Context

Bray is unique in Ireland having maintained its Victoriana seafront for over 100 years. But with time passing it was time to bring the modern to meet the traditional. AECOM, along with The National Sea Life Centre and Bray Municipal District, redesigned a plaza along the promenade outside the National Sea Life Centre and several other restaurants and cafes.    Shareridge was appointed the main contractor to develop and improve the amenities in the small plaza area.

Challenge

ARLO Green Design was asked to design and manufacture large, unique tapered planters capable of holding mature trees.

Solution

ARLO's in-house design team carefully studied the plans and the large, tapered tree planter was born. An unusual design, the planter has a small footprint which then gradually expands and opens out to give a fluted aesthetic. It also looked at the long seating elements that would be required and designed a two-way bench; these long seats incorporate use of both sides of the bench and backrest support for those in the community who prefer a bit more comfort. 

For the planters with added seating, the company worked with one of its partners, Public Outdoor Creations, to create the right balance between the large-sized planter and seating additions the clients wanted in its brief. This was easily achieved, and all items were finished in an RAL colour that ties the whole project together. 

The designers were also asked to manufacture Serpentine planters, finished in a lighter cream colour, that could be used as individual planters or lined up to give a wave feature in the design.

Outcome

The project was finished in August of 2021 and has proved very popular with the many visitors to Bray.