Event
LFA debate: The Future Use of Common Land

Posted on 10 July 2023

For the London Festival of Architecture we hosted an intimate discussion on The Future Use of Common Land at The Treehouse in Elephant Park. With open doors embracing the summery hum of a community taking ownership of the adjacent park, four speakers addressed our audience in the round. “As Architects we are recognised for our buildings, but we are remembered for those shared spaces between them where life is played out in common” noted Ashmi Thapar, chairing the evening. 

Tim Bell opened the dialogue with case studies exploring an imaginative approach to urban greening. “What would cities look like if they were designed by mothers?” asked Neba Sere. Ewan Oliver offered a vision to transform neglected grassy verges into pocket parks for people, flora and fauna to thrive. In bringing all creatures together, Judith Losing highlighted the complex negotiations involved that historically have been supported through specific rules. 

The conversation with the audience was humbling and inspiring, and included a moment of sadness around the challenge of BBQ-ing in parks. What does this really mean for life in the city? Keep an eye out for our next event if you’d like to dig into this more.