Bringing Fresh Perspectives to Devonport's Future

As part of the developing Devonport Creative Quarter, architecture students from the University of Plymouth were invited to explore the future potential of Devonport Square and the iconic Devonport Column through a live design brief in partnership with Real Ideas.

The project began with a guided site visit led by Francesca Hawkesworth, giving students the opportunity to experience the spaces between Devonport Guildhall and Market Hall and understand the wider vision for the area. Students also heard from Ed Whitelaw from Real Ideas' Nature & Neighbourhoods team, who shared insights into local Green Communities initiatives and the role of environmental thinking in shaping Devonport's future.

Working directly with a real-world challenge, the students were asked to consider how the public realm around the Column could be transformed through adaptable, inclusive, and creative interventions that encourage activity, connection, and cultural engagement.

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Developing Ideas for a Creative Quarter

Following the visit, students returned to the university to develop a range of concept designs and visualisations. Their proposals explored new possibilities for the space surrounding Devonport Column, demonstrating how thoughtful design can support community use, creative enterprise, biodiversity, and improved public spaces.

The resulting projects showcase a variety of approaches, from enhanced landscaping and green infrastructure to new gathering spaces, cultural activity zones, and improved connections between key heritage assets within Devonport.

Celebrating Creative Thinking

The final presentations were a real highlight of the project. Reviewing the submissions, the Real Ideas team was inspired by the creativity, ambition and care shown by every group in responding to the brief. Each proposal brought a unique perspective, demonstrating thoughtful research, strong design thinking and a genuine understanding of Devonport’s heritage, identity and future potential.

Awards were presented across three key themes - Socio-spatial Insight, Innovative Media & Presentation, and Civic Orientation - alongside a special commendation recognising an especially creative and immersive approach. From flexible community spaces and green infrastructure to new ways of connecting people with Devonport’s heritage, the projects explored exciting possibilities for how Devonport Square could evolve as a vibrant space for creativity, culture and community.

The collaboration was a valuable opportunity for students to work on a live project, while also bringing fresh ideas and perspectives into conversations about the future of Devonport Creative Quarter. We’d like to thank all students and staff involved for their enthusiasm, creativity and commitment throughout the process.

Throughout August, a selection of the proposals will be showcased in the Main Space at Devonport Guildhall as part of our summer programme, alongside Our Story with David Attenborough at Market Hall. Visitors are invited to explore the ideas, share their thoughts and help shape the conversation around how new approaches could be incorporated into the future development of Devonport Square and the wider Creative Quarter.

Project Partners: University of Plymouth, Real Ideas, Devonport Creative Quarter, Nature & Neighbourhoods Programme.