M SParc

2018

M-SParc is the highly successful science park developed by Bangor University at Gaerwen on Anglesey. From the outset the client was keen to develop an integrated arts strategy to complement the striking design for the site by architects Faulkner Brown. I worked with Chris Jones, Simon Fenoulhet and Bethan Roberts to create the arts strategy, and the design of the site entrances developed from this integrated approach.

The main entrance is my contemporary take on cloddiau, traditional earth and stone walls that are a distinctive feature of the surrounding landscape, significant for their heritage and rich natural habitat. As the cloddiau turn into the site they develop into twisting strata created using standard split-face concrete blocks made by Mona Precast based just half a mile from the site and utilising recycled local slate. It is a demonstration of how standard items can become bespoke features with a little imagination and innovation, key themes of M-SParc.

At night LED strips add to the gateway experience. My additional entrance for pedestrians to M-SParc uses local limestone from nearby Aber Quarry, which I laid out in meticulous courses to reveal their texture.

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