Christopher Wright
Gr ad u at e La n d s c a p e A rc h i te c t
I’m an analytical and forward thinking individual with high personal and professional aspirations. At this early stage in my career I have begun to develop a considered and inquisitive approach to design and thrive on broadening my technical and creative understandings of Landscape Architecture. I see my future role within the profession working as part of multidisciplinary team producing intelligent design, responding to increasingly important social and environmental pressures.
Interests Adventure // Architecture // Athletics // Environmental Psychology Graphic Design // Innovation // Physics // Photography // Team Sports
Pe r s o n a l S t r e n g t h s Written and Verbal Communication // Team contribution // Aspiring Creative // Adaptable // Reliable
Aw a r d s The Evening Telegraph ‘Outstanding Sporting Achievement’ award 5000m final at national track & Field champs. in London Olympic Stadium Ranked 1st in the country for 10km for my respective age group Maths grade in the top 5% of the country, earning a place on the NAGTY GOAL programme for gifted & talented youth.
(2009) (summer 2012) (2009) (2008 - 2010)
Education PG Dip Landscape Architecture BA(hons) Landscape Architecture First Class Honours First Class Honours Dissertation 3 x A Levels = B C C 10 x GCSEs = A* - B
Leeds Beckett University (2014 - summer 2015) Leeds Metropolitan University (2010 - 2013) Thomas Deacon Academy (2010) Thomas Deacon Academy (2008)
Experience Developed a technical minded approach to landscape architecture working Assistant Landscape Architect within a dynamic, fast paced team environment on high profile, quality urban Townshend Landscape Architects public realm projects with an emphasis on creating spaces that respond to (Augusts 2013 - August 2014) their local distinctiveness and community activation. Broadened my experience within the profession through assisting in the Assistant Landscape Architect production of a comprehensive LVIA for a large scale mine proposal in the Estell Warren Landscape Architecture North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Collaborated in the designs of rural (September 2014 - June 2015) park landscapes and residential planting schemes. Representative on the Landscape Institute Yorkshire and Humber Branch Landscape Institute Student Rep. (2012 - 2013) Leeds Met. Uni. Cross Country Captain (2012 - 2013) Team Cambridgeshire Track & Field Captain (2010)
Design Strengths Creative Technical Approach // Public Realm Design // Masterplanning People - Place Interrelations // Graphic Exploration
Software Skills Adobe InDesign // Adobe Photoshop // AutoCAD // Google SketchUp KeySCAPE // CS Artisan // MS Office
Landscape Institute Award in recognition of an outstanding final design (2013)
Coastal settlements are extremely diverse. They include industrial cities, fishing ports, ‘set piece’ resorts and former mining communities. In addition to this diversity of heritage and settlement type, there is huge diversity of fortune, with some thriving, whilst others continue to struggle. Despite their diversity, there are a number of issues which tend to be shared by coastal towns, and which often combine to create social and economic deprivation, some of which are: - Decline in visitor numbers - Geographic isolation - Out-dated market - Ageing population - Long term decline/negative perceptions - Consequences of climate change In response, a number of key drivers for the successful physical, social and economic regeneration of coastal towns have been identified (English Heritage/October 2007): - Improved transport links - Investment in high quality public realm - Dynamic visitor offer - Clear target markets - Economic diversification - New coastal leisure activities - The surrounding natural environment Skegness is a coastal town that faces most, if not all, of these issues. My major design module explores the role that the Skegness Foreshore can play in becoming a driver for change within the town. The proposal aims at realigning Skegness’ foreshore with the current and future demands associated with environmental and public needs. The design looks at celebrating Skegness’ locality and drawing upon its under utilised assets to create a vibrant and resilient new vision for the adrift town.
