Coffee & Community: Petticoat Lane Pocket Park

Why did The Colombian Coffee Company choose to partner with Aldgate Connect BID on this project?

“We are a social enterprise and we work with communities of coffee farmers and indigenous coffee farmers in Colombia. The idea of creating communities is a core part of our identity.

When we opened at 13 New Goulston Street, the area outside was empty, derelict even. We always thought it would be great if people from the neighbourhood could have a space to enjoy, to connect with other people, to talk and relax within the neighbourhood.

So, when the opportunity arose to get involved with the Petticoat Lane Pocket Park and bring life to this space we took it.”

How does the chosen ‘Macchiato’ design by OUT Architecture facilitate this?

“It’s an interesting design, which really catches the attention of passersby. I like the idea of it being round because it’s a place where people can sit and see the people opposite them – but it’s also wide enough that you can just talk to the people who are next to you, if you prefer. That circle is very representative of communities in a way. I like it.”

How has the response to the Pocket Park been so far?

“Super positive. Whereas before people had to buy something and take it back to the office with them to eat, now they can sit here and enjoy their food in the sunshine.

My favourite part is seeing people interacting with the space in this way. Before, it was so barren, and now it has life.  It’s a fantastic space.”

What are your hopes for this space in the future?

“My hope is for it to become a community space, for both the weekday worker population and for the families who live in the area. We’d love to get to know our neighbours better and I think, thanks to this new space and how inviting the open seating is, we can do that. People are encouraged to sit down, to take a moment to enjoy one of our coffees and to connect. That is what generates community.”