Inspired by radical sustainability and socio-cultural discourse, I design architecture that serves people materially, empowering them to create social and environmental impact. My projects prioritise helping the vulnerable through spaces that catalyse positive change.
Verdant Waters Tower is a nursery to grow aquatic plants to increase the biodiversity of Birmingham’s canals. The design reflects the programmatic need for the volunteers of the Canal and River Trust and the growth conditions for the aquatic plants that would be used. It offers an opportunity to correct the unsuccessful integration of plant habitats near the canal.
The tower comprises five stories, with the rectangular entry level running parallel to the site and set back approximately one metre from the boundary to prevent obstructing light into adjacent buildings. The next floor features a brick exterior offset by a wooden timber frame construction with operable glazing on three sides. The remaining upper floors take on a rounded trapezoid form that pivots around a point and recedes as the floor level increases, maximizing nursery lighting from the glass skylight during summer months.
