Parkland Walk Habitats & Educational Centre
Decades of data indicate a distressing decline in the population of the UK's invaluable wildlife. Seeking to address this pressing issue, this design project delves into the intricate web of communication between humans and non-human entities within London's Urban Forest. By investigating this complex relationship, the project aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the interdependence of these intertwined ecosystems, offering innovative solutions to support the restoration and preservation of biodiversity in the urban environment.
The building seamlessly integrates the raw materials sourced from the forest and artfully responds to its multi-layered terrain. Serving as a poetic extension of the surrounding landscape, the design not only pays homage to the inherent beauty of the forest but also embraces its inherent qualities, creating a captivating and immersive environment that blurs the boundaries between the built and natural realms.
This project explores a new trajectory for London's future by envisioning the creation of an innovative educational center and a series of thoughtfully designed habitats. With a focus on promoting sustainable practices, fostering environmental stewardship, and nurturing a deeper connection between humans and their surroundings, this endeavour sets the stage for a transformative approach to urban development. By integrating education, ecological preservation, and community engagement, this project aims to shape a future for London that is both inspiring and resilient.
Through interviews with the local community and collaboration with scientists from the Zoological Society of London, this project interprets a diverse range of data on both human and non-human entities. By employing an alternative design language, the project encapsulates these insights, fostering a profound understanding of the intricate relationships between people and the natural world. This interdisciplinary approach enriches the project, enabling innovative solutions that resonate with both humans and the broader ecosystem.
The project presents a multifaceted understanding of the heterogeneous conditions of Parkland Walk. Through attempting to reconcile human and nature interest along an under utilised forest edge, the architecture seeks to positively interfere with natural contributors to the forest, thus affecting its biotic linkages.
The architecture will propose a new, alternative model of habitations within the urban fabric of London. Based on the cradle to cradle principle, the scheme is demountable and sits upon a series of boulders that also form habitats for many species.
The building's constant metamorphosis in response to the forest environment creates a renewed educational vision for Highgate while celebrating growth and tranquillity.
Work completed in Unit 18 at the Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL - led by tutors Ricardo De Ostos & Isaie Bloch.