projects
tales of our tracks
Finalist project in a competition for Network Rail and Wandsworth Council.
Tales of Our Tracks is about journeys — where we come from, the paths we take, and the connections we make. This project intended to transform Falcon Road tunnel from a neglected passage into a vibrant community gallery of stories, linking the two unique and lively sides of Battersea. For years, the tunnel has been dark, dripping, and unfriendly, reinforcing division instead of unity. Above it, Clapham Junction station thrives as one of Europe’s busiest rail hubs, full of movement and life. Beneath those tracks, we proposed capturing that energy to make the tunnel a safe, bright, and welcoming space. Our design honours the tunnel’s history. We proposed revealing and repainting the original riveted steel beams and vaulted brick ceilings, celebrating Battersea’s industrial past. We also gave new life to old materials, repurposing steel train tracks from Network Rail’s recycling centre to form curving support structures for colourful murals along the tunnel walls. These screens would shelter pedestrians from dripping water and concealed bird nets will eliminate pigeon issues. A Safe, Bright Path for Everyone Safety and comfort were driving this transformation. Working with Arup’s expert lighting team, we proposed using a layered lighting design to create a warm, well-lit environment. Subtle angled downlights would illuminate vibrant mural panels and pavements, while uplights onto the ceiling would provide general ambient light guiding drivers safely through. Dynamic lights activated by passing trains would add movement, softly rippling through the tunnel creating an interactive space for everyone. Celebrating Community Voices Tales of Our Tracks was meant to be the story of Battersea’s community. Partnering with Katherine Low Settlement and local schools we proposed to host workshops where local young people would work with older generations to co-create stories of Battersea life; past, present and future. The stories will be styled, emphasised and embellished as text before being transformed into unique colourful patterns along tunnel walls. The combined designs of words and colours were designed to represent the community’s diversity, Battersea’s unique “DNA”. Durable Materials, Built to Last Materials were chosen for longevity and resilience. The Vitreous Enamel steel mural panels are durable, easy to clean, and maintain their vibrancy for decades, making them ideal for this high-traffic space. A Legacy of Connection Tales of Our Tracks intended to bring together Battersea’s history and future. It’s more than a passage — it’s a place that connects, celebrates and inspires, woven with the voices and stories of those who call Battersea home. Project team: Arup Facades, Arup Lighting and Kanda Consulting. |