This architectural proposal for Old Market, Bristol explores how landscape and shared outdoor space can shape the experience of urban living. The scheme sets out a concept for 70 apartments on a constrained site, with outdoor space forming the organising heart of the architecture.
Rather than treating external space as residual, the buildings are arranged to frame and protect a central courtyard, creating a sheltered, green heart to the development.
Location: Old Market, Bristol
Client: Brighter Places
Service: Architecture
Sector: Residential
RIBA Stage: 1–2
Scale: 70 apartments
Site type: Brownfield
Architecture shaped by landscape
The architectural layout is informed by the Swedish concept of Friluftsliv, which promotes everyday engagement with the outdoors. This idea has translated into a scheme where buildings and landscape are conceived together, with the courtyard acting as the primary organising element.
The landscape forms a sequence of social spaces, offering opportunities for gathering, play and quiet retreat, while also providing a visual and environmental counterpoint to the surrounding streets.
Designing for play, learning and community
A children’s play space is integrated within the courtyard landscape, alongside small allotments and wildflower beds. Drawing on the principles of forest schools, the architecture supports spaces that encourage exploration and informal learning rather than fixed, equipment-led play.
Key elements include:
- Play spaces embedded within planting rather than separated zones
- Landscaped areas that support interaction across age groups
- A setting that promotes wellbeing and social connection
Urban context and spatial response
Set within the mixed-use context of Old Market, the scheme responds to its surroundings by creating a strong internal focus. The architecture prioritises enclosure, outlook and human-scale spaces, ensuring the courtyard feels generous and usable despite the site’s constraints.
The result is a development that offers a sense of calm and belonging, while remaining firmly rooted in its urban location.
Our role
Marrons is responsible for the architectural design of the scheme, developing the spatial arrangement, massing and relationship between buildings and landscape. Our role has focused on creating a coherent architectural response that supports shared outdoor living and a strong connection to nature.
Key Challenges
- Designing generous shared space within a constrained urban site
- Integrating play and landscape at the centre of a residential scheme
- Balancing enclosure, daylight and outlook across the development
