The Green & The Gardens

Situated in the heart of the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, this expansive green space serves as a central hub for relaxation and community engagement. Designed to foster connections among employees, patients, and visitors, it offers a serene environment amidst the bustling campus.

The vision for this area was to create a communal space reminiscent of traditional English common grounds, providing a shared area for all campus users. International concept artist Ryan Gander and leading landscape designer Gillespies collaborated to bring this vision to life, integrating art and landscape design seamlessly. Their work includes thoughtfully designed routeways, diverse planting, street furniture, lighting, and sculptures, all contributing to a holistic public art and landscape experience. (cambridge-biomedical.com)

A notable feature within this space is a series of semi-translucent tents made of polyurethane resin. These brightly colored structures serve as both functional seating areas and artistic installations, embodying themes of recreation and escapism. They are designed to be reminiscent of tents, symbolizing a space for leisure and freedom. (cambridge-biomedical.com)

The area is strategically located to the west of Addenbrooke’s Hospital, nestled between the new Royal Papworth Hospital and AstraZeneca. This positioning ensures that the space is easily accessible to a diverse group of individuals, including healthcare professionals, patients, and visitors. Its central location within the campus makes it an ideal spot for informal meetings, relaxation, and community events.

In line with the campus's ethos of collaboration, the development of this green space was a joint effort between artists, designers, and the community. The integration of art and nature aims to inspire creativity and foster a sense of community among all who use the space. By providing a common ground for all, it serves as a testament to the power of collaborative design in creating spaces that are both functional and inspiring.

Overall, this green area stands as a testament to the importance of communal spaces in fostering connections and well-being within a healthcare and research environment. Its thoughtful design and strategic location make it a valuable asset to the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, offering a peaceful retreat for all who visit.