Build Up Hackney

Located on a formally run-down and neglected thoroughfare, Flanders Way is now a well-used, award-winning community space. The scheme was designed by 26 young people aged between 10 and 22 through workshops involving local designers and architects, which culminated in pitching their ideas to the council and the local community.

The young people then spent two months over summer building their design. The space features a playful boarder of vertical timber sleepers, which mark the edges of the space and invites users to climb, sit and interact with the varying height structures. Located within the border are delicate cast-iron artworks, featuring positive messages to Hackney.

The focal point of the space is a circular seating area, with integrated swings and seating at different heights; a decision that the young people felt important in creating an accessible space for all ages, sizes and abilities. Crafted, colourful armrests create different seating configurations for both individuals and groups.

Build Up Hackney was run in collaboration with youth organisation Hackney Quest, and two young residents were employed throughout. Over 100 volunteers contributed to the project. “I have grown up in Hackney all my life and seen all of the change it’s gone through – for the first time I was able to actively take part in it”. Shenique Bass.

The project was set up in response to Hackney Quest’s 2018 report Hackney Wick, Through Young Eyes that revealed that local young people do not feel informed about, involved in, or are benefiting from the way their area is changing. Build Up aimed to address this problem by giving young people power over an important space in their community.

Photography by Ted Mendez