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Biome Observatory

Part 1 Project 2024
Susan Dean
Anglia Ruskin University | UK
The Biome Observatory site is in a mixed-use island masterplan setting at East Wick, Hackney, London. The project imagines a global facility of international excellence placed within a species rich urban constructed wetland, supporting scientific research into urban wetland ecology, ecosystem conservation, restoration, and habitat management. The Centre offers a cultural resource encouraging social, community and educational engagement, celebrating the benefits of urban wetlands for a water resilient future, within our changing climate.

The design seeks to synthesize architecture, urban space, sustainable and environmental strategies in the urban landscape, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Lee Navigational Canal and Stanstead Millstream waterways. Connecting and strengthening the relationship between our coexisting natural and human environments, "One discovers a natural environment inside the building and through its characteristics, forges an amiable connection with the surrounding nature," (Junya Ishigami). Exploring form and nature as entwined spaces in which to spend time, encouraging the idea of "an immersion in the city, not an escape from it" (Robert Hammond).

Elevated organic walkways meander through the wetland, into buildings and alongside amphitheaters. A biome invites the wetland within, whilst a bridge connects inhabitants to the park, to observe bird migration and the evolving temporal seasonal landscape.


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2024
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