Postgraduate Landscape Architecture

Christopher WrightGraduate Landscape Archi tect

Im 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 challenging preconceptions of what

is achievable. I would like my future direction within the profession to culminate in working within a team at the forefront of landscape architecture, that adopts an intelligent approach to creating smart landscapes that are responsive to growing social

and environmental pressures.

I n t e r e s t s

Pe r s o n a l S t r e n g t h s

Adventure // Architecture // Athletics // Environmental Psychology Graphic Design // Innovation // Physics // Photography // Team Sports

Written and Verbal Communication // Team contribution // Aspiring Creative // Adaptable // Reliable

Aw a r d sThe Evening Telegraph Outstanding Sporting Achievement award

5000m final at national track & Field champs. in London Olympic StadiumRanked 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)

Landscape Institute Award in recognition

of an outstanding final design (2013)

Christopher WrightGraduate Landscape Archi tect

13 Cerris Road, Dogsthorpe, Peterborough, PE1 4HR

E d u c a t i o nPG Dip Landscape Architecture

BA(hons) Landscape Architecture First Class HonoursFirst Class Honours Dissertation

3 x A Levels = B C C 10 x GCSEs = A* - B

S o f t w a r e S k i l l s

D e s i g n S t r e n g t h s

Adobe InDesign // Adobe Photoshop // AutoCAD // Google SketchUp KeySCAPE // CS Artisan // MS Office

Technical Detailing // Public Realm Design // Masterplanning Graphic Visualisation

Leeds Beckett University (2014 - summer 2015)Leeds Metropolitan University (2010 - 2013)

E x p e r i e n c eDeveloped a technical minded approach to landscape architecture working

within a dynamic, fast paced team environment on high profile, quality urban public realm projects producing Stage C sketch designs, Design and

access statements and comprehensive, detailed tender drawings.

Broadened my experience within the profession through assisting in the production of a comprehensive LVIA for a large scale mine proposal in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Collaborated in the designs of rural

park landscapes and residential planting schemes.

Representative on the Landscape Institute Yorkshire and Humber Branch

Assistant Landscape Architect Townshend Landscape Architects(Augusts 2013 - August 2014)

Thomas Deacon Academy (2010)Thomas Deacon Academy (2008)

Assistant Landscape ArchitectEstell Warren Landscape Architecture(September 2014 - summer 2015)

Landscape Institute Student Rep. (2012 - 2013)

Leeds Met. Uni. Cross Country Captain (2012 - 2013)Team Cambridgeshire Track & Field Captain (2010)

c h r i s l u ke w r i g h t @ h o t m a i l . c o . u k0 7 8 8 7 3 5 74 0 3 g o o . g l / 1 u h 2 Z c

People ignore design that ignores peopleU r b a n G r e e n Frank Chimero

ConnectivityAccess

UrbanGREEN

Southbank Park

C i t y Pa r k Pr o p o s a l

Improved accessibility Strengthen North - South connections

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.

Hortus Conclusus Blue InfrastructureActive waterfrontIntimate residential gardens

s o m e t h i n g s m a l l h a s fo u n d s a n c t u a r y i n s o m e t h i n g b i g Peter Zumthor

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Tree Cover Blossoming Trees

Building

Softscape Hardscape Water

Primary RouteSecondary Route

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.

Masterplan

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River Aire

A653Cr

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UrbanGREEN

1 Riverfront Wetland System 2 The Promenade

3 Sponsored Projects Green 4 Events Lawn

5 Proposed Southbank Pavilion 6 Brewery Plaza

7 Carlsberg Reflection Pool 8 The Sky Gardens

9 Biotope Causeway

The waterfront along the Western side of the park has been opened up and features an ecological wetland system that cleanses river and runoff water whilst providing flood relief.

Meadow Lane has been pedestrianised and acts as a backbone within the park. The Promenade is both a direct route through the park and a destination, with views across much of the site.

The heart of the park features a temporal, creative interventions green. Designers and businesses are invited to sponsor the green and create short term interventions in the landscape.

A sculpted pavilion is the central focal point within the events lawn and provides a hub from which large scale events can emanate. The pavilion provides a sheltered vantage point within the park.

