McEwan Award update

Urban Symbiotics were longlisted for a MacEwen Award in 2021 for their Covid Garden and Wayfinding implementation for the Black Cultural Archiv¬es in Brixton. It was selected for this architectural award for Community Endeavours- highlighting schemes that improve people’s lives in different ways.
The award listed the project as described below:

‘This project realises an updated environment for the Black Cultural Archives (BCA) to meet Covid-19 guidance while creating ambient, enhanced spaces and clearer wayfinding. Stakeholder engagement had identified a desire to make the archive’s HQ more outward-facing and inviting but once the pandemic hit all plans were on hold.

But with loneliness and the disproportionate effects of coronavirus on BAME people, the scheme was reimagined as an opportunity not only to open up the building in a safe way but to prototype methods of creating space more in tune with its community and responsive to a wider population in need of greater awareness.
Installing a vibrant global garden (complete with tropical plants and steel drum barrels) at the building’s front near Windrush Square, a welcoming, tangible link was created between the historic contents of the building and the local community. Similarly, by moving the admissions point to street level, entry to BCA exhibits has become more accessible and appealing to passers-by.
The new garden offers a safe, socially distanced space to interact with visitors and staff. This is integral to the centre’s functioning as a community service, helping to combat negative effects of increased isolation within society.’

ClientBlack Cultural ArchivesLocationBrixton, London, UKServicesCo-design, Co-buildYear2021 AccoladesMacEwan Award LonglistCollaborators-