INTRODUCTION DESIGN TRIGGERS
The following are design triggers for the studio of University of Melbourne. “Ruined by Design”. “Don’t blame the pangolins.” “Coupled urban and natural systems.”
Looking toward the Anthropocene. The Urban Grassland attempts to create a framework that responds to such triggers, whilst introduced by other influences regarding the Dominant Social Paradigm, where mankind superiority is compared to other species and a belief that Earth has unlimited resources. The other destructive influence is that of the Conservation Phase wherein there is certainty and stability following a flow however this compromises on resilience and versatility, which can manifest in a more dramatic collapse.
The Urban Grassland. What happens if the grassland invades the city? Will the nature of Australia finally consume that which rid of it in the first place, or will it forgive mankind’s terror upon it? We will investigate the conditions of the existing native flora, vulnerable fauna, and attempt to recreate a comfortable space for them. Water placements, future grassland site context exploration and transportation limits will be analysed alongside this. Natural land and agriculture will play significant roles in managing the composition of the scheme, encroaching in the designated urban area by subdivision and suburbs. The newly introduced landscape can then provide self-sufficiency in at a community level.
Man and Nature. Collaborative efforts. A new sense of togetherness. We will give back what we once took away, with our own hands.
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