Zhi Qian Jacqueline Yu's Playscape Garden Transforms Abandoned London Canal Site

Zhi Qian Jacqueline Yu, an architect, has introduced The Playscape Garden, a unique community center and play area situated on a previously unused canal-side location in Hackney, London. This initiative was conceived as a response to the social disconnection caused by COVID-19, aiming to re-establish ties within the community around Kingsland Basin. The design integrates cave-like forms, waterfront access, gardens, and recreational spaces into a cohesive environment. Drawing inspiration from Derek Jarman's approach to gardening, the project envisions the urban landscape as a garden. It incorporates diverse materials, natural openings, and terraced steps that descend to the water. Facilities include cafes and a library, with Fanqi Yang serving as the creative director. The project was submitted to designboom and revised by Christina Vergopoulou.