Custom Bristol Parklets: Creating Spaces for People in East Bristol
Client
Bristol City Council
Location
Sectors
Products & Services
Project overview
As part of the East Bristol Liveable Neighbourhood pilot scheme, Meristem Design were commissioned to design, fabricate, and install a series of parklets across Redfield and surrounding streets. The pilot, funded through the UK government’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement and secured by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, is focused on reducing traffic dominance, improving air quality, and making neighbourhood streets safer and more welcoming for walking, wheeling, and cycling.
Working with schools, artists, community groups and residents, the parklets transformed underused kerbside space into inviting public areas where people can pause, connect and enjoy their local environment. Each parklet is unique, reflecting the identity of its setting through community-led artwork and design.
Goal
- Reclaim kerbside space to support walking, wheeling, and cycling.
- Strengthen community identity by co-creating artwork and design with residents and school children.
- Provide social spaces that support local businesses and community hubs.
- Enhance liveability by reducing traffic impact and improving air quality.
Scope
Meristem Design designed, fabricated and installed bespoke parklets across East Bristol as part of the Liveable Neighbourhood pilot. Each parklet was tailored to its location, from supporting local schools with creative public artwork to enhancing community spaces outside independent businesses, helping to create welcoming hubs where people can meet, rest and connect.
Solutions
Our approach combined thoughtful design, fabrication and community collaboration to ensure each parklet reflected the needs and character of its setting. By working with local groups and creating high-quality, adaptable spaces, the parklets became more than infrastructure – they became community assets.
Community-Led Design
Co-created with school pupils, artists and residents to capture local identity and values.
Durable Construction
Robust, accessible platforms fabricated to withstand daily use while remaining attractive.
Integrated Artwork
Public realm art transformed the parklets into creative, recognisable landmarks.
Activation of Space
Parklets sited outside a school and café created natural hubs for socialising and gathering.
Impact
The parklets have already had a measurable impact on the neighbourhood, encouraging people to spend more time outdoors, strengthening community ties, and supporting local businesses. They demonstrate how reclaiming kerbside space can deliver social, cultural and environmental benefits.
Strengthening Community Connections
Spaces now encourage interaction, play, and conversations between neighbours.
Boosting Local Spots
Café 3ft6 has grown into a true destination with new events and expanded offerings.
Fostering Identity & Pride
Artwork by schoolchildren celebrates curiosity and community spirit.
Encouraging Sustainable Travel
Reallocation of road space supports walking, cycling and cleaner air.
Testimonials
3ft6 is a community focused café at the heart of Redfield. The café acts as a hub where neighbours and locals come together to catch up, grab a coffee and help each other out if needed. The café brings together people from all walks of life, regardless of age or background, who may not necessarily have connected previously.
Since the installation of the platform, the café has grown into more of a destination. Rather than simply popping in for takeaway, customers now feel encouraged to stay and engage with one another. This has enriched the sense of community. The change has also allowed us to expand our offering, including pop-ups utilising local produce and opening into the evenings during the summer months, which has been warmly received by locals.
Jack
3ft 6 team
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Featured products & services
Design
We specialise in designing beautiful, sustainable urban greening solutions and products that bring nature into public, commercial and residential spaces. From concept to final design, we work closely with clients to ensure that every element is crafted to meet their unique needs, aesthetic preferences, and sustainability goals.
Fabrication
We provide high-quality, in-house fabrication services tailored to the needs of urban greening projects. Composed of skilled welders and carpenters, our fabrication team brings each project from concept to completion using precision and exceptional craftsmanship.
Get in touch
If you like what you've seen in our case study and want to learn more about how this could work in your setting, please get in touch.
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