Trainee Architects Competition

One of the most historic sites in London has become home to a stunning urban bench, hand carved, and weighing six tonnes.

The Portland Stone creation is the winning entry in a highly innovative competition launched by Cathedral Works Organisation (CWO), the City of London Corporation and Albion Stone Plc in May.

The competition encouraged up-and-coming architects to develop a vision for open-space seating in the City and develop precious stonemasonry skills among young apprentices.

The unveiling of the winning design was held on 6th December at West Smithfield Rotunda where the co sponsors, City of London Corporation, CWO (formerly part of the Osborne Group), and Albion Stone Plc hosted the ceremony in the presence of City of London Lord Mayor John Stuttard, Sheriff Richard Regan and the competition judging panel.

Sam Dawkins, from Warwickshire and Donna Walker, from Windsor, both architectural students from the University of Edinburgh designed the sculptured stone bench and it was carved by apprentice masons at CWO: Simon Coates, Guy Levett, Sam Parker, Michael Thompson and Ollie Clack.

Christine Cohen, Chairman of the City’s Open Space’s Committee which backed the competition, said: “This bench will help City workers and visitors enjoy the very special environment of Smithfield – one of London’s most historic areas. The bench’s unique design highlights the historic connections – and it is an imaginative way to support stonemasonry skills and students.

"The quality of the stone used and masonry skills employed marks it down as a special place to sit – a new landmark for the City."

The bench relates closely to its surroundings with a shape that twists and turns to point to places of historic significance, with inscriptions relating to the history of the area.

On a more practical level, the bench’s unusual configuration allows for many different seating arrangements – with both individual seats, and larger areas where groups can gather – all facing different directions and leading the eye to the wider surroundings.

Sam Dawkins said: "Donna and I were excited at winning this prestigious competition. Having something like this built to our own designs, is a dream-come-true for any young architect. Working alongside skilled craftsmen has been a truly amazing experience and has increased our understanding of the way great stone can be put to good use."

The site of the new bench, West Smithfield Rotunda, is a small garden with many fine mature trees as well as traditional lawn and planting beds. The stone bench is sited on the circular path and complements the garden's focal point - the central stone fountain and statue. The garden has great historic significance: originally lying just outside the City wall in the Middle Ages, horses and cattle were traded at the nearby market. Here the Peasants’ Revolt faltered and here too Scotland’s hero William Wallace was executed. Today the site is nestled between the fine architecture of both St. Bartholomew's Hospital and the thriving – and historic - Smithfield Market.