Creative Laboratory 2009/2010
Nationwide Sustainable Housing Awards.
Three students, Sophie Loftus, David Wilkinson and Choi entered this competition to develop new ideas for sustainable suburban living. Instead of trying to change what many people aspire to, they developed an approach which respected the existing condition, but introduced a new layer which re invented land use, energy generation, processes of production and recycling, whist maintaining all the existing perceived benefits of suburbia.
Click on the images on the right to view competition presentations.
Lake Vrynwy, Llanwddyn, Mid Wales, LIFE bog project.
The LIFE bog project has been funded by the EU for 4 years, but will come to an end in 2011. The project aims were to inform people about the fragile nature of the blanket bog, its role in supporting a unique and diverse ecosystem and the contribution it could play in potentially mitigating global warming.
When the project ends it will not be feasible to take people on to the moors to experience the character of the blanket bog. It was therefore decided to create a representation of the blanket bog adjacent to the visitor centre, allowing school groups and visitors to learn about this ecosystem, examine its plants, the management required to maintain the bog and the wildlife that exists in this habitat.
A speculative request for help in designing this facility was sent to the university and it was considered appropriate to offer this as a project through the creative laboratory. Three first year students, Craig Mitchell, Phil Walker and Stuart Walker responded to the request and throughout the spring session developed design ideas in consultation with the client. The scheme is due to be completed in October.