The existing Carlsberg HQ has been de-constructed and heavily planted, creating an immersive outdoor room. It sits within a reflection pool, creating a serene entrance feature from the South.

The Causeway acts as a magnificent entrance feature at the Eastern gateway. Pathways weave in between biodiverse columns of untouched habitats left to grow with the Park through time.

A large, open events lawn provides space for festivals, markets, sports days and communal celebrations. This flexible open space integrates Southbank Park with the community.

Brewery Plaza is the active heart of Southbank Park. A ground floor cafe in the Tetley Brewery building opens up onto a social square. The Plaza connects the park with its context and the public.

The Sky Gardens feel isolated from the main park, providing a peaceful environment for personal reflection. The raised gardens each possess a theme inspired by Leeds industry and culture.

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Large Broad-Leaf

Pinus sylvestris

MixedDeciduous

Paved Platforms Grassland Water

Well MaintainedLawn

Betula pubescens

Southbank Waterfront is a seamless integration of hard and soft to create a coherent landscape that blends public amenity into rich

biodiversity. Contemporary landform filters water from the River Aire whilst stepped level changes, from the promenade down to the

pool, filter movement along the waterfront. Blurred movement networks encourage freedom to explore and discover new spaces.

Waterfront Development

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River Aire

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UrbanGREEN

1 Western Gateway

4 Riverbank

7 Retention Pool

2 Earth Mounds

5 Vegetated Swale 6 Stepped Sun-Lawns

The western entrance to the site connects Southbank Park with Bridgewater Place and the canal route beyond. Upon entering the park, a serpentine pathway opens up onto the waterfront.

The riverbanks are heavily planted, filtering the river water as it passes into the main retention pool. They also provide smaller, intimate spaces for relaxing in the landscape.

The retention pool temporarily holds cleansed water from the River Aire and surface run-off before it is recycled throughout the park and in the surrounding apartments.

Using the earth removed to create the retention ponds, earth mounds have been created to screen the views of the busy roads and contain the park.

Two smaller pools, planted with water plants, cleanse water from the River Aire and act as flood alleviation. The swales are also a great habitat for increased biodiversity.

A series of stepped sun-lawns overlook the waterfront and provide a perfect vantage point from which to relax and observe.

3 Bridge

8 Cleansing Biotopes

9 The Promenade

Three small bridges cross the retention pool, allowing the public to access the far banks and interact with the vegetated swale system, allowing a truly immersive experience.

The biotopes take advantage of the stepped change in level and filter surface run-off from the park. As the surface water filters through each level it is gradually cleansed before reaching the main retention pool.

The Promenade bounds the waterfront and allows direct access around the space. Tree avenues allow people to filter across the boundary between the waterfront and promenade enhancing the concept of connectivity that runs throughout the park.

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Designed as a flood alleviation scheme, the waterfront development 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.

Waterfront Development

Cross section through waterfront from North to South

(1)River Aire

UrbanGREEN

(3) Level ChangeA series of platforms step down from the main promenade to the waters edge

(2)(3)

f r e e d o m o f m o ve m e n t

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Waterfront Planting

Pond

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argi

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ltra

tion

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ioto

pes

Native

Pere

nnials

Winter

Borde

rsTree

Avenu

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The waterfront planting scheme has been designed in order to enhance the concept of Connectivity through filtration of movement

and views. Species such as Cornus and Betula will provide winter interest, whilst their skeletal structures will create a semi-permeable

barrier. Aquatic plants have been chosen on their ability to filter intoxicated water, while species such as Butomus and Typha provide

structural beauty.

