Hardman Square
A green oasis in the heart of Manchester’s business district
The people of Manchester have warmly received ‘The Field’ in Hardman Square, Castlefield. Like other cities around the globe, Manchester’s city centre population continues its increasing trajectory and the residents of the city demand access to good quality green spaces. The vegetation at the human scale transforms the once grey all-hard surfacing square to a rich, verdant series of green spaces. This project illustrates what can be achieved in an existing bustling city context, by creating respite and peace in our hectic, always connected world. Evidence that re-using existing infrastructure with modest budgets can achieve outstanding results.
Seating – a catalyst in transforming cities and promoting the use of public space.
Creating 'pockets' of space was a key intention of the Field in Hardman Square. Loose organic shapes draw people in to sit, relax and socialise. They are designed to promote a positive connection with other people and nature and offer respite in busy and bustling urban environment.
We’re making public space go green
The project showcases how we can retrofit city centre squares with green urban space that enhances biodiversity, reduces pollution, increases peoples dwell times, and reduces rain run off. We believe in creative solutions that balance the need of nature and people in cities.
The Ivy and Hardman Square visualisation
Photo: Felix Mooneeram
Photo: Felix Mooneeram
Creating a Forest amongst Trees
The Field in Hardman Square was created by introducing a lush understory underneath already existing mature trees. Delicately inserting the new planting created a natural forest-like succession of plant species and ages.
A network of meandering pathways has been laid out between the newly planted trees and ferns, inviting everyone of all ages to explore the dappled spaces beneath the mature treetops. For the sunseekers, seating is located in little sunny 'glades' in the forest.
