Digital Ipswich

As part of the Digital Ipswich programme for Ipswich Borough Council, we played a central role in delivering two high-profile public realm projects: the Ipswich Portal and the Digital Binoculars. Our work focused on translating ambitious digital ideas into deliverable, approved, and well-integrated civic infrastructure.

For both projects, we worked closely with Ipswich Borough Council to deliver the full planning applications for each installation and location. This included site analysis, location strategy, visualisation, coordination with stakeholders, and the preparation of planning documentation to support installations within sensitive and highly visible public spaces. Our role was to ensure that each intervention responded appropriately to its surroundings, heritage context, and patterns of public use.

The Portal

The Portal, designed by Benediktas Gylys, was conceived as a contemporary civic landmark: a modern equivalent of a historic market cross. Alongside the planning work, we supported site selection, spatial positioning, and public-facing narrative, helping frame the Portal as a place to meet, connect, and represent Ipswich on a global stage. Particular care was taken to ensure that key historic buildings and the character of the town centre were foregrounded within the experience.

Digital Binoculars

In parallel, we delivered the Digital Binoculars, designed by Zubr, as a complementary and more reflective public experience. Our work included identifying suitable viewpoints, shaping the user experience, and developing the interpretive digital content that layers history and storytelling onto real views across the town. The binoculars invite people to pause, explore, and rediscover familiar places through a digital lens.