Translating Art into the Public Realm
A defining feature of the Queen’s Gardens regeneration is the integration of bespoke artworks that celebrate Hull’s maritime heritage through stone, metal and landscape.
Working closely with
Southern Green Landscape Architects (in collaboration with Conservation Architects’
Purcell)
Hull City Council,
CR Reynolds and artist
Dr Katayoun Dowlatshahi, Hardscape Surfaces played a key role in transforming complex artistic concepts into permanent public realm features. Through a combination of specialist manufacturing techniques, digital production processes and traditional stonemasonry skills, the team translated intricate designs into durable, large-scale landscape elements capable of withstanding generations of public use.
The Scrimshaw Steps
One of the project’s most distinctive features is the amphitheatre-style seating overlooking the gardens. Inspired by Hull’s historic links to the British whaling industry, the sandblasted Crystal Black granite seating and step units incorporates detailed polished scrimshaw-inspired imagery created by Dr Katayoun Dowlatshahi.
Using mechanically produced stencils and specialist sandblast-etching techniques, Hardscape Surfaces engraved intricate illustrations directly into the granite. The artwork references traditional scrimshaw carvings historically produced by sailors during long Arctic voyages, bringing an important aspect of Hull’s maritime history into the contemporary landscape.
The Navigation Artwork
At the heart of Queen’s Gardens sits a major public artwork integrated directly into the
Hardscape-supplied paving. Manufactured using etched and polished Crystal Black granite, Kilkenny Irish Blue limestone, Egerton Holcombe-blend sandstone, brass and stainless-steel inlays, the installation depicts historical navigation charts, shipping routes departing from Queen’s Dock and the Arctic marine species encountered by Hull’s whaling fleets.
Working from the artist’s original designs, Hardscape Surfaces developed detailed production drawings and specialist stencil systems before precision sandblasting and engraving the artwork into the stone. The result is a richly layered feature that combines interpretation, artistry and craftsmanship within the public realm.
Specialist Manufacturing & Craftsmanship
The artworks were manufactured at Hardscape Surfaces’ production facility in Bolton, where CAD technicians, production specialists and skilled stonemasons collaborated throughout the fabrication process.
Advanced sandblast-etching techniques were combined with traditional finishing skills to achieve the intricate detail required by the designs. Careful coordination of stone textures, finishes and metal inlays ensured each component aligned precisely during installation, while maintaining the artistic integrity of the original concept.
The project demonstrates the capability of Hardscape Surfaces to deliver highly bespoke public art interventions that merge technical manufacturing expertise with traditional craftsmanship.
Outcome
Queen’s Gardens showcases how specialist stone manufacturing can become an integral part of public realm storytelling. Through close collaboration with the design team and artist, Hardscape Surfaces successfully translated complex maritime narratives into permanent landscape features that celebrate Hull’s cultural identity. The resulting artworks provide moments of discovery, interpretation and engagement throughout the gardens, ensuring the city’s maritime heritage remains embedded within the landscape for generations to come.
Finished Project Photography: Charlotte Hedgecock Photography & Eden Photography.
