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Reflect Pavilion: A Beacon of Community Spirit
In the heart of Camden, London, a remarkable new structure has emerged: the Reflect Pavilion. Co-created by architecture educator Matt+Fiona in partnership with local children and the Fitzrovia Youth in Action charity, this vibrant steel and mirror installation stands as a symbol of community collaboration and creativity. Designed with direct input from young placemakers, Reflect embodies not just architectural innovation but also the spirit of local youth engagement.
Co-Creation Through Imagination
The genesis of Reflect was fueled by a community consultation among 48 local youths, culminating in a dedicated group of 18 young placemakers who took charge of designing the pavilion over 12 dynamic weeks. This hands-on project allowed them to explore fluctuating identities in a public space, transforming their dreams into tangible outcomes. “The Young Placemakers took the brief and truly made it their own, thinking of play in its loosest sense,” says Matthew Springett, a co-founder of Matt+Fiona. “The result is a structure that encourages audiences to play and interact, integrating art, performance, and vibrant interaction.”
Transforming Spaces and Lives
Occupying what was previously an HS2 construction site, the pavilion sits amid lush gardens designed by LDA Design, serving as a meanwhile-use space created to address the need for recreational areas in the densely populated Euston area. By transforming a disrupted landscape into a welcoming garden, the HS2 project demonstrates how halted adverse developments can be reimagined into positive community resources. “It’s not just about building a structure; it’s about creating a nurturing environment for our children,” explains Ellie Rudd of Fitzrovia Youth in Action.
Innovative Design Elements
Reflect stands six meters tall, featuring a layered stage with blue timber seating. Its most striking features are the series of angled, polished stainless-steel panels that distort reflections of the garden, providing a playful interaction not only with sight but with light throughout the day. The idea behind the mirrors serves to encourage visitors to see themselves in new perspectives, truly embodying the pavilion’s name.
Welcoming the Future: Sustainability at Its Core
Beyond aesthetics, Reflect has been built with sustainability in mind, employing materials that ensure durability and allow for easy relocation. Once HS2 construction resumes, plans are in place for the pavilion to be rehomed to the Regent's Park Estate, underscoring the project’s commitment to preserving its community roots. “By using resilient materials and engaging with youth in its design, we hope it becomes a cherished fixture in their lives,” adds Dafydd Warburton, design director at LDA Design.
Join the Movement!
Reflect is not just a space; it’s a movement towards community engagement and empowerment. Whether you’re a homeowner interested in nurturing local spaces or a business owner looking to support grassroots initiatives, there’s a role for everyone in championing projects that harness the brilliance of young minds. Be part of transforming your community and sparking creativity within it!
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