22/23 Graduate Diploma Interior Design Sole Mangal

Throughout my practice, the different nesting zones as seen below are examples of refuge places to seek comfort and safety whilst offering different uses and functions to mimic the natural world and compliment the benefits it has to offer rather than us existing separate to it. I wanted to focus on different functions prominent in a bird’s everyday life, from eating, sleeping to playing to inspire the movement of my space.

 What are the different functions and zones within my space and why?

The different zones within my space consist of an immersive informative head in experience where the user is able to gain insight into information about local bird species and declining populations as well as frequent bird species to look out for. The ‘Nesting Zone’ is served as a gathering area for visitors, whether wildlife enthusiasts or school groups, are able to discuss findings and share observations. Moreover, this can be seen as a social space for interaction, similar to the way a nest is a refuge place for interaction. The ‘Undercover Lookout Zones’ are designed as a space for observation with minimal disturbance to the external world, to maximise chances of observing the avian life. The ‘Sense Encapsulation’ zone is designed as an immersive experience within a nest for tactile aspects to grasp the visitor into the life-like senses of a bird’s nest. My aim is to create a space which can allow the user to feel as though they are connected to the external environment. The ‘Observation Tower’ is a look out space for contemplation and refuge, enabling elevated viewing to the external world, with a ladder raising from the ground. Often times, nests are elevated from the ground to protect eggs from predators. I wish to create this space as an internal habitat which is also connected to the external environment to improve the connection between man and nature, as a safe space for contemplation and observation.

I visited Notable Polish artist Magdalena Abakanowicz, known for her expansive structures at the Tate modern. Abakanowicz’s unique work of art functions as an animal sanctuary. The installation by Abakanowicz blurs the lines among nature and art and offers a special setting for numerous species to flourish in.

Bakanowicz frequently uses organic fibres, wood, and stone in his installations. These materials, selected for their compatibility with the environment, produce an aesthetic that harmoniously fits with the landscape that surrounds it. Animals can find refuge and places to hide thanks to the installation’s forms, which are inspired by organic shapes seen in nature.The structure serves as protection and provides a sanctuary for animals.

The distinction between art, nature, and preservation is blurred in Abakanowicz’s installation that serves as an animal home. It gives animals a chance to thrive by offering a secure and sustainable environment, and it encourages viewers to recognise how interrelated all living things are. Abakanowicz’s artistic vision and her dedication to fostering cohabitation between people and wildlife are demonstrated by the innovative way in which she has combined the development of habitat with art.

 

In attempt to replicate the concept of nesting as installation pieces, I have drawn visualisations above to capture the essence of different habitat areas within my interior space. Influenced by Magdalena Abakanowicz and her work, I wish to create structures within my interior which are essentially a metaphor for a habitat for humans inspired by avian nesting structures. Within each of my habitats, there will be different functions, for example auditory sensory aspects, as well as informative visuals to educate visitors of the need to preserve endangered bird species.

The “Nest” Flamingo Observatory is an innovative architectural idea that draws inspiration from flamingos’ typical nesting habits. A sustainable and immersive setting is intended to be provided by this innovative observatory design so that people can observe these graceful birds in their natural surroundings. An overview of the “Nest” Flamingo Observatory is provided below:

The observatory’s structure is made to resemble a massive flamingo nest. It has flowing structures, elaborate patterns, and curving lines that resemble the beautiful curves of flamingo nesting. This organic design strategy produces a building that is not only visually appealing but also harmoniously blends into the natural landscape around it.

 

Building a nesting bird observatory out of reclaimed materials in neutral colours can encourage sustainability while also contributing to a unified and natural look.
Inspired by the diagram of colour reference from the Flamingo observatory, I have used my own photographs of found materials to capture the earthy tones, greys, and muted hues which are examples of neutral colours that promote tranquilly and mix in well with the surrounding surroundings. My observatory aims to blend in with the landscape and create a calm environment for monitoring nesting birds by using colours that can imitate the natural hues of tree bark, rocks, and flora. The observatory is less visible to prospective predators and causes fewer disturbances to breeding birds thanks to neutral colours that help it blend in with the surrounding habitat. It is possible to persuade nesting birds to pick the bird observatory as a good location for their nesting activities by constructing a less noticeable building that provides an atmosphere of security and safety.

A unique wooden bird observatory was recently built by TRAU, a prominent architectural firm that specialises in sustainable design, demonstrating their dedication to green building. The project serves as an example of how sustainable practises may be combined with the use of wood, a renewable resource, to create an aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible building for nature lovers and bird watchers.

