Northbank
A new public space for central London.
Northbank occupies the former Victoria Embankment Gardens on the North side of The Thames. This new park is a magical place with subtle architectural & sculptural qualities, ancient trees and contemporary planting.
There is a rich Art Deco heritage around the site; The Savoy Hotel, Shell Mex House and The Adelphi Building are iconic examples of architecture from this era. This distinctive aesthetic has influenced the design of the park providing cohesion and an appropriate sense of place. Geometric shapes and patterns from Deco textiles and furniture design have influenced the layout of paths, planting and exquisite finishes. A mix of modern and heritage materials brings a sense of drama to the site with granite avenues laid in oversized graphic patterns, highlights of terrazzo and fluted bronze structures.
The former Victoria Embankment Gardens featured many statues & memorials dedicated to historic figures including Sir Arthur Sullivan, William Forster and Robert Burns. The new Memorial Gardens at Northbank bring together the most treasured of these with a series of new installations to honour contemporary figures from British literature, The Arts and Entertainment. The Memorial Gardens are designed to showcase these important artifacts, set against the dramatic backdrop of the city. Landscaping in this section of Northbank is a gentle balance of period and contemporary style. Hard materials are durable and distinctive, with water features, statue plinths and benches highlighted in Terrazzo.
Planting in the Memorial Garden evokes the fantasy, drama and optimism of the Deco era. Osmanthus burkwoodii hedging and fantastical topiary in Yew are inspired by the waterside location of the park. Formal beds frame fanciful grasses such as Pennisetum villosum, swathes of romantic pastel perennials, playful Alliums & Tulips and the magical spires of Veronicastrum virginicum. Walking through this section of the park will feel dramatic and enchanting.
Details |
The Rambla Esplanade
The former Embankment carriageway is now a wide pedestrian esplanade, running parallel to The Thames. This is a place to walk, dine, and enjoy the park well into the night.
Northbank Pier
Northbank Pier pays tribute to mechanical engineering feats of the Deco era and the original Victorian infrastructure beneath the reclaimed Embankment.
The Meadow Amphitheatre
At the heart of Northbank, this theatre is scooped from the landscape and built of granite & terrazzo. This enchanting venue is surrounded by banks of wildflowers. During the day, visitors can sit and enjoy views of the river.
In the evening, the long-standing programme of summer concerts takes place.
Street Food Market
Just off Villiers Street, the new food market will cater for a busy lunchtime crowd and tourists alike. The Market features catering units and a communal dining area. There is also an outdoor dining terrace. This modern marketplace sits proudly within the south section of Northbank, with architecture inspired by the overall Deco scheme of the park. A fluted bronze vaulted roof gives the space its signature style.