C i t y Pa r k Pr o p o s a lUrbanGREEN

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 Images from Crocus & Gardenersworld

25.8025.5325.2624.9924.7224.4524.1823.81

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Southbank ParkLeedsa discovery landscape

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Southbank ParkLeedsa discovery landscape

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Embracing Green PrinciplesC i t i e s A l i v e

CANDY BARplace

In response to

Candy Bar PlaceCandy 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 that tie into wider framework

- SUDs Streets

- Green and Biodiverse Roofs

- Green Walls

- A Water Square

- Rain Gardens

CONTEXTUAL VEHICULAR NETWORKExisting Main RoadExisting Railway LineProposed Tram Route

SITE VEHICULAR NETWORKPrimary CirculationStreet Access

CONTEXTUAL PEDESTRIAN NETWORKPedestrian HighwayLinks to wider networkGreen Corridor

SITE PEDESTRIAN NETWORKNorth - South ConnectionPrimary Inner development networkGreen Corridor

CitiesALIVE S u s t a i n a b l e N e i g h b o u r h o o d

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CitiesALIVE

High rise apartment at gateway to development

Roof terrace access at midway point of apartment block

Tall apartment blocks aligning key pedestrian route

Local centre

One/two storey school building

Mid rise apartments overlooking public green

Four storey terraces form large percentage of built form

High rise apartments align key pedestrian link into neighbourhood

Apartments bridge void to enhance gateway characteristics f the pedestrian link

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EASTWEST SECTION

NORTHSOUTH SECTION

Private roof gardens

DefensivePlanting

High Street

Local Centre/Spill out

Cafe/Bars/Restaurants

Circulation Road

Citywide Cycle Route

Existing Main Road

Defensive Planting

Private Roof GardensSwale System

Residential Block

Private gardens

C i t y w i d e pedestriannetwork

Shared street

Shared street Shared street

Private gardens

Residential Street Pedestrian

High Street

Rain Garden

Public Square

CitiesALIVE

EW

N

S

Key Pedestrian Route

Street Parking

High Street

SuDS Planting

Ground Floor Shops

Perimeter Pedestrian Route

Public Amenity Space

School

Private roof gardens

Private gardens

Private gardens

Residential Street

HybridStreet

HybridStreet

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Stra

tegi

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r Des

igne

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MultipleFunctions

MultipleUsers

NewFunctions

NewNeeds

FutureUsers

Multiple-Purpose &

Multi-Function Spaces

More Than Just a Pretty Place

New Techniques,

New Technologies

Future-Proofing

How &For Who?

The need to make green spaces more than just

aesthetic demands multifunctionality

Multifunctional spaces works when

the potential for multiple end users

is considered

New techniques + technologies will enable new uses + functions

for a space

Future-proofing will demand the use of new

tools + techniques

The design process must consider how

users might change or grow over time + what their future needs

might be

Figure 5: Strategies Diagram This chart maps the relationships and flow between the design strategies outlined in this report. The strategies not only affect and are affected by each other, but also have identifiable crossover points where more specific needs can be drawn out. Arup

appendix 1CHECKLIST FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS AND CITY DESIGNERS

LANDSCAPE CONTEXT AND ASSETS

qAcknowledge geographic setting and landscape characteristics

q Take account of water catchment/supply

q Note current land uses and design responses to locality

q Consider ecosystem services and implications for biodiversity

q Review history of area and any heritage implications

q Note social and economic factors influencing landscape

q Review implications of climate change, energy needs, population growth

q Consider plans and any design proposals to date

q Review similar projects/case studies and project approaches

SUSTAINABLE MASTERPLANNING

q Conserve historic landscape, built form and significant aesthetic features

q Prioritize development on disturbed land wherever possible

q Protect natural heritage and enhance biodiversity of site

q Reuse redundant structures and adapt existing landscapes for new uses

q Design for socially inclusive community and neighbourhood safety

q Plan compact development to optimize land development potential

q Cater for wide spectrum of users and communities

q Site buildings to minimize energy use

q Ensure site is part of green and blue infrastructure

q Develop design rooted in local context

q Encourage local use through ease of access

Cities Alive Rethinking green infrastructure 146 Arup 147

appendix 1 (contd)CHECKLIST FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS AND CITY DESIGNERS