Coastal Resilience An Ecological Coastline
“Ecological Realignment of the Skegness Foreshore”
Vision “To achieve coastal resilience through ecologically embodied interventions”. Concept To celebrate Skegness’ coastal ecology through the use of existing site topography , the restoration of important coastal habitats and realignment of sea defences in order to: - Create a coherent, unifying character. - Improve coastal resilience and stabilise the shoreline through natural processes. - Create a bold new vision for Skegness. Brief The design brief for the project was founded on seven key principles outlined within East Lindsey District Council’s development strategy for the Skegness Foreshore (2012). The seven principles are: - Broadened offer - Improved quality - Enhanced public realm - Multiple visits - Provision of open space - Improved access - Realising the potential of the foreshore’s natural assets
Coastal Resilience An Ecological Coastline
Activate
Network
Realignment
Green Infrastructure
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Pier
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Public Core
Community Centre
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Coastal Resilience An Ecological Coastline
Salt Marsh
Culture Centre
Lagoons
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“Currently the foreshore functions as a series of individually boxed destinations, independent in their relationship to one another. The proposed design will create a destination of the foreshore, playing host to a network of
unifying activities�
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Public Core The proposed design for the public core combines natural dynamics and environmental services with the cultural and leisure requirements associated with modern day coastal towns. The existing concrete sea wall will be replaced by softer landscape solutions to coastal protection in order to resolve the disconnect between the town and beach , caused by the wall. The proposal envisions extending the width of the beach, providing additional room for the sea to expand into during high storm surges and replacing the sea wall with a series of layered reinforced dunes to dissipate wave energy and provide a wider ‘soft’ buffer between the town and sea. Human function is inserted within the dunes via a raised podium deck, constructed on ‘stilts’, that integrates into the dunes allowing them to continue underneath the pedestrian areas and retain their connection to the beach. During storm surges, any breaches of sea water will flow underneath the podium rather than on its surface, minimising the risk of damage caused by storms and allowing the space to remain accessible. The raised podium allows the dunes to continuously form and remain dynamic, independent of the podium.
Coastal Resilience An Ecological Coastline
A
B
Podium Landscape (A) and conventional hard landscape techniques (B)
Rear Dune
Secondary Dune
SECONDARY VEGETATION ZONE
Podium
Primary Dune
PRIMARY VEGETATION ZONE
Timber Crib Retaining Wall
SECONDARY VEGETATION ZONE
Promenade
Embryo Dune
PRIMARY VEGETATION ZONE
Section through Public Core
Culture Centre
Podium Events Space Foreshore Gateway
Timber Crib Retaining Wall
Foreshore Gateway Primary Dune Beach Arena
Timber Promenade Rear Dune
Beach Plaza
Embryo Dune
Coastal Resilience An Ecological Coastline
The Cities Alive project was broken down into two design scales, the first of which outlines the strategic framework encompassing the entire ‘Port City’ development site (A large zone in the harbour area of Amsterdam designated for development). The second design scale focuses on creating a response at site level, providing more detail on one of the residential areas outlined in the strategic framework. The project is based around principles outlined in Arup’s ‘Cities Alive’ document and draws upon solutions referenced in the document to improve the sustainability credentials of the proposed design responses.
Cities Alive Sustainable Cities
Port City A key driver for the strategic framework is to create a balance between residential, commerce and green space. Residential areas are evenly distributed throughout the ‘Port City’ region alongside adjacent commercial zones and green corridors acting as connections between. It is intended that these zones are mixed use while primarily functioning as one or the other. The eastern and western areas of the framework are knitted together through a green corridor, which stems from existing green infrastructure and connects with Westergasfabriek. The proposed green infrastructure will form a green pedestrian corridor, wetlands and a waters edge public park. They will act as flood mitigation and water treatment zones, providing flexible and sustainable water management in the form of swales and flood-able green space.
Residential Commercial Promenade Leisure Wetlands Public park Green corridor Existing functions Pedestrian infrastructure Water infrastructure Vehicular infrastructure Public transport Public transport hubs
Cities Alive Port City Design Strategy
SPORTS AND EVENTS ARENA
WATERFRONT LEISURE/RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT
AMSTERDAM WETLAND CENTRE COMMERCIAL/RESTAURANTS/BARS
ECO-BUSINESS DISTRICT
HAVENBURG
PORT CITY CENTRAL HUB/RETAIL SuDS VILLAGE
PROMENADE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE CORRIDOR
COURT BLOCKS DIJKPARK
RI
NG
RO
AD
RESIDENTIAL
RA
WESTERGASFABRIEK
Built Form Strategy
I LW
AY
Candy Bar Place Candy Bar Place is a proposal for a lively, diverse and balanced community neighbourhood. The urban fabric of the neighbourhood is formed by a series of ‘candy bars’, orientated to improve legibility throughout the public realm, providing a variation of living quarters; apartment blocks, terraced streets and low rise flats. The built form is knitted together by a coherent public realm, with variation expressed in a sequence of connecting green courtyards, community homezones and garden streets. Key pedestrian routes radiate from public spaces, providing a safe and attractive network between them. Principles from the ‘Cities Alive’ document produced by Arup have been adopted within the design in the form of:
- Green Infrastructure Corridors - SUDs Streets - Green and Biodiverse Roofs - Green Walls - A Water Square - Rain Gardens
Cities Alive
Embracing Sustainability Principles
CONTEXTUAL VEHICULAR NETWORK
SITE VEHICULAR NETWORK
CONTEXTUAL PEDESTRIAN NETWORK
SITE PEDESTRIAN NETWORK
Cities Alive
Embracing Sustainability Principles
Existing Main Road Existing Railway Line Proposed Tram Route
Primary Circulation Street Access
Pedestrian Highway Links to wider network Green Corridor
North - South Connection Primary Inner development network Green Corridor
North - South Section
East - West Section
Cities Alive
Embracing Sustainability Principles
Community Streets
Green Streets
Southbank Park is a contemporary green space in the heart of Leeds. The park is a bold and iconic space inspired by Leeds’ rich industrial past and is a celebration of the cities waterways. Southbank Park is the culmination of strong connectivity and immersive landscape treats, providing a diverse city culture with an equally diverse array of experiences. Southbank Park is a landscape of discovery.
