It has been uplifting (and a relief!) to see people enjoying their takeaway coffees and pastries from Ham Yard Hotel’s leafy courtyard just behind Piccadilly Circus.

When we were designing the hotel, complete with 24 apartments and 13 retail shops, we wanted to create a public walkway through a central courtyard with tall oak trees; a calm microclimate in complete contrast to the buzz of Piccadilly Circus.

It is an area where passers-by can pause and enjoy the monumental bronze sculpture by Tony Cragg. The courtyard is a flexible area and has been our playground, taking on different dimensions in all seasons.

During this time, it enables us to adapt and provide a service for people to enjoy in an outdoor space at a safe social distance.

If you would like to bring this idea into your own home, we have created limited edition takeaway cups and lids, wrapped in Kit Kemp’s designs.

The cups are disposable, sustainably sourced and lined with renewable plant-based PLA. Available now on Shop Kit Kemp.