q Design networks for walking and cycling and permeable space

q Ensure connections to public transport

q Respond to the ecology of the place

q Design social gathering spaces and active frontages

q Integrate overall vision with detail design

q Engage local community/stakeholders

q Enhance biodiversity

q Incorporate productive landscapes

q Create unique, comprehensible and memorable places

q Plan for the inclusion of public art

q Encourage local business opportunities

q Design for multiuse and range of uses

q Sustain landscape from economic and social perspectives

q Design for health of all ages

q Connect people to places/destinations

q Include information and interpretative facilities

q Provide amenities for diverse range of users

q Provide for flexible space for future change of uses

q Provide shelter and shade with large trees

ECOLOGICAL SITE DESIGN

q Generate green energy on-site

q Use indigenous and/or non-invasive plant species

q Use ecosystem services and enhance site ecology

q Minimise night light pollution

q Incorporate homes for wildlife

q Extend local plant communities

q Balance cut and fill of soil on-site

q Minimise floodplain development

q Use water-sensitive urban design

q Maximize water retention on-site

q Restore and create wetlands

q Reduce impervious surfaces

q Take measures to reduce air pollution



The sustainability credentials for Candy Bar Place have been assessed using the Checklist for Landscape

Architects and City Designers contained in the appendices of the Cites Alive publication. The checklist

provides an insight into how well the proposal could meet demands of modern city developments.

CitiesALIVE


q Design networks for walking and cycling and permeable space

q Ensure connections to public transport

q Respond to the ecology of the place

q Design social gathering spaces and active frontages

q Integrate overall vision with detail design

q Engage local community/stakeholders

q Enhance biodiversity

q Incorporate productive landscapes

q Create unique, comprehensible and memorable places

q Plan for the inclusion of public art

q Encourage local business opportunities

q Design for multiuse and range of uses

q Sustain landscape from economic and social perspectives

q Design for health of all ages

q Connect people to places/destinations

q Include information and interpretative facilities

q Provide amenities for diverse range of users

q Provide for flexible space for future change of uses

q Provide shelter and shade with large trees

ECOLOGICAL SITE DESIGN

q Generate green energy on-site

q Use indigenous and/or non-invasive plant species

q Use ecosystem services and enhance site ecology

q Minimise night light pollution

q Incorporate homes for wildlife

q Extend local plant communities

q Balance cut and fill of soil on-site

q Minimise floodplain development

q Use water-sensitive urban design

q Maximize water retention on-site

q Restore and create wetlands

q Reduce impervious surfaces

q Take measures to reduce air pollution



GREEN TECHNOLOGIES

q Use recycled materials

q Green structures/buildings

q Use timber from sustainable sources

q Use durable products

q Minimize mowing/use of machinery

q Use organic compost, fertilizers and mulches

q Decompose waste on-site

q Use phytoremediation on contaminated sites

q Use porous paving

q Procure local construction products

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT

q Facilitate education for sustainability

q Establish a landscape management plan

q Incorporate site nursery and composting

q Ecological monitoring to inform change

q Ongoing design and conservation

q Minimize use of pest/herbicides

q Site-based maintenance/park manager

This guide/checklist was developed initially with particular reference to the Sustainable Sites Initiative developed by the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center / American Society of Landscape Architects in 2007.

List provided courtesy of Chris Royffe, Leeds Metropolitan University


appendix 2GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE:SELECTED FACTS AND FIGURES

Green infrastructure is defined as open spaces, natural areas, urban woodland and parks; green streets, squares and public realm; sustainable drainage systems and healthy waterways, cycleways and pedestrian routes within our city environments; and smaller scale green roofs, walls and facades.

SOCIAL BENEFITS

A study in New York states that asthma rates among children age four and five fell by a quarter for every extra 343 trees per square kilometre. The presence of street trees was linked with a 29% reduction in early childhood asthma. gS lOvASi , Jw Quinn , km neCkermAn, mS perzAnOwSki, AnD A. runDle, ChilDren living in

AreAS wiTh mOre STreeT TreeS hAve lOwer ASThmA prevAlenCe (2008)

Residents in high greenery environments were 3.3 times more likely to take frequent physical exercise than those in the lowest greenery category. fOreSTry COmmiSSiOn, The CASe fOr TreeS in DevelOmenT AnD The urBAn envirOnmenT (2010)

Researchers from the University of Exeter, using data from 5,000 households over 17 years, found that people reported lower levels of mental distress and higher degrees of life satisfaction when they were living in greener areas. Researchers agree that the body of evidence is sufficient for urban planners to factor in the benefits derived from green spaces when designing new developments. mArk kinver BBC newS (2013), BBC.CO.uk/newS/SCienCe-envirOnmenT-24806994


Considered in part

Directly considered and achieved in proposal

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Skegness ForeshoreE c o l o g i c a l C o a s t

My current university project

explores design solutions

to rejuvenate the Skegness

Foreshore which is at risk of a

declining economy and eroding

beach. The masterplan seeks

to create a resilient seafront

through the restoration of

coastal habitats and layering

of dune systems.Dunes provide access along foreshore and act as a coastal buffer

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Jersey International Finance CentreD e s i g n D e t a i l

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.

