Kennington Oval Reimagined

This project is a transformative urban greening initiative aimed at revitalising public spaces in the Kennington Oval area of London. By introducing vibrant planters, parklets and street furniture, Meristem Design have supported the council in reimagining the area into child-friendly public spaces for the community and visitors. The completed project enhances the aesthetics, safety and functionality of the area, while providing new green spaces and seating around The Oval and in front of local schools.

As part of Lambeth Councils’ Healthy Neighbourhood scheme, Kerbside Strategy and Lambeth’s School Streets, the local authority wanted to transform the area around The Oval, Kennington into healthier, cleaner and more engaging play streets. 

We introduced parklets, street furniture and planters including: 

• 166 galvanised powder-coated steel planters
• 33 benches and 75m2 of parklets/decking
• 17 new trees
• Over 2000 grasses, shrubs, herbs and flowers

166 planters: Helping improve air quality and reduce pollution, the planters are providing vibrant splashes of blue, yellow and pink, beautifying the area and creating a more inviting atmosphere. Strategically placed, the planters are helping to build a safer and more playful environment, whilst boosting biodiversity and creating rich habitats. 

33 benches and 75m2 of parklets/decking: Providing more open space for children to engage and connect with nature, we have delivered new areas for them to explore and learn about plants, friendly pollinators and their environment.

Supporting Lambeth Council’s ambitions to be a UNICEF UK Child Friendly borough, the new installations help young people feel welcome to explore freely and safely in their neighbourhood.

Complementing the school street which was launched in February 2024 outside St Mark’s Primary School by Lambeth Council, the new seating areas benefit parents and pupils during school drop-off and pick-up times, promoting a safer environment.

17 new trees: Increasing the area’s climate resilience, trees have been planted to provide necessary shade to the streets, benefit local wildlife and improve air quality.

Tree species include:

• Malus ‘Evereste’ – Apple
• Arbutus unedo – Strawberry
• Magnolia grandiflora – Evergreen magnolia
• Amelanchier canadensis – Serviceberry

Over 2000 grasses, shrubs, herbs and flowers: Adding vibrancy and colour, Meristem Design were busy planting over 2000 plants and herbs in the planters, benches and decking areas. Not only creating more aesthetically pleasing community spaces, but attracting key pollinators and boosting biodiversity.

Plant species include:

• Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ Montbretia ‘Lucifer’
• Liriope muscari Turf Lily
• Phalaris arundinacea Gardener’s garters
• Vinca minor atropurpurea Dark purple-flowered periwinkle

This project demonstrates the potential of green infrastructure to transform cityscapes, enhancing ecological resilience, community well-being, and local pride. By reimagining public spaces with sustainability and community at the forefront, the project sets an example for future urban greening initiatives across London and beyond.