Transforming Stonehouse

For IDAT106 we have been asked to explore the design possibilities of re-invigorating the area of Plymouth, that is Stonehouse.

My initial thoughts about the brief were:

Where is Stonehouse?

Why does it need a facelift?

What potential areas could be targeted for renovation or complete restructuring?


Stonehouse seems to be, almost like an area with what seems to be a big military background, and some of this can still be seen in current times, such as the Royal Marines barracks or the old navy hospital.

Other points of interest include Victoria Park, which is situated within Stonehouse. From aerial maps taken from Google Maps it looks almost as if originally the park didn't exist, as it seems to be considerably below sea level, which in itself is intriguing as it backs straight down to the seafront beneath Stonehouse bridge.

Stonehouse does seem to require a rather large set of improvements made to it. It seems to contain lots of terraced housing and residential concrete high rises, as well as the fairly run down area that exists on and around Union Street. There are plenty of possibilities within this area. Union Street seems to have many derelict structures such as some of the theatres, which could be modernised and re-opened.

Initially, ares which I deem it to be possible to renovate and redesign include, Victoria Park, the south side of Union Street snd the waterfront area around Cremel. These would be ideal areas because they have plenty of potential with pre-existing structures to improve and the option of open spaces to fill with new and awe inspiring structures.