Thames Chase Community Forest is a vital public green space located in one of the most densely populated parts of Greater London. With its expansive woodlands and meadows, the forest offers valuable recreational opportunities and stands as a powerful example of landscape regeneration in a suburban setting.
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Our first project for Forestry England involved designing a series of outdoor interpretation boards that would help visitors better understand the forest’s purpose and the work being done to protect and enhance it. These installations aimed to celebrate the regeneration efforts while also building public awareness of Forestry England’s ongoing projects at Thames Chase.
We were tasked with developing a set of interpretation boards that would educate and inform visitors about the local environment, available facilities, and the broader work of Forestry England within Thames Chase. A key goal was to improve visibility of the forest’s value to the local community and encourage deeper public engagement.
The concept was developed after visiting the site and understanding what visitors would find most engaging. Using colour coding, key statistics, and pull-out highlights makes the information easier to navigate and quicker to understand. This approach helps readers of all ages, from younger audiences to older visitors, engage with the content and share it more easily.
The primary objective was to create an engaging, durable graphic installation suited for outdoor conditions. This included designing a series of interpretation panels that communicated key information through a mix of statistics, visuals, and text. The boards were designed not only to enhance the visitor experience but also to increase understanding of Forestry England’s role in landscape restoration and forest management.
We’re really pleased with the outcome, the images look fantastic and have captured exactly what we were hoping for. Even from the first look, the quality and overall presentation really stood out. After reviewing them in more detail with the team, we’re confident they’ll make a strong impact and represent the project beautifully.
Scott Osborne, Community Ranger
The completed interpretation boards have contributed to a marked increase in local awareness of Thames Chase and its facilities. Visitors now benefit from a richer, more informed experience, while the boards help communicate the vital work being carried out by Forestry England. Overall, the installation has strengthened public appreciation of the forest and its role in supporting both people and nature in an urban environment.
