Optimised Environments Ltd (OPEN) is an integrated design practice where we care passionately about the natural and built environment.
OPEN’s core disciplines include: Masterplanning; Landscape Architecture; Architecture; Landscape Planning; Urban Design; and GIS.
Our collective skills and experience combine to allow OPEN to shape a wide range of urban and rural projects and situations, responding to the cultural, environmental and economic context.
It was really great to see our OPEN (part of SLR) roof planters at 9 Haymarket Square flourishing and to hear about the thriving bee colonies that have taken up residence there. What a great initiative by Mervyn R. and CBRE
We have been working with K2 Architects on behalf of Sefton Council to help shape a public realm response to their ambitious transformation plans for Bootle Strand.
The scheme opens up the centre with the creation of a new town square off the main high street, encouraging seating, social interaction and hosting public events.
New and enhanced links reconnect the area with its canalside, overcoming a series of level changes through a terraced landscape, harking back to the areas original estuarine setting.
The project has involved careful coordination with engineers WSP around the partial demolition and refurbishment of the 1960s shopping centre, responding creatively to physical constraints.
Visuals by Pixelflakes
The first phase of redevelopment of the Former Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh is now complete.
The Mont is a mixed use development for Downing comprising student accommodation, private and affordable homes.
Working with Fletcher Joseph Architects we have shaped a new accessible pedestrian link between Sciennes Road and The Meadows
The proposals mediate a significant level change whilst the paving materials and tones help unify new and historic buildings.
Seating is integrated within planting to create different types of space, offering choice and encouraging socialising. Alongside this is a new communal courtyard for students’ dining and working.
Photos from Chris Humphreys PhotographyHardscape
I’m breaking my usual pattern with a second LinkedIn post in as many days, but when the good news keeps coming, it’s worth sharing!
In another significant achievement for AtkinsRéalis and our client, Aberdeen City Council (ACC), we have reached a milestone in a significant project as part of the wider Housing Programme we are delivering for ACC. This accomplishment underscores ACC's commitment to sustainable housing and community development.
Now, we are thrilled to announce that we have successfully obtained Planning Permission in Principle for a substantial residential-led development at Greenferns, Aberdeen. This project, situated west of the Northfields area, will introduce over 1500 new homes and local amenities, rolled out in several phases.
The development will embody the principles of the 20-minute neighbourhood, fostering a sense of community and enhancing the quality of life for residents. It will also align with the Council’s Net Zero aspirations, demonstrating our shared commitment to sustainability
A minimum of 25% of the new homes will be affordable, reflecting the Council’s policies and our shared dedication to social equity. This project is not just about building houses; it’s about creating a sustainable, inclusive community.
We would like to extend our thanks Brian Lochrie, the Project Director on this project. His tireless and diligent efforts were instrumental in bringing this part of the project to fruition.
Our design team, comprising OPEN (part of SLR), Ryden, Goodson Associates, CCDP, and our QS, and PD team AtkinsRéalis are honored to contribute to this important project, which will shape the future growth of Aberdeen. Stay tuned for more updates as we progress on this exciting journey towards creating a sustainable, community-focused Aberdeen.
Andy BellStewart FergusonAndrew Low#Atkinsrealis#AberdeenHousing#Teamwork#sustainablehousing#netzero
Absolutely chuffed to announce that our proposals for a new park at Dock Branch in Birkenhead have been shortlisted for the Future Public Realm award by The Developer in their Pineapple awards 2024. The proposal are for a unique new linear park in a former rail cutting that weaves through the heart of the town centre, connecting communities, regenerating places, heritage and cultural assets in a way not previously possible.
OPEN (part of SLR) has been working alongside Mott MacDonaldWalker SimeBB Heritage Studio on behalf of Wirral Council as part of their Birkenhead 2040 programme of regeneration - shaping the project from initial idea through to a detailed design proposal.
Absolutely chuffed to announce that our proposals for a new park at Dock Branch in Birkenhead have been shortlisted for the Future Public Realm award by The Developer in their Pineapple awards 2024. The proposal are for a unique new linear park in a former rail cutting that weaves through the heart of the town centre, connecting communities, regenerating places, heritage and cultural assets in a way not previously possible.
OPEN (part of SLR) has been working alongside Mott MacDonaldWalker SimeBB Heritage Studio on behalf of Wirral Council as part of their Birkenhead 2040 programme of regeneration - shaping the project from initial idea through to a detailed design proposal.
As the UK attempts to get out of a housing crisis that has been decades in the making, the growing number of new settlements and sustainable urban extensions being built has seen the role of placemaking take on increasing importance.
So, how do transport planners square the circle of a lower carbon future with ever-changing policy? It’s a topical question that SLR’s Mike Axon explores in this article with Transport Times | News & Analysis | Events.
Read the full piece here: https://lnkd.in/eiDRYafA#MakingSustainabilityHappen#TransportPlanning