Urban Green Southbank Park
“Something small
has found sanctuary in
something big�
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Access
Improved accessibility
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Connectivity
Strengthen North - South connections
The proposal for Southbank Park provides an integral solution in connecting Northern and Southern Leeds with an aim of bringing the Southern boroughs closer to the City Centre. The park also provides good connectivity to the proposed High Speed Railway West of the park and residential accommodation to the East. A multitude of spaces, varying in scale, provide a rich landscape experience.
Urban Green Southbank Park
Hortus Conclusus
Intimate residential gardens
Blue Infrastructure Active waterfront
“ som e t hin g s m a l l ha s fo und sanc t u a r y i n s o m e t hin g b ig � Peter Zumthor
• Alnus Glutinosa • Cornus sanguinea, Betula pubescens • Nymphaea alba, Pontederia cordata, Butomus umbellatus, Carex acutiformis, Carex pseudocyperus, Juncus effusus • Iris pseudacorus, Typha latifolia, Schoenoplectus lacustris, Acorus calamus • Digitalis purpurea, Lythrum salicaria, Foeniculum vulgare, Centranthus ruber, Achillea millefolium, Campanula persicifolia •
Native Perennials
Waterfront Planting Plan - Filtration biotopes use planting to cleanse surface water runoff
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23.81
Urban Green Southbank Park
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Filtration Biotopes
Pond Margins
Winter Borders
Tree Avenue
Designed as a flood alleviation scheme, the waterfront will act as both a retention pool and filtering system in order to improve the quality of the River Aire. Three embankments and vegetated swales (1) filter the river water as it flows into a retention pool (2), which will then be suitable for recycling for use in the surrounding apartment buildings.
“ fre e d om of m ove m e n t”
A series of platforms step down from the main promenade to the water’s edge
(3) Level Change
(1)
(2)
(3) Section through waterfront biotope
The following work was produced during my employment with Townshend Landscape Architects (2013 - 2014) and Estell Warren Landscape Architecture (2014 - 2015). The projects I was involved with ranged from high end public realm to restoration and landscape and visual impact assessments.
Professional Practice 2013 - 2015
The final proposal for Jersey International Finance Centre includes a new pedestrian highway, mounded public park and accompanying public realm. The development is situated above a multi storey car park, as such detailing the design required specific considerations regarding build up. I was involved in producing a complete Stage E detailed technical design package of all of the various design elements.
Design Detail Jersey International Finance Centre
Marischal Square is a proposal for a new mixed use development in Aberdeen, including a new public square and courtyard gardens. The concept for the square is to create a flexible space with a formal layout that compliments the characterful architecture surrounding the square. I was involved in creating the DAS and detailed design proposal drawings for the project.
Public Realm Marischal Square, Aberdeen
4
TOWNSHEND LANDSCAPE ARC
n
Westfield Phase 2 development is a large scale masterplan proposal to extend the existing shopping centre in Shepherds Bush, London. The masterplan consists of a large podium courtyard for a series of new residential blocks, a flexible public square and a network of pedestrian streets. A linear park has been proposed adjacent to an existing above ground rail line, it is proposed that the archways will be converted into retail units, with the linear park serving as spill out, space to play, relax and socialise.
