Planners had asked that the public open space in this new development by Miller Homes should have play value in particular for the under-fives. I worked closely with landscape architect Tom Robinson - together we planned two astronomical instruments that would articulate this particular spot on earth by reference to the cosmos!
The conical Centre of the Galaxy viewer is in the centre of this photo, partly hidden by the gongs that were played in the opening ceremony. This view shows what we called the Star Path running along the curved top of a wall very clearly - the elliptical form arises from cutting the cone of light in a vertical plane. Tom specified a grass slope leading up to the wall, which rises above two metres at the centre, so that it would be a safe height in case children should fall.
You can also see part of the circular 'orbital' path made from steppings stones amongst the planting of low-growing shrubs.
Click for Robinson Landscape Design