Normansfield Hospital

Teddington, South West London

Client

Laing Homes (Thames Valley) Ltd

Principal Stakeholders

  • Landscape Architect: The Landscape Partnership
  • Local Authority: London Borough of Richmond
  • Artist: Andre Wallace

Summary

Plan Projects was asked to source a sculpture for this prestige residential development in Teddington, South West London. The purpose of the public art was to commemorate the memory of Dr. John Langdon Down, who gave his name to Down's Syndrome and developed pioneering methods for caring for patients suffering from the condition.

Context

The Normansfield Hospital itself is a Victorian building; the site included large areas of public open space including a fine orchard in the grounds of the house. This was identified as the ideal location for the work.

Outcome

Following an invited competition, Andre Wallace was selected to work with the landscape architects to produce a sculptural piece to be incorporated into their proposals for the orchard adjacent to the main hospital building. The piece eventually installed at the site achieves a graceful harmony with its orchard setting and provides a touching reminder of the doctor and the patients who sought his help.