The observatory is made with different avian habitats and behaviours in mind. It includes elements that are beneficial to birds, such as nesting boxes, perches, and protected locations for feeding and roosting. These factors support the health of bird populations by giving them optimal surroundings close to the observatory.

For the pleasure of birdwatching to be enhanced, there must be plenty of natural light. This is something I wish to incorporate within my design to allow visitors to clearly see and admire the hues, patterns, and behaviours of birds thanks to this. The placement of large skylights and windows should be planned to maximise the amount of natural light that enters the observatory, resulting in a bright and welcoming environment.

Windows should be installed so that they offer clear views of the surroundings. A bird observatory’s architecture can make use of open light and windows to provide visitors with a well-lit, immersive experience that allows them to closely interact with nature and see birds in their natural habitats. These characteristics ensure that the observatory offers the best conditions for both bird enthusiasts and the species of birds they seek to observe, allowing for unhindered viewpoints, bird-friendly glazing, and programmable lighting.

The Deptford Creekside Discovery Centre, which is situated in the energetic district of Deptford, is a model destination for bird and nature enthusiasts. This facility offers a variety of educational and leisure activities centred on birds and the local ecosystem and acts as a link to the natural treasures of the Creekside.

In terms of dedication to environmental education, conservation, and community involvement, the Deptford Creekside Discovery Centre for Birds and Nature encapsulates each aspect. It serves as an invaluable asset for visitors as well as locals, promoting a deeper appreciation and comprehension of birds and their natural surroundings through its wide range of offers, sustainable architecture, and cooperative activities.

What are the aspects which the Creekside Discovery Centre has to offer?

Education and Interpretation: To engage visitors of all ages, the centre offers a wide range of educational programmes and interpretive exhibitions. Visitors can learn about the various bird species, their behaviours, and the critical role birds play in the neighbourhood environment through interactive displays, seminars, and guided tours.

The Creekside Discovery Centre serves as a crucial platform for the study and observation of birds. It has observation posts that are placed strategically to offer sweeping views of the creek and its avian residents as well as well-equipped bird shelters. Data collection, population monitoring, and participation in conservation activities are all possible for researchers and citizen scientists.

The centre has thoughtfully created wildlife gardens and habitats that draw a wide range of bird species. Birds can graze, reproduce, and find shelter in an environment that is friendly to them thanks to native plants, water features, and nesting structures. Visitors can observe birds in their natural surroundings and get knowledge about the value of building wildlife-friendly habitats in these places.

The Creekside Discovery Centre provides well-maintained boardwalks and nature trails that meander through the nearby wetlands and trees. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the many ecosystems, see birds, and take in the natural splendour on these routes. The educational experience is enhanced by the message boards along the pathways.

What is the Sustainability Significance and Benefit of the Creekside Discovery Centre?

The Deptford Creekside Discovery Centre is committed to using sustainable design and construction methods. The structure itself includes eco-friendly elements including green roofs, rainwater collection systems, and renewable energy sources. It serves as an example of construction that is environmentally conscious and encourages tourists to live sustainably.

The materials that are utilised should be carefully considered while building a bird observatory with ecology in mind. Making use of natural and eco-friendly materials helps reduce the project’s negative effects on the environment while constructing a beautiful structure. Here are some sustainable building elements to consider when creating a bird observatory:

Wood: Take into account utilising wood from legally managed forests. Low energy consumption, storage of carbon, and biodegradability are just a few benefits of wood. It has a warm and organic appearance and can be used for furniture, flooring, cladding, and structural elements.

Recycled and reclaimed materials are used because they prolong the life of already-existing materials while lowering the demand for new ones. Salvaged wood, recycled bricks, repurposed metal, and reused glass are a few examples.

Thinking of ways in which my bird observatory can reduce its environmental impact, blend in with the surroundings, and serve as an example of sustainable building techniques through using these organic and sustainable materials. It not only offers a haven for birds, but it also exemplifies the potential for peaceful cohabitation between humans and nature.

Creative uses of these materials are possible for a variety of architectural aspects, including walls, partitions, and ornamental components. Bamboo: A sustainable substitute for conventional hardwood, bamboo is renowned for its quick growth and renewability. It may be used for furniture, wall panelling, flooring, and structural support. Strong, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing, bamboo is a great material for environmentally friendly building.

My Project Roadmap aims to contextualise the different stages of each developmental process. I found that by identifying each stage of working towards my outcome, I am able to keep on track and manage my time efficiently throughout the different processes. This is an organisational tool which benefits me to working towards each goal in a timely manner.

