CARPARK OBSERVATORY

Known as the Peckham Observatory, the steel-framed structure rises over the entrance to the rooftop area which houses Frank's Cafe – a Campari bar covered by a red tent-like awning.

At 35 metres long, the new walkway spans the full width of the building. Visitors arriving onto the roof emerge underneath its wooden deck, via the lurid pink stairwell that forms the venue's entrance. The decking and steps are made from single lengths of mangueira hardwood, giving the structure the appearance of a beachside boardwalk.

The metalwork is painted a murky sap green that aims to compliment the car park's original structures, as well as the midnight blue ticketing booth Cooke Fawcett tucked beneath it.

The Bold Tendencies art organisation hosts an art programme in the disused parking bays and roof of the car park from May until September each summer. The roof of the multi-storey car park has become as famous for its spectacular views towards the city as for its site-specific artwork.

With the Peckham Observatory, Cooke Fawcett's aim was to emphasise the often-overlooked views towards the hilly south of the capital. The deck cantilevers over its steel legs at both ends, on one side offering a view out over south London and down to the alley where a queue typically forms to access the venue.

Apart from the interesting cityscape views, the observatory overlooks the carparks temporary art installations commissioned for the space – this year a group of lion sculptures by Ewa Axelrad and a set of poll-mounted wigs by artist Isaac Olvera.

Later, wooden drinks ledges will be installed along the edges of the walkway to provide an ideal people-watching spot.

It is hoped the walkway will also double as a platform for performances and artworks in future summers.

Photography is by Peter Landers.