We are thrilled to have been shortlisted by Croydon Council in their Reimagine Subways design competition, that seeks to re-purpose the disused subways across the town centre.
Croydon Lives is a collection of urban interventions that re-purpose old subways into use-able spaces that are suited to the needs of the people of Croydon. The functions of each subway are specific to the surrounding context and heritage of their location. Local business and the spirit of community remain at the heart of these interventions; a Pop-up Restaurant, Street Art Gallery, Running Track, Underground Cinema & Themed Market.
Croydon has developed significantly over the past few years. New homes and industry have attracted a huge amount of new residents. With this, we have seen the addition of exciting new spaces. There is a spirit of reappropriation, with venues such as Matthews Yard, First Floor Space and Trmw Hub that have sprung out of disused space; The town embraces a vibrant street art scene, which plays as much of a role in the colour and character of the town centre as the built form does.
As Croydon grows and prospers, it is important that it does not lose its sense of identity to the gloss that usually comes with new development. Its history should not be completely disguised behind expensive cladding and shiny finishes; Embracing the existing urban fabric, Croydon Lives has sought to retain the grit and authenticity of the existing 1960’s subway architecture, whilst enhancing it with bold graphics, rich colour and modern industrial style light fittings.
The naming ‘Croydon ..... ‘ can be easily transferred to brand other interventions in the town; such as ‘Croydon Grows’, which will be an allotment and garden in the centre of the Old Town Roundabout. The distinctive visual branding allows for additional spaces around the city to be easily recognised as part of the brand. This could also be extended to other disused spaces that require repurposing, such as old garages and warehouses.
