist Wendy Hardie to develop a design language that is rooted in the long tradition of weaving and textile production in the area, as well as reflecting the cultural character of one of London’s best known and largest Bangladeshi communities.

The project includes a floodlighting scheme to celebrate the architectural quality of several historic buildings along Brick Lane, removal of short term parking to make way for new street trees and seating, a new artist-led design for the street arch at the south end of the lane and the gable ends and balconies of the 1960’s housing blocks in its central section, along with a range of de-cluttering and wayfinding improvements to enhance the environment for pedestrians.

Landolt + Brown is working closely with local business representatives, resident and local heritage groups to develop designs which have a beneficial impact for visitors but also reflect the aspirations and needs of the local community.

Following a detailed feasibility study completed in 2017, which formed the basis for a successful major funding bid by the Council, the project is currently at detail design stage with physical works commencing in summer 2020 and continuing until late 2021.