Construction of a new library, designed by Warren and Mahoney, in the heart of Lincoln township created an opportunity for r+m to collaborate with Selwyn District Council on the design of a new town green and square. As well as offering locals an inviting space to relax and hang out, the 'Green' is used to host community events and a weekly market.
Their successful concept drew inspiration from Lincoln's rich context and heritage. Also mindful of Lincoln’s status as an ‘Enviro town’, r+m considered it part of their brief to ensure that stormwater, garden and lawn areas were developed and managed sustainably. A feature of this is the rain garden spine that runs along the edge of the library’s paving. This allows stormwater to naturally run off into these gardens, where it can then return to the water table and also sustain plant life.
A series of linked spaces and elements include usable lawn areas, a paved market square, seating, interpretation panels and the historic millstone. These spaces create a public area that is safe, user friendly, thoughtful, subtle and inviting.
This design brings fresh ideas to the Lincoln landscape. The fast increasing population of Lincoln are enjoying this well considered town space along with the library and gastropub that frame it.
As well as offering locals an inviting space to relax and hang out, the 'Green' is used to host community events and a weekly market. Sun-seeking lawn areas reference the productive local landscape.
connect and create