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Westfield Phase 2, Shepherds BushP u b l i c R e a l m Frank Chimero

n12

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.

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Marischal Square, AberdeenP u b l i c R e a l m

4T O W N S H E N D L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S

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.

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Streatham Hill, LondonR e s i d e n t i a l

The project involved designing

a central courtyard for a new

residential development in

Streatham Hill, London. The

design picks up on 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 with creating

the initial design concept and

communicating the proposal

in a Stage C design document.

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P u b l i c C o n s u l t a t i o nNew Fryston, Castleford

Fryston CommunityCentre

PublicCONSULTATION D e s i g n & C o m m u n i t y

C o m m u n i t y

C o n s u l t a t i o n

C l i e n t

C o m m u n i c a t i o n

C o n s i d e ra t i o n

Fryston Community Centre is a live project in an ex-mining village on the edge of Castleford. The village residents expressed the

need for a new community centre and garden, the project involved consulting with both the community and client in order to put

forward design proposals for the community garden, to be used by local people and visitors to the area. Proposals had to consider

local vernacular whilst providing space for Forest Schools activities and community gatherings.

C o o p e ra t i o n

Community Consultation Social Space Parties Natural Play Engagement Wildlife Contemporary Mining Heritage Arts & Crafts Open Roundhouse Wild Garden Relax Communal Seating Interaction Graffiti Flexible Space Bonfire Forest Schools Multi-Functional Sports Day Family & Friends Pride

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Context & AnalysisFryston is a small village in Castleford, West Yorkshire. It is situated close to the A1 and the Leeds - York railway line. In close proximity

are a variety of biodiverse park lands, including Fryston Basin, Well Woods, The River Aire and Fairburn Ings Nature Reserve. With such

valuable assets nearby there is potential for Fryston Community Garden to be an extension and integral link between the public and

surrounding park lands.


Location Map

Site Analysis Plan

Key Destinations

Good Views

Poor Views

Target Notes

Main Pedestrian Routes

Main Vehicular Routes

Site Boundary

Buildings

Green Space

Existing Shrubs &Trees

Potential for the Community Centre to extend links to surrounding areas of natural interest.

1. Bus Stop - Main public transport

2. Bull Ring - Holds historical value

3. Dense Planting - Species rich4. Limestone Grassland - Valueable

5. Martha Schwartz Park

Target Notes

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Axis responds to the site and its context, creating a space that links well with the village. The garden reflects the local heritage through

materials that hold industrial characteristics. A communal shelter at the heart of the space embraces the community spirit that runs

through Fryston and provides a focal point for the garden. Running parallel to the Southern boundary is a section of reclaimed railway

that links an open-air workshop and industrial roundhouse, providing an interactive element for the Forest Schools group to experience

the site. Two main axes both connect and define the garden, creating spaces for communication, interaction and reflection.

AXIS - Community Garden

Industrial Heritage

Communication Interaction

1

2

3

Reflection

1 A Social Forum

2 Total Immersion

3 Industrial Character

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Client feedback for the design proposal, Axis, stated the central communal space and industrial characteristics were well received.

However, there was a preferential towards filtered movement patterns rather than the defined routes used in Axis. The clients also

emphasised that much of the community garden would need to be constructed by non-specialists. This feedback was responded to in

a group proposal that retained the industrial nature of previous concepts, but prioritised ease of construction and informal, flexible

spaces.

Group Proposal

Movement PatternsRationale for site layout. Filtered and informal site exploration.

C o m m u n i t y

C o n s u l t a t i o n

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The client proposals culminated in an exhibition evening, on which a design package including process & rationale, masterplanning,

detailed visualisation, planting and construction drawings were presented to the client. These took the form of a curated exhibition,

model and portfolio.

