A dense mixed-use development in Covent Garden. Brimelow McSweeney's design focused on the theatre world intentionally creates a unique identity to the public realm.

St. Martin’s Courtyard is a dense mixed-use development in London, Covent Garden with over 70 residents, 3 office buildings, many shops and restaurants. This project with a new restaurant terrace and artistic installations at the three courtyard entrances puts unique placemaking at the heart of the design reflecting the character of the Westend. Brimelow McSweeney’s bespoke design focus was to deliver an atmospheric background – creating a mood that represents a nod to the beauty of outdoors, and the excitement and romance of the entertainment/theatre industry.

The project started with a Mini-competition to better position the courtyard which then suffered from vacant retail units and little footfall. Situated between the Covent Garden Market area, Seven Dials with its independent shops and Healthy living focus, St. Martin’s Courtyard was to become the entrance to a new urban connection of blocks in between – The Yards - while looking to strengthen its own identity as a restaurant courtyard.

Placemaking of a hidden gem is preceded by discovery. Something that catches your eye will lead you to a new place. The three canopies of St. Martin’s Courtyard tickle the senses. There is colour and movement overhead. Surprising effects beneath your feet.

St. Martin’s Courtyard has become part of the rediscovered alleys and backyards of Covent Garden. It is a popular cut-through, leading visitors to wander and invites to rest. The new restaurant terrace at the heart of the courtyard layers in an element of scale, offering seating and cover. The buzz of activity is visible through the entrances attracting passers-by as much as the new inviting entrances. The interventions to St. Martin’s Courtyard have been highly successful in attracting restaurants, and footfall addressing the client’s brief. Brimelow McSweeney's unique approach to placemaking raised the profile of this unknown corporate space to a delightful gem.

Simon Taylor, Property Director, The Mercer's Company said:

"For the Mercers’ Company, stewardship of its assets, not least the refurbishment, and development of the property portfolio, is vital to providing a long-term sustainable income for the charitable and educational support it provides. The key strategy for its Covent Garden portfolio consisting of several adjacent blocks has been to open up alternative connected routes and to add a diverse mix of shops, restaurants and leisure uses. The refurbishment of St. Martin’s Courtyard, the Company's joint venture with Shaftesbury Capital, by Brimelow McSweeney Architects with its focus on the theatre world of the Westend has created a striking entrance to The Yards. The design intentionally creates a unique identity to the public realm to attract passers-by to the new restaurant terrace in the courtyard. The attractive arcade provides undercover alfresco dining and first floor terrace space for the summer. Contemporary artisans and makers have been involved to bring this project to life."