The Sir John Soane’s Museum is renowned for its exquisite interior architecture, and its utilisation of light is a crucial component in generating a distinctive and enthralling atmosphere within the room. The effective utilisation of natural light to brighten the room is given priority by the museum. The building’s large skylights and windows are placed in key locations to let light enter. In addition to boosting the apparent brightness of the artworks and building components and minimising the need for artificial illumination during the day, the enough natural light creates a warm and welcoming ambiance. The museum uses mirrors and illuminated surfaces that are placed in strategic locations to spread and intensify light that is artificial and natural. These surfaces reflect light, giving the room an impression of depth and brightness.

Within the museum, the thoughtful application of shadows and light produces a dramatic and dynamic impact. Architectural details, pieces of art, and other items’ shadows give the room depth and texture while highlighting its distinct spatial characteristics. Visitors will have a richer, deeper encounter because to the interaction between shadows and light.

The interior design of Sir John Soane’s Museum uses unique and skillful lighting techniques to produce a compelling and interesting atmosphere. The museum has a distinctive ambiance that is accentuated by the use of natural light, light wells, disguised illumination, reflections, and precisely controlled artificial lighting. This combination highlights the architectural features and makes it possible to see the artworks in their best light.

How does this relate / link to my own work?

Within my Bird’s nest, Sir John Soane’s museum has encouraged me to think of ways to incorporate a lot of windows, skylights, or open spaces while designing the observatory to let in as much natural light as possible within my bird observatory. Natural light makes watching more enjoyable and real, and it also lessens the desire for artificial illumination throughout the day.

I can design a well-lit, aesthetically pleasing area that improves the pleasure of observing birds by thoughtfully incorporating light into a bird observatory. The proper ratio of natural and artificial illumination, together with sensible controls, will guarantee visitor security, protect the surroundings, and provide the best possible observation of bird behaviours and habitats.

My objective through this project is to create an observatory space to admire and appreciate the surrounding wildlife. I am interested in creating a space which is influenced by the existing structures surrounding within nature to curate a space which is designed to slow down and focus on the natural world and the beautiful elements it has to offer, from the wildlife to encapsulation of all of our 5 senses, sight, touch, sound, smell, taste. Often we walk through parks, with there merely being a bench to sit and take rest, whilst majority of the focus is either a cut through from A to B or a swift walk in the park. Through creating a space to admire the surrounding area as a zone targeted to environmentalists as well as people with keen interest of wildlife and preservation of the natural world, I wish to offer a contrast to the fast-pace life of the hustle within London and create a safe refuge for not only humans but also wildlife—a space for interaction and appreciation. Situated opposite Creekside Discovery Centre, within Ferranti Park with close proximity to Sue Godfrey Nature Park, my intent is to allow visitors to reconnect with nature and allow a space for people to log what they observe whilst appreciating the feeling.

Contextualising My Concept

My bird observatory acts as a crucial hub for improving the bond between people and wildlife. The observatory fosters awe, fosters empathy for birds and their habitats, and promotes people to make meaningful contributions to the preservation of our natural world by providing educational opportunities, enabling scientific study, engaging in community science efforts, and encouraging sustainability.

My Pop-Up is a bird observatory which is inspired by the various construction forms of a bird’s nest. The aim of my structure is to invite both wildlife and humans, to create a space for observation and appreciation of the surrounding environment. My objective is to create a language and improve the relationship between the exterior and interior.

Why have I chosen a Bird Observatory?

The creation of a bird observatory acts as a catalyst for improving communication between people and nature. This institution serves as a bridge, encouraging the knowledge, love, and preservation of avian species while providing visitors with a life-changing experience.

The bird observatory offers a haven for bird lovers, researchers, and the general public alike and is situated in a beautiful natural location. Its main objectives are to increase scientific understanding, encourage environmental education, and foster a sense of caring for birds and their habitats. The observatory fosters a stronger bond between humans and nature by introducing people to the wonders of avian life.

Additionally, the bird observatory acts as a launchpad for citizen science projects. Bird monitoring programmes are open to locals and visitors, who can provide important information for ongoing research initiatives. The observatory encourages people to take an active role in bird conservation initiatives by incorporating the public in scientific endeavours, generating a sense of ownership and pride in local ecosystems.

The observatory’s eco-friendly practises demonstrate its dedication to sustainability. The facility uses waste management techniques, renewable energy sources, and energy-efficient design to reduce its ecological impact. The observatory hopes to encourage visitors to incorporate ecologically friendly habits into their daily lives through these sustainable efforts.