Views from Kew

In the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, architect John Pawson has just completed a beautiful promenade, more than a bridge or a crossing. It provides the opportunity for visitors to gain a new perspective on the natural pleasures of the Gardens and their watery accompanying elements. Indeed, this is named the Sackler Crossing, after its sponsor. It runs over the Kew lake a few inches above the water, which gives visitors the opportunity to feel close to the element, and yet stay dry. The Kew master plan was, in fact, drawn up by competition- and prize-winning architects, Wilkinson Eyre. The 'Crossing' perfectly complements there the great Palm House, designed in the 19th century by Decimus Burton. It could be that at the Sea of Galilee, the local authority might facilitate the hiring of John Pawson to create another experience on water - that of 'Walking on Water', first demonstrated by don't we know.