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Bluecoats Art Centre

Nestled in the middle of Bluecoat Arts Centre is a much loved, green oasis in the heart of Liverpool city centre.  As part of a £12.5 million regeneration of the Grade 1 listed buildings, Austin-Smith:Lord has revitalised this ‘secret garden’ to create a multi-functional, accessible and flexible space. 

The different levels within the courtyard have been translated into a series of formal and informal activity areas in the new design.  Quiet seating areas, an outdoor cafe terrace and an active central performance space for hosting exhibitions, music and other cultural events are seamlessly integrated into this tranquil garden.

The garden was re-opened to the public in March 2008 to coincide with the city’s Capital of Culture celebrations. The enhanced and improved design continues to be enjoyed by the public as a place to relax in the heart of the city and also plays an integral role in the active programme of events taking place in the arts centre.

Overview

Location

Location 

Liverpool

Category

Parks and gardens

Landscape Architect

Client

Bluecoats Arts Centre

Brief

Full refurbishment of two landscape courtyards

Awards

Liverpool

Details

Project Team

Local planning authority or government body

Year Completed

2008-03-01 00:00:00

Project Size

Technical's

Planting

Overlaying the whole design is a rich tapestry of planting, which establishes the garden’s tranquil character.  Existing ash and fig trees provide structure to the garden, interspersed with new plantings of Japanese maples, with distinctive bark and colourful autumn foliage.  Below the tree canopies, the dappled understorey is made up of a carpet of shade loving, woodland perennials and bulb species.

Materials

The hard landscape framework is defined by a restrained palette of materials.  Richly coloured stack bonded brick paving mirrors the architectural language of the new gallery extension, and is complemented by reclaimed yorkstone paving and contemporary timber benches, designed by a local artist. 

Contractors 

Approximate Map Location


Location

Liverpool

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