Christopher Tipping

‘Kings Stairs & Turnstone Quay’ – Margate Sea Defences


‘It is of vital importance that this scheme recognises the significance of the local vernacular & influencing historic context to inform the eventual shape, mass, detail & use of the flood defence works and most particularly the proposed stepped revetment.

There is no question that the defence works are necessary & from the outset a response has been developed that quietly responds to & enhances the mantra of form following function. However, this site dictates that the defence works respond directly to a wider context & site specificity as opposed to creating a context of its own.

The position of the revetment is of great importance. This site has seen the worst storm damage in the Town over the centuries and the impact of this has been a constant catalyst for change & renewal, which is a concept to conjure with in itself. (Bettisons Library etc. Sea bathing stairs Kings Steps etc. etc Marine Drive / Imperial Hotel)

The new revetment does not only have a singular role in sea defence but could also be seen - alongside other major projects such as Turner & Dreamland - as a catalyst in the potentially more pivotal role of determining - via its new connectivity & waterfront hub - the future life of Margate as a revived & vibrant Seaside Town & destination.

New architectural, marine & cultural legacies are being currently created in Margate & there is opportunity & responsibility here for us to constantly review the parameters & influence of this particular project continually into the near future.’

A section of the artist statement taken from the ‘Design & Access Statement’ published February 2011