Public Realm Westfield Phase 2, Shepherds Bush
Private Garden Private Garden
Edge Edge
4 SemilandsCape MasteRplan pRoposals Private/ Private Garden Edge Semi Private/ Communal Garden Private Garden Edge Communal Garden
4.10
CoURtyaRd GaRden
defensible amenity will also be provided to the ground level residential units, this will give these units a private area which could be used for seating or containerised planting. screening between each external private space will give each space a sense of privacy. evergreen planting will define the back edge of the private spaces where they adjoin the communal garden. this will help to contain the private spaces, allowing them to be used by young children to play.
private garden edge
landscape edge
Communal garden
private garden edge
landscape edge
Communal garden
Private Garden
53 53
Edge
Semi Private/ Communal Garden
Edge
Private Garden
The project involved designing a central courtyard for a new residential development in Streatham Hill, London. The design picks up strong architectural features to form a geometric layout that creates a park like feel within the courtyard. The design provides space for play, leisure and relaxation with dense planting and a water feature creating a sense of seclusion. I was involved in creating the initial design concept and communicating the proposal in a Stage C design document.
Residential Streatham Hill, London
Based in Castleford, this project comprised of an ex-landfill site in need of restoration to mitigate the effects of past uses and to align the site with the local landscape character. The proposal involved specifying a variety of plant mixes suitable for the area and the proposed landscape habitats, including shrub mixes, grassland and plant mixes suitable for wetland conditions. I was involved in the creation of restoration drawings and specification for the soft landscape.
Restoration Castleford, West Yorkshire
13 12
KEY
11 10
Dik
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Extent of works
Lin
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Existing riverside vegetation retained
A er
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Existing woodland
Stay Wires
Water Pipe
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Proposed native species scrub mix
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Proposed native species hedgerow with hedgerow trees
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Proposed neutral grassland seed mix (mown once per annum)
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Gate
Proposed neutral grassland with Rubus fruticosus seed mix (not cut)
10.0 Bridg
A
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Proposed wetland seed mix
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Bridg
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Access retained to gas valve compound
Phase 1 Landfill 227 13.
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Bridg
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Unused Gate
426700
Line Water
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Medium pressure gas main (Northern Gas) 17
High pressure gas main (Northern Gas)
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Section line (refer to drawing 2335-04 for cross sections)
D'
A
pe
Pi on
15 14
High pressure gas main (EON) ('A' denotes above ground main on supports)
A
17 1 1 6 145 13 12
A
C
Proposed surface water outfall
10 11 12 13 14 15 1 176
17
Wat
Gate
Disused railway embankment
17 16 15 14 13 2 1 1 1
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9
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Existing wetland retained
A
Phase 2 Lowfields
Gate
Pond / wetland ('R' denotes proposed surface water retention pond)
/
/
16.5
17.0
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Proposed native broadleaf woodland edge planting mix
C'
Gas Valve Compound
426800
A' A
rete
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Co orts
pp
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11 er
Proposed contours (at 0.5m intervals)
9 10 11
EP
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at
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Proposed capping layer extents
Existing riverside vegetation retained
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Existing contours (at 0.5m intervals)
Disused railway bridge
Lin Dike
426600
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426900
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Pipe
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Line
Water
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Phase 3 Greenlane Landfill
Revision. 17 16
Estell Warren
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426500
Landscape Architecture
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SV
5B Chevin Mill Leeds Road Otley LS21 1BT Tel: 01943 464384 email: mail@estellwarren.co.uk www.estellwarren.co.uk
SV
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12 11
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Hickson Castleford - Waste Management Area Closure Plan
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Pipe
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Gate BT
Drawing Title:
Restoration Proposals Gate
426400
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Gate SV WO
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Pipe
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Drawing Number:
Revision:
2335.03
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File: EW_2335_02-03 & 04.dwg, Printed: 20/03/2015, Last saved by:Mike
Pipe
Ga
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Gate
GV
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Gate
Scale:
Date:
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March 2015
Drawn:
Checked:
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SW
This drawing is copyright and should not be used, amended or reproduced without written consent.
Cumulative Impact Assessment As part of a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment for a major new mine proposal in The North Yorkshire Moors, a cumulative impact study was undertaken to determine the visual effects of the proposal’s winding towers on the surrounding national leisure routes and major roads. I was involved in the production of a series of drawings highlighting the areas along the effected routes that had direct views towards the proposed winding towers. The drawings were informed by 3d modelling and the creation of Zones of Theoretical Visibility which were refined further through field study work.
