Public Realm Projects

Every public space we design is with the end-user in mind, connecting people with their place to create accessible, sustainable, beautiful environments.

Collaboration is key to our way of working and we can help by allowing for all stakeholders; volunteers, curators and funders to be fully involved in the process from design to build through to the maintenance of a space.

Example project: Museum in the Park, Stratford Park, Stroud

The Museum in the Park’s Walled Garden project sought to reclaim a garden which, for fifty years, was allowed to fall derelict. The intention was to create a secret garden, a space in which to further explore the museum artefacts and host community events; at its centre a pavilion building to accommodate visiting school parties.

The Museum now has a living experience for their visitors and a space in which to educate and entertain throughout the seasons. The town has its very own secret garden, crammed full of beautiful, colourful plants, fully accessible and free to visit throughout the year; something quite unique to the area. This garden is contemporary in feel yet domestic in scale, with many attributes of a private garden.

Playground design

Natural play is something we feel passionate about at Austin Design Works. We create playgrounds where children and carers can happily immerse themselves in the outdoors.

We also love designing environments where children of any age can push their boundaries and experience the joys of challenging themselves physically and mentally. Our approach is to include age-appropriate equipment, and tactile, natural features such as logs, sand, and water. We also make sure there is plenty of varied seating for grown-ups, teenagers, and children alike.

Planting is an essential element in our playground designs. Our planting is designed to be easy to maintain, creating shade and defining spaces. Plants also provide colour and scent as well as providing a wonderful habitat for insects and nature.