Chilton Square: an imaginative, sculptural structure that weaves itself through a woodland playscape
Chilton Square is a sculptural woodland playscape at the heart of King’s Cross, accessible to the local community 24 hours a day. Conceived primarily for children aged 4 to 12, its central tubular steel structure is inspired by the helical form of DNA – a nod to the nearby Francis Crick Institute within the King’s Cross Knowledge Quarter. From this structure hang climbing rungs, scrambling nets, sofa and basket swings, ropes, balance bars and a range of other play features.
A workshop with children from King’s Cross Academy and Frank Barnes School for Deaf Children invited participants to experiment with spatial configurations using double-helix models and to give feedback on the proposed play concepts. Their responses helped refine and enrich the play offer, including the introduction of quieter, more sensory zones, willow dens and opportunities for role play.
From the outset, the playground was designed to significantly reduce embodied carbon by using reclaimed steel, concrete-free foundations and safety surfacing made from the by-products of cork production – a natural, recyclable material with a negative carbon balance.
Twenty-seven new trees and extensive planting, specially selected for the site’s shady conditions, create wildlife habitats and provide seasonal interest and character.
In line with the guidelines set out in Making London Child-Friendly – a report co-authored by Root And Erect with Publica for the GLA’s Good Growth Programme – Chilton Square is illuminated after hours with a playful lighting scheme by Speirs Major. Activated by movement and responsive to motion, the colour-mixing patterns stimulate dynamic shadow play and encourage interaction.
"The play area is not segregated but integrates into the wider public realm with deep planting beds holding the space, adding seasonal and sensory experiences as well as providing a buffer. It’s a playable square for all, day and night – integrating play and the respite of nature into the heart of the city.
The play area is not segregated but integrates into the wider public realm with deep planting beds holding the space, adding seasonal and sensory experiences as well as providing a buffer. It’s a playable square for all, day and night – integrating play and the respite of nature into the heart of the city.”
– Susanne Tutsch, director, Root And Erect
Chilton Square was commissioned by The King’s Cross Group and is a public square formed by the One Keskidee Square by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris , Capella by Allies and Morrison and Cadence by Alison Brooks Architects.