neighbourhood studio entered the open call competition and was shortlisted for the canopy in Low Hall Sports Ground.

Our proposal was a simple, bespoke series of interventions which would create an inviting journey through the woodland by means of welcoming entrance areas, widening and enlivening the pathway, and creating an enchanting performance area:

Entrance zones at both ends of the pathway were proposed with a Terrazzo chequerboard pattern, reminiscent of Victorian hallways, set into the surface of the path.

A performance area composed of a canopy hanging in the treetops with visually linked steps and seating on the woodland floor would form an open and permanently available performance space, suited to both ad-hoc and planned performances. A sturdy, elegant, warm and magical feel was sought for this though the use of charred timber as the main material forming both canopy and items on the ground, combined with gold leaf on the canopy. The family of charred timber elements could also be expanded throughout the woodland depending on feedback from the local user groups and available budget.