CRIBBS CANOPY
Artist: Denman+Gould
Client: Baylis Estates Limited
Date: 2025
Location: Cribbs Causeway, Bristol
Structural Engineer: Artura Design
Collaborators: RSPB, Avon Wildlife Trust, Butterfly Conservation Trust, Bumblebee Conservation Trust, Patchway Conservation Group
A striking new installation, Cribbs Canopy, has emerged at Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, where artist-designers Denman+Gould have transformed a sustainable urban drainage system (SUDS) into a vibrant, multi-layered habitat for both people and wildlife.
Amidst the hum of traffic and the bustle of shoppers, the song of skylarks, goldfinches, wrens, blackbirds, and sparrows rises — a quiet insistence of the natural world.
This once-urbanised space, originally conceived as a drainage area for new development, has become a haven for wildlife. Flag irises, waterlilies, knapweed, hazel, and guelder rose now thrive here, planted with care and intention.
Produced by Ginkgo Projects and commissioned by Baylis Estates Ltd. as part of their wider leisure and retail development in north Bristol, Cribbs Canopy comprises a series of site-specific artworks that support biodiversity and deepen appreciation of this naturalised greenspace. Set within meadow planting, a newly created pond, and existing trees, the work invites visitors to experience the richness of urban nature.
Working closely with ecological experts and local conservation groups including the RSPB, Avon Wildlife Trust, and Butterfly Conservation Trust, Denman+Gould have developed a collection of sculptural elements designed to support British native species. The centrepiece is a towering nest-like form inspired by organic geometries found in nature. Clad in locally sourced cedar shingles, it contains handcrafted boxes offering shelter and nesting opportunities for bats, birds, bees, butterflies and moths.
Using ethical materials such as Robinia timber and English oak, the project blends craftsmanship with environmental function. Every aspect has been developed with wildlife in mind, from micro-habitats for invertebrates to corridors for birds and pollinators.
The design also responds to the site’s existing ecology, extending the habitat value of mature trees across the new landscape. In consultation with experts, the artists have embedded nesting opportunities for at-risk bird species such as sparrows and starlings, whose populations are facing colossal declines across the UK.
Cribbs Canoy reflects both Ginkgo Projects and Denman+Gould’s commitment to public and place-based art that fosters deeper connection to environment and community. Built in Denman+Gould’s Dorset studio, a former chapel beneath Scots Pines and oaks, the installation is the duo’s largest to date.
Cribbs Canopy will be a lasting landmark within the Cribbs Causeway development, demonstrating how public art can shape inclusive, biodiverse and beautiful spaces for future generations.
Behind the Scenes at Denman+Gould’s studio
Watch Denman+Gould build their largest sculpture to date inside their Dorset studio, a converted chapel nestled beneath Scots Pines and Oak trees.
With thanks to Avon Wildlife Trust, Bristol Swifts, Bumblebee Conservation, the Butterfly Conservation Trust, RSPB and Patchway Conservation Group for their input and partnerships and help in the development of this work.
Site 20 is part of Baylis Estates’ new mixed leisure and retail development at Cribbs Causeway. Cribbs Canopy is located adjacent to Sytner Land Rover, Merlin Rd, Patchway, Bristol BS10 7SR
What3Words: https://w3w.co/moth.chief.bits
Denman+Gould
The practice of Denman + Gould is deeply informed by the use of place-specific materials, embedding these in work that communicates thoughtful, expressive craftsmanship and making techniques.
https://www.denmangould.com/