LV I A
The North Yorkshire Moors
see photomontage 2323.LCP PM09 Part 3, Appendix 12.11
506000N 503000N
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18
15 16
505000N 10
502000N
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11
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14
12 9
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North York Moors National Park
501000N
504000N 8 7
1
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503000N 500000N 6
5 502000N 4
499000N 3 2 501000N
Tocketts Lythe winding tower ZTV
(underline denotes photomontage location) (see Part 5, Appendix 22.2)
York Potash Project Cumulative Landscape & Visual Assessment
Drawing Title:
Sequential Receptor Assessment Coast to Coast Walk (2 of 4)
Key Plan:
Drawing Number: 2327.SEQ.C2CW.02 Revision: 00 Scale: 1:25,000 @ A3 Date: September 2014
480000E
(see Part 5, Appendix 22.3)
Representative viewpoints
Project:
479000E
Lady Cross Plantation winding tower ZTV Lockwood Beck winding tower ZTV
478000E
1
Landscape Architecture
Minehead winding towers ZTV
Minehead and Lady Cross winding towers ZTV Minehead ,Lady Cross and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Lady Cross and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Minehead and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Tocketts Lythe and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Minehead and Tocketts Lythe winding towers ZTV
477000E
Drawn: CW Checked: SW
Estell Warren
Boulby Mine dryer stack ZTV
Sections of route with views to proposed sites Sections of route with filtered views to proposed sites Table reference number
476000E
Scale: 1:25,000 @ A3 Date: September 2014
Estell Warren Ltd 5b Chevin Mill Leeds Road Otley LS21 1BT Tel: 01943 464384 Email: mail@estellwarren.co.uk Web: www.estellwarren.co.uk
RAF Flyingdales SSPA radar ZTV
475000E
Drawing Number: 2327.SEQ.C2CW.01 Revision: 00
Proposed Bank Field wind farm ZTV
North York Moors National Park boundary Coast to Coast walk
Sequential Receptor Assessment Coast to Coast Walk (1 of 4)
474000E
Key Plan:
York Potash Project Cumulative Landscape & Visual Assessment
473000E
472000E
470000E
Tocketts Lythe winding tower ZTV
Drawing Title:
469000E
Lady Cross Plantation winding tower ZTV Lockwood Beck winding tower ZTV
Project:
468000E
Minehead winding towers ZTV
Minehead and Lady Cross winding towers ZTV Minehead ,Lady Cross and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Lady Cross and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Minehead and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Tocketts Lythe and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Minehead and Tocketts Lythe winding towers ZTV
467000E
Boulby Mine dryer stack ZTV
466000E
(underline denotes photomontage location) (see Part 5, Appendix 22.2)
Proposed Bank Field wind farm ZTV RAF Flyingdales SSPA radar ZTV
465000E
(see Part 5, Appendix 22.3)
Representative viewpoints
464000E
1
Sections of route with views to proposed sites Sections of route with filtered views to proposed sites Table reference number
463000E
462000E
461000E North York Moors National Park boundary Coast to Coast walk
Drawn: CW Checked: SW
Estell Warren Ltd 5b Chevin Mill Leeds Road Otley LS21 1BT Tel: 01943 464384 Email: mail@estellwarren.co.uk Web: www.estellwarren.co.uk
Estell Warren
Landscape Architecture
508000N 38 37 36
506000N
Egton Bridge
507000N
see photomontage 2323.LCP PM06 Part 3, Appendix 12.11 20
35
34
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505000N
Grosmont
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see photomontage 2323.LCP PM01 Part 3, Appendix 12.11 25
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see photomontage 2307.MH PM09 Part 2, Appendix 12.6
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506000N
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505000N
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504000N
503000N
1
(see Part 5, Appendix 22.3)
Representative viewpoints
(underline denotes photomontage location) (see Part 5, Appendix 22.2)
Tocketts Lythe winding tower ZTV
Project:
York Potash Project Cumulative Landscape & Visual Assessment
Drawing Title:
Sequential Receptor Assessment Coast to Coast Walk (4 of 4)
Drawing Number: 2327.SEQ.C2CW.04 Revision: 00 Scale: 1:25,000 @ A3 Date: September 2014
500000E
Landscape Architecture
Lady Cross Plantation winding tower ZTV Lockwood Beck winding tower ZTV
499000E
Drawn: CW Checked: SW
Estell Warren
Minehead winding towers ZTV
498000E
Scale: 1:25,000 @ A3 Date: September 2014
Estell Warren Ltd 5b Chevin Mill Leeds Road Otley LS21 1BT Tel: 01943 464384 Email: mail@estellwarren.co.uk Web: www.estellwarren.co.uk
Boulby Mine dryer stack ZTV
Minehead and Lady Cross winding towers ZTV Minehead ,Lady Cross and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Lady Cross and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Minehead and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Tocketts Lythe and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Minehead and Tocketts Lythe winding towers ZTV
