Activating public space within a retail environment

Year: 2025
City: Bedford, United Kingdom
Street address: Ampthill Road
Developer: Havercroft Construction
Landscape architect: Gensler/Urban Edge
Application: Park, Street

Vestre was proud to support this development at Interchange Retail Park, Bedford, supplying STRIPES, CODE and PARKLET 2.0 furniture to complement the scheme’s enhanced public realm. The project introduces seven new retail units across three distinctive pods, designed to invigorate the park with improved connectivity, green infrastructure and customer-focused amenities.

Our furniture plays a key role in activating the expanded public spaces, which include seating areas, play features and landscaped green walls. Positioned throughout key pedestrian routes and gathering areas, including the extended public realm near Unit F, these elements help create a welcoming, flexible environment while maintaining clear movement and traffic flow.The contemporary design of the furniture aligns with the project’s architectural language, featuring a palette of dark and light grey cladding, timber detailing and integrated green roofs. Together, these elements contribute to a cohesive, high-quality environment that encourages social interaction, enhances dwell time and supports a vibrant retail experience.