Public Exhibition

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W r i t t e n E x t r a c t sA picture speaks a thousand words, but a thousand good words paint infinite pictures

ostmodernism is a term used to describe a range of conceptual

ideologies, risen in opposition of the modernist movement that

shaped, not only the 19th and 20th century, but the society

we see today. To understand the context of postmodernism,

it is important to understand the frameworks that defined the

Modern Era. Throughout this period, we as humans were driven

by knowledge and the need to objectively define the world that

we live in. Ideologies often associated with modernism are those

such as realism, structuralism and materialism. Ultimately, these

are notions independent of human observation. Postmodernism

then, is the approach in which we consider reality as a phenomenon

subjective to an individual. It considers ways in which social

dynamics affect human conceptualization of knowledge. This

movement encompasses theories such as idealism, relativism and

scepticism. In a world where knowledge was beginning to diminish

human significance, postmodernism rose to once again give

meaning to our existence.

Gilles Clement is a French landscape architect, considered to be

part of the postmodernist era. Through his approach to design,

Clement encompasses postmodernist philosophies, whether

intentional or not. His desire to observe beauty lies not with a

need to find an objective definition, but to gently craft a landscape

that has a relationship with both the site and observers. Clements

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. Clment 2006

pg.90), and how it is important to foster and achieve an equilibrium

in which no one species has the upper hand (G. Clment 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-

Franois Lyotard) Gilles Clement chose neither to accept nor reject

past truths, but to direct them in such a way as to work in harmony

alongside natures prowess.

Clement is described as a hard man to pin down 1, maybe due

to his modest and unassuming 1 nature. This can be seen in his

simple description of his profession; a gardener 1. Not just a

designer, Gilles writes popular fables, novels and philosophical

reflections. His interests span further into ecology, botany and

also entomology. Clement studied agronomy along with landscape

design at university and at such an early stage of his career he was

already defending biological gardening 1. From Clements diverse

studies of nature it is easy to understand how his past education

is influencing his design approach today, not nature unspoiled by

man, but partnership 1. Defined as a life changing moment, Gilles

spent two days in a coma after gardening with his father and getting

GILLES CLEMENTLE JARDINIER FRANCAIS

An article on Postmodernism and why world renowned 'gardener', Gilles Clement, is considered a postmodernist designer.

P

a highly toxic rose spray into an open wound. This drove Gilles to

escape the highly regimented gardening his father used and begin

a less invasive approach. This event is almost a metaphor of why

postmodernism arose, people were reacting to the controlled and

regimented ideologies of modernism and wanted to experience

life on a more personal and interactive scale. In 1997 Clement was

able to purchase land he sought refuge as a child and transformed

the clearing into La Valle, one of Frances most admired gardens

1. This was the beginning of Clements first influential theory The

Moving Garden.

With time, the design of the garden will evolve, it depends on the

person who maintains it and is not the result of a plan drawn at the

office 2. This very much defines the concept of a moving garden.

The gardens design is in response to not just the site, but the

processes that happen within the space. Already there is a strong

correlation between Clements theory and postmodernism. There

is a strong sense of individual subjectivity to the outcome of the

garden, as it will almost surely be different for each person who

maintains the garden. Clement observes watching wasteland, I

am not only fascinated by the energy of natures reclamation, I also

want to know how to insert myself in the midst of this powerful

flow 1. It clearly shows the respect he has for nature but also the

desire Clement feels to be part of this process, almost a yearning

to feel significant in this complex ecosystem. It was very much a

widely felt emotion at the end of the modern era, people wanted to

feel important on this vast planet and not a burden on its resources.

The moment Gilles has chosen to incorporate himself within the

process of succession is when spontaneous growth includes all

the elements usually found in a garden. The gardeners role then

is to guide and enrich in sympathy with natural processes 1. One of

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

be mown each year, evolving to respect self-sown plants.

