A live project to integrate the community of Kingston with the new architecture of the Townhouse building and Grafton architect's philosophies. It was a project that encouraged blended communities. Besides the curatorial practice, I was also responsible for the visual identity of the project
For the inauguration of Townhouse, a new building of Kingston University (KU), the MA Curating Contemporary Design and MA Fashion did a joint project in order to attract students and the Kingston community to make use of the new space.
Townhouse building in Kingston proposed by Grafton Architects
Designed by Grafton Architects, Townhouse was intended to create a permeable space, taking the inside out. Kingston University wanted to expand its presence behind institutional walls, in order to bring the outside in. With this in mind, the project aims to create a self sustained system that weaves the University and community together while celebrating the architecture of the Townhouse. A way for KU to give back to its local community.
Key buildings and landmarks in Kingston
To achieve this, we designed a gardening system that weaves together the local and University communities. It's a modular gardening system, inspired by the shapes and ziggurat layering of the Townhouse. Those gardening stations would be placed on strategic locations around the Kingston are, such as the main train stations, market place, at the entrance of Townhouse and throughout the building.
Side view of townhouse and first sketches of proposal echoing the shapes of the building
Modular gardening system, inspired by the shapes and ziggurat layering of the Townhouse.
Parts of modular gardening system
Possible configuration for modular gardening system
This project would be a partnership between the KU staff and students, local community and local schools, creating links between amateur gardeners and nature lovers and an educational network linked through the gardening programme.
Finally, to encourage public engagement and create a self sustaining system, we developed a graphic identity, online presence, branded products and seed packet invitation.
Finally, to encourage public engagement and create a self sustaining system, we developed a graphic identity, online presence, branded products and seed packet invitation.
Brand identity for adverts about the project
Brand identity for adverts about the project
Online presence and branded mug
Seed packet used as invitation for the community
Branded product produced inside the gardening system