Shredenhams - Design

The high street as we once knew it is on the way out. These central and once essential spaces are now neglected and disused. At Wheelscape we believe that this needs to be addressed, and one way of doing so is by breathing new life and new purpose into these spaces.

Debenhams’ former Bristol store had sat empty for some time. When Campus Skateboarding were approached by the building owners about a potential collaboration and takeover of the space, they came to us to help communicate that vision. We created some initial 3D concepts of how the space could be reimagined, which helped secure the agreement between Campus and Debenhams. 

With a focus on space and interaction, we wanted to make the most functional skate space possible with a tight budget and tighter schedule. We now regularly consult on the skateable elements of the space, providing 3D visuals and technical drawings, which have been CNC cut by fellow Bristol business Hello Blue. Andre from Campus carried out the build with support from our lead designer.

We knew the space needed to feature the skatepark staples: a mellow hip (with extra long landing bank); an array of modular blocks (to move around at your will); and a selection of flat bars including the wavy rail for added gnar.

Scroll down for some absolute scenes from the big opening night where the Bristol scene was out en masse (Photography by Tom Sparey), the design process, and a glimpse of what the place looked like before…

This is what the place looked like before…

And here are some of the Wheelscape renders of the space that helped to sell in the idea and make this vision a reality.