TOWNSHEND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

Queens Court is the redevelopment of a retail courtyard at thecentre:MK in Milton Keynes. Townshend Landscape Architects have developed the landscape proposals for the scheme which is due to be completed at the end of 2009. The proposals aim to provide an engaging outdoor destination of distinct character. The courtyard is bordered on its eastern and western sides with high quality restaurant and food retail space. The occupants of these units will be encouraged to spill out into the space, with seating and tables positioned to provide a vibrant atmosphere, both during the day as well as in the evening. The intention is that the court becomes a restaurant destination attracting visitors from a wide catchment. The spatial arrangement of the elements in the court is based on the layout of the organising grid for the building. The design seeks to treat the space as a whole, creating a space with its own unique identity. It accommodates free movement across it and provides an opportunity for single use activities in the centre of it. The space also provides interest to different user groups with the raised pool in the north, and a more contemplative area with seating beneath the trees at the southern end.