We were appointed to undertake a concept design for the transformation of a former bowls pavilion in West London into a local cafe with external terrace.

 

This concept design proposes the sensitive transformation of a former bowls pavilion into a welcoming café with an engaging external terrace, forming part of a wider strategy to revitalise a much-loved local park in West London. What was once an underused single-purpose facility is reimagined as a flexible, community-focused destination that supports everyday activity, social interaction, and the long-term vibrancy of the park.

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The existing pavilion sits in a prominent yet under-activated corner of the park. The vision for its renewal centres on opening the building up—both physically and socially—to create a space that encourages gathering, resting, and reconnecting with the landscape. The transformation aims to strike a careful balance: preserving the character of the original structure while introducing a distinctly contemporary identity that feels fresh, inclusive, and aligned with the park’s evolving role as a multifunctional civic space.

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The design retains the core form of the pavilion, respecting its familiar roofline and footprint, while introducing a series of thoughtful interventions that enhance openness and light. New generous glazing removes the sense of visual separation between inside and out, offering views across the lawns and ensuring that the café feels deeply connected to its surroundings. This transparency also improves natural surveillance throughout the day, contributing to a safer and more animated park environment.

Internally, the café layout is conceived as a compact yet flexible space capable of hosting everyday users as well as occasional community events. Seating arrangements and circulation routes are designed for adaptability, accommodating everything from morning coffee stops to weekend gatherings. The design prioritises simplicity and functionality, using a restrained material palette that allows the activity and landscape to take precedence.

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A new external terrace extends the pavilion’s footprint and becomes a key social anchor within the park. Oriented to capture sunlight and positioned to maximise views and maintain existing desire lines, the terrace provides a generous area for outdoor seating and casual meeting. Subtle level adjustments and integrated planters help define the space without imposing on the openness of the surrounding gardens. The terrace strengthens connectivity to existing footpaths, encouraging natural movement flows and improving accessibility for all park users.

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More than a standalone project, the pavilion’s transformation is envisioned as a catalyst for broader park regeneration. By activating an overlooked corner of the park and offering a new social focal point, the café and terrace contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive and well-used public space. 

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This concept design demonstrates how thoughtful, small-scale architectural interventions can deliver meaningful civic value—breathing new life into heritage assets and supporting the ongoing revitalisation of West London’s treasured green spaces.