The Bartlett International Lectures: F51 Urban Sports Park – Generational Regeneration

About

Architect Guy Hollaway joins Iain Borden to discuss his studio's design of the world’s first purpose-built multi-storey skatepark, as part of The Bartlett International Lectures Spring 2023. This year, the International Lectures return to an in-person format, with lectures taking place at the school's Bloomsbury campus, in the Christopher Ingold Auditorium, 22 Gordon Street, at 18:30 GMT on Wednesdays throughout the autumn and spring terms. 

Abstract

F51 Urban Sports Park – Generational Regeneration

Hollaway Studio has designed the world’s first purpose-built multi-storey skatepark in Folkestone, as part of a major ongoing programme to regenerate the seaside town. F51 is an adrenaline building. The skatepark embeds extreme sports right in the heart of town. Its beauty is urban. The rhythm of the façade wraps around elegantly, disguising the scale. F51 grows as it rises, emerging from its site. But the end of the building is never revealed, curving and disappearing. With its three layers of high quality skateparks, boxing gym, climbing wall – the tallest of South-East England - and café, it is a central hub for youth culture following the year that skateboarding and climbing were recognised in Tokyo as an Olympic sport, and in advance of Paris 2024 just across the Channel. F51 is flooded with murals showcasing the culture of the skate world as well as Folkestone itself.

Biography

Guy Hollaway has created a design-led practice, Hollaway Studio, committed to innovative building solutions, with work ranging from prestigious one-off commissions to large scale regeneration projects. Working from both studios in Kent and London, Guy has successfully produced award-winning architecture for prestigious clients such as Sir Roger De Haan, Stanhope Plc, U&I Plc, KCC, Benenden School and Chapel Down Winery. Guy has become a figurehead for architecture in the UK, giving lectures at the RIBA as well as for public and government bodies. Guy’s work has been globally published in Blueprint, Dezeen, Wired, NY Times, Times, Telegraph and, in 2020, the practice published its first book with Artifice Press. Recognition for his practice includes seven RIBA Awards. Guy has been a lecturer and tutor at the University of the Creative Arts, Canterbury, and has lectured at the University of Kent and other faculties.

More information

• Visit Hollaway Studio's website
• View the full International Lectures Spring 2023 schedule

Image: Photograph of the F51 bowl by Hufton + Crow Photography