497000E
Drawing Number: 2327.SEQ.C2CW.03 Revision: 00
Sections of route with views to proposed sites Sections of route with filtered views to proposed sites Table reference number
496000E
Sequential Receptor Assessment Coast to Coast Walk (3 of 4)
Proposed Bank Field wind farm ZTV RAF Flyingdales SSPA radar ZTV
495000E
North York Moors National Park boundary Coast to Coast walk
494000E
Key Plan:
493000E
492000E
York Potash Project Cumulative Landscape & Visual Assessment
490000E
Tocketts Lythe winding tower ZTV
Drawing Title:
489000E
Lady Cross Plantation winding tower ZTV Lockwood Beck winding tower ZTV
Project:
488000E
Minehead winding towers ZTV
Minehead and Lady Cross winding towers ZTV Minehead ,Lady Cross and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Lady Cross and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Minehead and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Tocketts Lythe and Lockwood Beck winding towers ZTV Minehead and Tocketts Lythe winding towers ZTV
487000E
(underline denotes photomontage location) (see Part 5, Appendix 22.2)
Boulby Mine dryer stack ZTV
486000E
Representative viewpoints
Proposed Bank Field wind farm ZTV RAF Flyingdales SSPA radar ZTV
485000E
(see Part 5, Appendix 22.3)
484000E
Sections of route with views to proposed sites Sections of route with filtered views to proposed sites Table reference number
483000E
482000E North York Moors National Park boundary Coast to Coast walk
1
Robin Hood's Bay see photomontage 2307.MH PM10 Part 2, Appendix 12.6
Drawn: CW Checked: SW
Key Plan:
Estell Warren Ltd 5b Chevin Mill Leeds Road Otley LS21 1BT Tel: 01943 464384 Email: mail@estellwarren.co.uk Web: www.estellwarren.co.uk
Estell Warren
Landscape Architecture
This final chapter includes written extracts from report work produced throughout my studies in landscape architecture. The first is an article written in reflection of landscape architect Gilles Clement and how his ideologies may be interpreted as possessing post modern influences. The second is the concluding chapter of a critical study I wrote posing the question ‘how can environmental psychology influence urban regeneration?’
Wr i t t e n E x t r a c t s
“A picture speaks
a thousand words,
but a thousand good words paint infinite pictures�
GILLES CLEMENT LE JARDINIERE FRANCAIS
An article on Postmodernism and why world renowned 'gardener', Gilles Clement, is considered a postmodernist designer.
P
overriding concept is how humans are a major influence on the environment, “in any environment… there are interrelations among living things – plants, animals and humans” (G. Clément 2006 pg.90), and how it is important “to foster and achieve an equilibrium in which no one species has the upper hand” (G. Clément 2006 pg.90). These notions perceive how reality is subject to human intervention, thus begin to categorise Clement as a postmodernist. In an era described as “incredulity to all metanarratives” (Jean-
ostmodernism is a term used to describe a range of conceptual
François Lyotard) Gilles Clement chose neither to accept nor reject
ideologies, risen in opposition of the modernist movement that
past truths, but to direct them in such a way as to work in harmony
shaped, not only the 19th and 20th century, but the society
alongside nature’s prowess.
we see today. To understand the context of postmodernism, it is important to understand the frameworks that defined the
Clement is described as “a hard man to pin down” 1, maybe due
‘Modern Era’. Throughout this period, we as humans were driven
to his modest and “unassuming” 1 nature. This can be seen in his
by knowledge and the need to objectively define the world that
simple description of his profession; “a gardener” 1. Not just a
we live in. Ideologies often associated with modernism are those
designer, Gilles writes popular fables, novels and philosophical
such as realism, structuralism and materialism. Ultimately, these
reflections. His interests span further into ecology, botany and
are notions independent of human observation. Postmodernism
also entomology. Clement studied agronomy along with landscape
then, is the approach in which we consider reality as a phenomenon
design at university and at such an early stage of his career he was
subjective to an individual. It considers ways in which social
already defending “biological gardening” 1. From Clements diverse
dynamics affect human conceptualization of knowledge. This
studies of nature it is easy to understand how his past education
movement encompasses theories such as idealism, relativism and
is influencing his design approach today, “not nature unspoiled by
scepticism. In a world where knowledge was beginning to diminish
man, but partnership” 1. Defined as a life changing moment, Gilles
human significance, postmodernism rose to once again give
spent two days in a coma after gardening with his father and getting
meaning to our existence.
