A new landscape courtyard for The Forge in Southwark

Developed by Landsec, The Forge is a ground-breaking 139,000 sq ft t office development located in Southwark, behind Tate Modern.

This exemplary development is aiming to be the UK’s first net zero carbon commercial building to be both constructed and operated in line with the UK Green Building Council’s (UKGBC) net zero carbon buildings framework and associated energy performance targets.

The proposed development consists of two exceptional buildings arranged around a large central landscaped courtyard, designed by Gillespies. The courtyard creates a social hub and shared amenity space for the use of the commercial buildings and general public during core working hours.

The space offers a number of seating opportunities integrated into raised planting beds and timber topped concrete units, providing a place to rest and relax. The courtyard also benefits from flush and raised planting beds containing a variety of shade tolerate species and specimen trees, which promote biodiversity whilst bringing seasonal interest of texture and colour to further enhance the user’s experience of the space.

The courtyard has been designed to accommodate a programme of activities during the day and evening allowing for art installations, markets and performances. Particular consideration has been given to the evening and night-time atmosphere through carefully refined lighting design. The external lighting enhances the characterful materials such as the corten planters, responding to the industrial nature of the two new commercial buildings.