Habitat is an environmental commission by Tania Kovats which has created a sculptural floating garden for Islington’s City Road Basin.
This hidden public space is a watery haven, connected to the busy waterway system of the Regents Canal, but which is increasingly dominated by urban development. Injecting a pocket of green, the thriving garden has been planted to encourage and support the local wildlife. Staking out new territory for green spaces amongst the high-rise, the island also includes sculptural nests based on those of the birds that might be found in the Basin; Moorhens, Herons and Blackbirds. Exaggerated through their size, the nests provide a striking visual focus when the plants are dormant in winter.
During the creation of Habitat, Kovats worked closely with the neighbouring Islington Boat Club, running workshops that involved youth groups in the planting of the garden. These young people also support the ongoing maintenance of the garden, replanting, watering and weeding where necessary.
Habitat was commissioned as part of Secret Garden Project, in partnership with Islington Council.
