Context

Ustigate designed and installed a crescent-shaped mirror pool as part of the redesign around the Melville Monument at St Andrews Square in the heart of Edinburgh.

Challenge

Built in 1772, the square is one of the most prestigious and popular visitor destinations in the city's UNESCO World Heritage New Town and all development is subject to strict regulations. It is enhanced by a carefully designed and executed landscape architectural upgrade by Gillespies.

Solution

The crescent-shaped mirror pool weirs over the concave edge into a stainless steel collection channel, creating surface tension that results in a reflective surface that captures the magnificent architecture that surrounds St Andrew Square.

To minimise costs, Ustigate designed and built a subterranean plant room below the surface in the adjacent pathway, with a finish to match the surrounding paving. The recirculation system was designed to fit inside the chamber and the electrical control panel was installed nearby.