‘Destination Docklands’ speculates a new ‘multi-objective’ approach to infrastructure for the 21st Century, providing a core infrastructural function, with locationally differentiated ancillary programme and contextual configurational integration (informed by syntax analysis). London’s Riverbus network was chosen as the primary transport network, a system with low use rates, but wide urban connectivity and opportunities to re-invigorate London’s engagement with its waterways, which is introduced to the Royal Docks in the project.
The core project proposal is to lower the water level of the 12m deep docks and introduce several inhabited north-south crossings, housing boat terminals and programme, with differentiated functions based on the adjacent context. This programme includes a new terminal for London City Airport, a new ‘North Bank’ cultural complex by the ExCel Centre and a number of instances of high street. The proposal intends to establish the docks as an urban centre for the area, housing high street functions within the existing dock walls and terraced public parks along the perimeter. The masterplan of crossings is informed by space syntax analysis of the existing street network and a drive to restore historic memory of lost piers and dock structures, configurationally integrated to the surrounding grid to provide greater connectivity, establishing primary thoroughfares and slow-moving, less trafficked, landscaped routes.
Existing Site
Docks Masterplan
'Stick to Solid' - Experiments in material distribution
Hybrid Airport Section
'Northbank' Section
Airport Perspective