Expanding Public Spaces: Meristem Design's First Overseas Parklets in Ireland
Client
Mid & East Antrim Council
Location
Sectors
Products & Services
Project overview
Meristem Design successfully designed, fabricated, and installed four parklets across three town centres in Northern Ireland as part of the Department for Communities’ Covid-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme. Working in collaboration with Mid & East Antrim Council, the project provided modular parklets in Larne, Ballymena, and Carrickfergus, enhancing public spaces with inviting outdoor seating areas.
Goal
To create accessible and attractive public seating areas that revitalise town centres, encourage outdoor socialising, and enhance urban aesthetics in response to the changing needs of public spaces post-pandemic.
Scope
The project involved the design and installation of four modular parklets, each tailored to its respective town centre while maintaining a cohesive theme. The parklets were strategically placed to enhance their surroundings and give residents and visitors the best experience.
Solutions
Working with Mid & East Antrim Council, Meristem helped to identify suitable locations for the Parklets. The parklets were designed at each site to fit with its surroundings and complement the streetscape. For example, the Carrickfergus Parklet is nestled between the coastal road and sleepy streets of the town oriented toward the castle to allow visitors to relax with stunning views. Material selection and planting was considered thoroughly for these Parklets, challenging coastal conditions had to be considered to ensure the long term sustainability and success of the Parklets.
Impact
The project has significantly improved public spaces and encouraged outdoor engagement in the community.
Enhanced Public Spaces
The parklets provide attractive, functional seating areas for social interaction and relaxation.
Community Wellbeing
Encouraging outdoor activities in safe and accessible spaces supports mental and physical health.
Sustainable Urban Design
Durable materials and resilient planting schemes ensure long-term usability and ecological benefits.
Cultural & Scenic Enhancement
The strategic placement of parklets enhances the visual and recreational appeal of each location, particularly in Carrickfergus with its historic castle views.
Before
After
Testimonials
“As a Council, we are committed to providing designated facilities that encourage citizens across the borough to get outside and realise the benefits of fresh air and exercise for both their mental and physical wellbeing.
“These bespoke seating areas and Parklets are fully-accessible and provide an ‘oasis of calm’ in our town centres for citizens of all ages to enjoy the environment around them, whether enjoying a quiet moment in their busy day or enjoying the company of others.”
Alderman Noel Williams
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim
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Featured products & services
Planters
Combining functionality with a style that fits any aesthetic, each planter is crafted with care to suit your location and enhance the space. Helping to add greenery to both indoor and outdoor areas, planters create welcoming spaces that benefit people, businesses and the environment.
Parklets & Street Furniture
Parklets and street furniture help transform our streets from car dominated environments to community hubs. Providing space for people to sit and relax, parklets enhance the aesthetics of streetscapes and help connect people with nature.
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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