a highly toxic rose spray into an open wound. This drove Gilles to escape the highly regimented gardening his father used and begin
Wr i t t e n E x t r a c t s Gilles Clement, Le Jardinière Francais
Gilles Clement is a French landscape architect, considered to be
a less invasive approach. This event is almost a metaphor of why
part of the postmodernist era. Through his approach to design,
postmodernism arose, people were reacting to the controlled and
Clement encompasses postmodernist philosophies, whether
regimented ideologies of modernism and wanted to experience
intentional or not. His desire to observe beauty lies not with a
life on a more personal and interactive scale. In 1997 Clement was
need to find an objective definition, but to gently craft a landscape
able to purchase land he sought refuge as a child and transformed
that has a relationship with both the site and observers. Clements
the clearing into La Valle, “one of France’s most admired gardens”
1. This was the beginning of Clements first influential theory “The
photographs of Earth from space. The Planetary Garden is an
he no longer sees humans as an entity independent of the Earths
Moving Garden”.
imagination of extending the care and devotion lavished on home
workings, but a key component in how we visualise and experience
gardens to the planet as a whole. It highlights the importance of
nature.
“With time, the design of the garden will evolve, it depends on the
ecological diversity and how existence so far has had a damaging
person who maintains it and is not the result of a plan drawn at the
affect. It is a much more directed theory than the moving Garden
After understanding Clements approaches, ideologies and
office” 2. This very much defines the concept of a moving garden.
but encompasses the key principle of working alongside nature
rationale to landscape design it is easy to see how many would
The gardens design is in response to not just the site, but the
without destroying diversity, “making possible the existence of
consider him a postmodernist. His theories question the science
processes that happen within the space. Already there is a strong
the garden” (The Earth) “and hence the gardener.” 3 (Humans). This
of the modern era directly; all three of Clements concepts express
correlation between Clements theory and postmodernism. There
closely resembles a postmodernist ideology as it places the role of
the importance of the human race on not just a small scale, but the
is a strong sense of individual subjectivity to the outcome of the
the gardener into a wider context. This theory implies we play an
world’s ecosystem. Some state that postmodernism isn’t a period in
garden, as it will almost surely be different for each person who
important role in the Earths ecosystem rather than the objective
its own right, but a transition from one to another. We can only hope
maintains the garden. Clement observes “watching wasteland, I
notions, independent of humans, expressed throughout the
this transition leads to an acknowledgement of our own ignorance
am not only fascinated by the energy of nature’s reclamation, I also
modern era.
towards the devastating effects our existence is currently having
want to know how to insert myself in the midst of this powerful
on the planet we inhabit. After all, what use is a gardener if there
flow” 1. It clearly shows the respect he has for nature but also the
Most recently Clement has been developing another concept
desire Clement feels to be part of this process, almost a yearning
called “The Third Landscape”. He was influenced by highly managed
to feel significant in this complex ecosystem. It was very much a
farm land, south of Paris, to seek abandoned spaces “still capable
widely felt emotion at the end of the modern era, people wanted to
of spontaneous revival...as La Vallee once was” 1. These neglected
feel important on this vast planet and not a burden on its resources.
spaces can be important areas for accumulating biodiversity;
The moment Gilles has chosen to incorporate himself within the
they are “Earths genetic reservoir” 4. As highlighted in Clements
process of succession is when spontaneous growth includes all
‘The Chandelier’, flowering weeds, grasses, insects and man-made
the elements usually found in a garden. “The gardener’s role then
objects such as various litter can be found in the Third Landscape.
is to guide and enrich in sympathy with natural processes” 1. One of
They all belong to a single ecosystem, both man and nature.
is no garden?
