In pictures: Battersea Power Station’s Malaysia Square is a stunning new public space
(Source: Battersea Power Station Development Company)
A new part of the massive redevelopment at Battersea Power Station has been revealed for the first time.
Plans for Malaysia Square, a huge public space at the entrance to the famous power station towers, were unveiled by the Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak and London Mayor Boris Johnson on a visit to the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur.
Architect firm Bjarke Ingels Group won the competition to design the space, chosen by Malaysian owner Battersea Project Holding Company.
The sweeping space will link the renovated building with the new Electric Boulevard development where a host of new homes, shops, cafes, bars and restaurants are being built.
The space will have a two-level “urban canyon” with stairways and bridges inspired by the Malaysian landscape and includes limestone, granite, marble, sandstone, gravel and dolomite cladding to represent the materials found in the country and inspired by Gunung Mulu National Park.
There will also be a hibiscus-shaped fountain in the centre of the space representing Malaysia’s national flower.
(Source: Battersea Power Station Development Company)
“Bjarke Ingels Group’s concept will ensure that this incredible project has a dynamic public square that offers Londoners and visitors an inspirational experience that will live long in the memory, “ said Johnson.
“The innovative and thoughtful concepts underlying the creation of Malaysia Square honours the heritage and shared history of two nations to form a vibrant and exciting public space for residents and visitors to meet, mingle and shape the future together," said Battersea Project Holding Company chairman Liew Kee Sin.
"It is the shareholders' fondest wish that this will become an enduring landmark which celebrates the best of global East-West collaborations while giving every Malaysian who visits this spot in Central London a true sense of belonging and reminder of home," added Liew.