SUMMERTOWN, OXFORD

Landscape Construction Cost: £150k approx.
RIBA Work Stages: 3 to 6

GUARDA was commissioned to carry out all landscape design services surrounding a new hotel and retail block in the bustling centre of Summertown. It included an informal appraisal of the existing site and its context, pre-application concept scheme development and production of a landscape package for the planning application.

The key challenge was to integrate a new urban landscape within an established and vibrant streetscape whilst at the same time providing contrasting and tranquil garden areas at the back of the development. It was important to frame the building and add large-scale trees at the frontage and soften views from sensitive receptors, especially

from houses facing onto the site from south and east.

Liaison with the LPA and members of the design team was necessary to provide a comprehensive landscape planning package, including the landscape chapter of the Design and Access Statement.