Diarmuid Gavin shares his ideas with us on what has inspired a truly unique design for The Bakery Courtyard.
"The Ormeau Bakery is a much loved Belfast landmark. The reaction of locals to the retention of the façade of the building and its redevelopment as a place for people to live has been warm. Its history is important - it means something to the people of Northern Ireland.
In creating a new garden we want to acknowledge that heritage, but we feel it is important not to live in the past. Taking contemporary infl uence from Ormo bread we wish to take direct inspiration and create a garden unique in style that will allow fond memories to linger while reinventing the space.
The historic site of the Ormeau Bakery apartments inspired us to create a garden with real presence and a collection of plants that breathe life and colour into the development all year round. The courtyard space provides a place for people to gather and relax amid lush planting and evergreen trees that enclose the space, creating an oasis of calm”.
The evergreen trees and shrubs will form a robust structure all year round and act as a foil for a range of perennials. Grasses introduce sound and movement and contrast strongly with large leafed foliage while perennials of varying height bring colour, form and texture throughout. Specially designed lanterns provide atmospheric lumination while the dramatic three storey contemporary glazed link that crosses the courtyard reflects the scene and adds layer of visual interest. “The bold planting and inviting atmosphere creates a fusion between the indoor and outdoor spaces in a harmonising space that compliments the architecture beautifully”.
Unique Oasis
Diarmuid Gavin's design for the Courtyard is a pivotal feature of the scheme, integrating the apartments around a carefully laid out communal area that provides a quiet, calm retreat. Surrounding walls employ reflective materials to enhance the bright ambiance, and timber cladding adds a further textural layer.
The glass bridge bisecting the Courtyard provides service access across and between each level. And aesthetically, it serves as a translucent wall, breaking up the space, offering tantalising glimpses of what lies beyond.
