EPPING FOREST PARKLETS

PARKLET INSTALLATION ADJACENT TO A HISTORIC SITE

Working with Epping County Council, Metistem was contracted to install a Parklet in Waltham Abbey, a town in Essex with a wealth of historical significance.

Specified by the client, a great location and one that emphasised the features of the parklet, bringing together English heritage and a modern, minimalist design. Initially an unorthodox idea, however, the two intertwined to create a space that seamlessly moulded into the backdrop.

For the location, an idyllic setting in a market square, it was important to maintain a traditional feel and look. Therefore, a colour palette of Pebble grey, bringing a sense of warmth, and Iron grey, achieving bold highlights, was selected. These two greys compliment each other excellently, achieving a contrast whilst also representing neutrality, allowing the parklet not to impose on the surrounding area, but to create a sense of belonging.

A powder-coated finish on Zintec mild steel sheet was selected for durability, however, to alleviate an industrial feel, hardwood cladding was used on the exterior to soften the overall appearance.

In terms of layout, a triangular bench and planter arrangement were selected to give a fresh and modern feel. A mixture of seating facing inwards and outwards allows users a variety of seating options.

Overall this Parklet was a very successful installation and was very well received by the general public.