Case studies

Kensington Leisure Centre Solar Parklet

Enhancing accessibility and sustainable energy: A solar parklet for Kensington

We worked with the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea to introduce a new parklet, modular street furniture components, and integrated solar features to the space surrounding Kensington Leisure Centre. Building on our previous collaboration with the borough and an earlier parklet installation at the site, the project enhances accessibility, supports biodiversity, and strengthens the area’s sense of community.

The council carried out some engagement work with local residents and community members to gauge an understanding of their experience of the space and what can be improved. As places to rest, device charging and greenery were priority, the parklet and seating components were deemed the best solution.

Together, these interventions transform the space into a more welcoming and sustainable public environment.

The project involved installing a linear sequence of street furniture components, including a solar parklet, outside Kensington Leisure Centre. Positioned alongside an existing parklet, the scheme introduced two circular tree planters from our Muscari range and a 2m × 5m solar parklet, complete with two solar-powered device charging units. These elements create a cohesive and functional streetscape.

To create a stronger sense of community, improve accessibility, and reduce reliance on unsustainable energy sources, we designed and installed a selection of street furniture components to transform the grounds surrounding Kensington Leisure Centre. Each element was carefully designed to align with the colour scheme and composition of the existing parklet, creating a cohesive and welcoming public space.

Circular Tree Planters

Two circular tree planters with integrated seating and additional arm rests were installed to provide areas to rest and improve accessibility for users. The tree planters aimed to provide shade and were placed strategically to slow down people on bikes and scooters who use the pathway.

Solar Parklet

A custom-designed solar parklet was introduced to provide additional areas to rest, shelter while incorporating a sustainable on-site energy source.

Green Roof and Planting

The solar parklet features an integrated green roof and planting scheme, designed to enhance biodiversity, soften the built environment, and contribute to improved air quality.

Solar Charging Units

Solar-powered device charging units were built directly into the seating and powered by the parklet’s solar panels, offering added convenience for passers-by and leisure centre users while promoting the use of renewable energy.

The introduction of the parklet and seating components has delivered a range of positive benefits for the surrounding environment, local community, and leisure centre users. By combining accessible seating with integrated sustainable energy features, the project has created a more inclusive public space that encourages people to spend longer in the area and engage with their surroundings.

Improved Accessibility

Features such as integrated ramps on the solar parklet and armrests on seating elements ensure the space can be comfortably used by people of all abilities.

Biodiversity Boost

Planting incorporated throughout the parklet and seating features enhances the visual quality of the space, supports pollinators, and contributes to cleaner air and increased urban greening.

Sustainable Energy Integration

The solar parklet and solar-powered device charging units reduce reliance on unsustainable energy sources, demonstrating how renewable technologies can be seamlessly embedded into everyday public infrastructure.

Enhanced Community Engagement and Place Identity

By creating welcoming areas to sit and rest, the installation encourages and fosters a stronger sense of place and community. The cohesive design and sustainability features help reinforce a positive identity for the leisure centre and its surrounding public realm.

Client

Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Location

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