"The gardener's role then is to guide and enrich in sympathy with natural processes"

Gilles Clements next theory emerged after he had seen

photographs of Earth from space. The Planetary Garden is an

imagination of extending the care and devotion lavished on home

gardens to the planet as a whole. It highlights the importance of

ecological diversity and how existence so far has had a damaging

affect. It is a much more directed theory than the moving Garden

but encompasses the key principle of working alongside nature

without destroying diversity, making possible the existence of

the garden (The Earth) and hence the gardener. 3 (Humans). This

closely resembles a postmodernist ideology as it places the role of

the gardener into a wider context. This theory implies we play an

important role in the Earths ecosystem rather than the objective

notions, independent of humans, expressed throughout the

modern era.

Most recently Clement has been developing another concept

called The Third Landscape. He was influenced by highly managed

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farm land, south of Paris, to seek abandoned spaces still capable

of spontaneous revival...as La Vallee once was 1. These neglected

spaces can be important areas for accumulating biodiversity;

they are Earths genetic reservoir 4. As highlighted in Clements

The Chandelier, flowering weeds, grasses, insects and man-made

objects such as various litter can be found in the Third Landscape.

They all belong to a single ecosystem, both man and nature.

The theory expresses how we as humans have forced ourselves

into the Earths ecosystem and how nature now relies on us as

much as the alternative. The objects found in these landscapes

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. Clment 2006 pg.105). This informs

how postmodernist ideas have influenced Clements approach as

he no longer sees humans as an entity independent of the Earths

workings, but a key component in how we visualise and experience

nature.

After understanding Clements approaches, ideologies and

rationale to landscape design it is easy to see how many would

consider him a postmodernist. His theories question the science

of the modern era directly; all three of Clements concepts express

the importance of the human race on not just a small scale, but the

worlds ecosystem. Some state that postmodernism isnt a period in

its own right, but a transition from one to another. We can only hope

this transition leads to an acknowledgement of our own ignorance

towards the devastating effects our existence is currently having

on the planet we inhabit. After all, what use is a gardener if there

is no garden?

The Chandelier by Gilles Clement

L e J a r d i n i e r F ra n c a i s

(Gilles Clement) no longer sees humans as an entity independent of the Earths workings, but a key component in how we visualise and experience nature

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How Can EnvironmentalPsychology Influence Urban Regeneration?

An extract from the concluding paragraph of my critical study discussing the effects of environment - behaviourinterrelationships.

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

difficult to provide conclusive solutions to issues faced by urban

regeneration. Much of what has been discussed in the final chapter

of this report provides an initial suggestion on how environmental

psychology can influence urban regeneration, however it has

become increasingly apparent throughout that to achieve a set of

conclusive design strategies, more time would need to be spent

considering the subject in greater depth. The human subconscious

is very complex and the task of trying to integrate psychological

preferences into equally complex and dynamic systems, as that

is what urban environments have become, is one that requires

a great deal of respect and consideration. This being said, the

study has managed to indicate some key overriding notions that

could be adopted with resultant positive impacts upon urban

regeneration. Throughout, there has been a great deal of emphasis

on the positive psychological effects caused by nature and if this

was reflected more in urban regeneration proposals there could

be potential for added value within those schemes. This could be

achieved through something as simple as developers recognising

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

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.

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

One integral connection that has become increasingly apparent

throughout the report is that of a major link between the

environment, humans, society and the economy (Fig. 8A).

Emphasised strongly throughout the report are the effects an

environment can have over an individuals behaviours. These

behaviours can then result in more widespread affects that impact

upon the society that individual is integrated within. The resultant

effects on the health of the social structure can then play an

important role in that communitys economic wellbeing which will

consequently influence the health of the surrounding environment.

This concept suggests that if one of the elements is considered

unhealthy, it could result in negative consequences upon the

other elements such as social issues or economic deprivation.

Currently, politicians place weighted importance on the health of

our economy at the risk of neglecting the health of individuals,

communities and the environment. However, this conceptual

model suggests that through placing equal importance on social

ENVIRONMENT

SOCIAL STRUCTURE

ECONOMY

INDIVIDUALBEHAVIOUR

Figure 8A The diagram depicts the connection between the environment, individual behaviour, social structure and the economy.

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

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

there is somewhat a parallel relevance to conclude this report with

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.

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P O R T F O L I O

Documents

Postgraduate Landscape Architecture