Birmingham / Visualising a new neighbourhood
Birmingham / Honouring the locations heritage
Birmingham / Promoting everything good
a good life.
Once upon
a time
Once there was farmland. Then the wharf was constructed making this area a transportation hub where goods were brought in and out of the city via canals. The area is both close to the countryside and beautiful garden areas, but also near the town centre. A combination of business and leisure. This location became the bustling place thanks to the “little gaffers”: small manufacturers that live in traditional houses, with the workshop on the front, and their living quarters in the back.
They would live and work in the same house and often go down to the local pub for a pint after work. It was a community, built on hard work, creativity and a love of making things.
From 1886
to 1965
With the explosive transformation brought by the Industrial Revolution, the area became more and more a place of business. The makers had to make way for the goods depot and central goods station.
The bustling streets that were once lined with workshops and homes are now dominated by warehouses and shipping yards. This area became the vein of Birmingham: the “workshop of the world” now connected everywhere.
The future
is hybrid
The make and trade heritage is now combined with living and playing. Once again the neighbourhood becomes a destination for work, life and play. Imagine a mixed-use location that hosts buzzing cafes and artisan shops, but also innovative start-ups and towering spaces. A lush and green public realm for the community.
The spirit of the makers of the past is alive and well in the neighbourhood. New generations of makers and creatives are inspired by the area’s rich history and entrepreneurial spirit.