1. Reconfiguration and simplification of the steps
- including some double-height steps for informal seating
- simple curved forms for visual simplicity and to aid movement through the space
- landings and ramps at different levels to make more of the space accessible, and
- creation of focal point with Thomas Browne monument
2. Installation of water feature
- as an attractive feature of the space
- to provide summer cooling and a sense of tranquility through sound in the city centre, a place for contemplation as well as give an element of fun
- lighting could be incorporated into the space for evening use
- to frame the space and enhance the vista to Thomas Browne
- opportunity to reference Thomas Browne’s work in the layout and design of the feature
4. Inclusion of Thomas Browne and his work in the fabric of the space
- Thomas Browne was an academic and author of many works ranging across a number of subjects including science, medicine, nature and religion. He lived in Norwich.
- He is considered one of the most original writers in the English language and is cited as to have been the first to use and define many words, many of which are of a scientific or medical background. Ambidextrous, carnivorous, computer, cryptography, indigenous and veterinarian are a selection out of over 4000 entries listed in the Oxford English. Dictionary as the first evidence of a word being used.
- Materials could be etched with information or details associated with Thomas Browne’s wide-ranging works.
5 and 6. Use planting to help address level change on Hay Hill
- Thomas Browne often wrote about the properties of plants and is most well-known for his work on the Quincunx pattern in his 1658 publication, The Garden of Cyrus. When unveiled, his monument was located within a garden of its own.
- Use the edges of areas of planting for additional seating.
- Inclusion of different types of seating, both traditional and informal throughout the space.