Clements most famous examples of a moving garden is at the Parc Andre-Citroen. It is the park staff who decides where paths are to
The theory expresses how we as humans have forced ourselves
be mown each year, evolving to respect self-sown plants.
into the Earths ecosystem and how nature now relies on us as much as the alternative. The objects found in these landscapes
"The gardener's role then is to guide and enrich in sympathy with natural processes"
“reflect societal behaviours as much as the urban environment, and invite reflection on the notion of the ‘citizen gardener’ who assumes a cooperative and participatory role in the maintenance of the urban ecosystem.” (G. Clément 2006 pg.105). This informs
Gilles Clements next theory emerged after he had seen
how postmodernist ideas have influenced Clements approach as
“The Chandelier” by Gilles Clement
How Can Environmental Psychology Influence Urban Regeneration?
that greenspaces are as important, or if not more so, than the architectural elements of the built environment. An additional concept that could potentially improve urban regeneration is that of designing spaces to facilitate not only the desired function, but
An extract from the concluding paragraph of my critical study discussing the effects of environment - behaviour interrelationships.
the resultant behaviour of that function. This philosophy could be installed from the offset of a project and just by fully understanding human behaviours in certain environments there is potential to create psychologically ergonomic spaces.
From the outset, the objective of this report sought to outline a set of key design strategies that could be considered when regenerating urban environments. And although this objective has in a way been met, the field of environmental psychology is still emerging and the very nature of studying the human subconscious brings about a certain level of subjectivity. As a result it has been
“The human subconscious is very complex and the task of trying to integrate psychological preferences into equally complex and dynamic systems is one that requires a great deal of respect and consideration”
difficult to provide conclusive solutions to issues faced by urban
Wr i t t e n E x t r a c t s
How Can Environmental Psychology Influence Urban Regeneration?
regeneration. Much of what has been discussed in the final chapter
One integral connection that has become increasingly apparent
of this report provides an initial suggestion on how environmental
throughout the report is that of a major link between the
psychology can influence urban regeneration, however it has
environment, humans, society and the economy (Fig. 8A).
become increasingly apparent throughout that to achieve a set of
Emphasised strongly throughout the report are the effects an
conclusive design strategies, more time would need to be spent
environment can have over an individual’s behaviours. These
considering the subject in greater depth. The human subconscious
behaviours can then result in more widespread affects that impact
is very complex and the task of trying to integrate psychological
upon the society that individual is integrated within. The resultant
preferences into equally complex and dynamic systems, as that
effects on the health of the social structure can then play an
is what urban environments have become, is one that requires
important role in that community’s economic wellbeing which will
a great deal of respect and consideration. This being said, the
consequently influence the health of the surrounding environment.
study has managed to indicate some key overriding notions that
This concept suggests that if one of the elements is considered
could be adopted with resultant positive impacts upon urban
‘unhealthy’, it could result in negative consequences upon the
regeneration. Throughout, there has been a great deal of emphasis
other elements such as social issues or economic deprivation.
on the positive psychological effects caused by nature and if this
Currently, politicians place weighted importance on the health of
was reflected more in urban regeneration proposals there could
our economy at the risk of neglecting the health of individuals,
be potential for added value within those schemes. This could be
communities and the environment.
achieved through something as simple as developers recognising
model suggests that through placing equal importance on social
However, this conceptual
and environmental health there may be positive impacts seen on the state of the economy. This is by no means a conclusive model; however is merely an observation recorded as a result from the research undertaken to complete this report. Conversely it is an observation that has been influenced by real time studies and may be worthwhile pursuing further. This report then has not been a fully exhaustive profile on the
ECONOMY
potential influences environmental psychology can have on regenerating our urban environments. However, it has provided an indicative insight into how understanding the human subconscious can enrich urban development. To conclude, there is almost definitely potential to add social and economic value to proposals through understanding environment-behaviour relationships. After researching environmental psychology and beginning to recognise its widespread potential over multiple disciplines, I feel
ENVIRONMENT
there is somewhat a parallel relevance to conclude this report with
INDIVIDUAL BEHAVIOUR
the words of Monika Wulf Mathies: “our cities are a sea of potential which has not yet been tapped� (Commission of the European Communities, 1997). I just hope this study has taken us one step closer to realising that potential.
SOCIAL STRUCTURE
Figure 8A The diagram depicts the connection between the environment, individual behaviour, social structure and the economy.
Christopher Wright G r ad uat e Land sc ap e Ar c hi t ec t
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Christopher Wright Gr ad u at e Land sc ap e Ar c hi t ec t