The competition for the design of a new modern public square at the Battersea power station has ended and the winning bid has been revealed. Known as the Malaysian square, this square will form part of the £ 8 billion redevelopment strategy proposed by the Battersea power station managers and it is expected to feature a fountain that has a flower shape, and several bridges linked together.
One of the key components of the Battersea power station has been awarded to Danish architect- Bjarke Ingel, and his part of the design will cover some 17 hectares, according to London Mayor. The space to be designed by Bjarke Ingel will link the pedestrian region of high street through the Electric Boulevard with some other key landmarks. New images of the new design released, show that it will be a two-level canyon, and will inter-connect with several bridges and stairways that are inspired by some Malaysian landscapes.
Materials that will be used in perfecting the new structures will include Limestone, marble, sandstone and Granite. The space within the structure will be guided by Dolomite striations and other components that will be included include; amphitheater that has a five-petal fountain which reminds one of the typical Malaysian hibiscus flower. The new structure will be located right at the foot of the famous Battersea icon, and the new shape has been inspired by numerous human flows that create some stunning cascading shape into the streets.
The new project by Bjarke Ingel is seen as a cultural expression of sort, it shows clearly the bias the architect has for Malaysian beauty. The project has also revealed that landscape, architecture and urbanization can be fused together to create the most stunning structures. The new Malaysian design has complimented London’s industrial heritage to a certain degree, and it is believed that the project will open up new opportunities , especially in the creating of several housing projects.
The project being handled by the famous Danish architectural firm- BIG is expected to change completely, the outlook of Miscellaneous street in London, there will be new bright coloured carpets of grass alongside brightly coloured seats in and around adjoining parks. The BIG architects are also considering making use of different diagrams as tools in accomplishing the new big task ahead.
The Battersea council has witnessed tremendous developments over the years , however the new developments are coming at a cost , most especially with expensive properties springing up in nearby areas. Many experts are of the opinion that the new Canyons on Battersea are obstructing some views around the landmark, while others seem to be discontent with the proposed high street pedestrian bridge , which they see as unnecessary. There are several criticisms that has greeted the newly proposed structures and it appears as if the Battersea council authorities will have their hands full when the proposed structures finally get underway . The Battersea council believe that the new public square will transform the entire region into a paradise of sort.