An exploration of urban biodiversity through integrated design

‘Democratising greenery’ explores the potential of increasing urban biodiversity through the means of integrating the grown with the built. The project investigates existing conditions of green spaces in Grangetown, Cardiff, their current value to the community and potential improvements, including linkage, removal of boundaries, and weaving through the existing infrastructure.

By focusing on the design for nature and wildlife first, the scheme democratises the design process, while also creating a more inclusive environment by expanding greenery accessible to all members of the community. The hybridisation of specific architectural elements with natural features creates an interaction point bringing the community closer to the other actors in their environment, enhancing the quality of living for the residents and supporting the growth and protection of local species.

The introduction of pollinators as catalysts for improved biodiversity, both in flora and fauna, creates a connection between people and wildlife, enhances awareness, participation in research, and commercial potential, whilst limiting the effect of climate change and increasing resilience of the existing habitats. The design of architecture following the needs of pollinators found in Grangetown and expands on them to create research areas enabling development of new produce engaging local community, university researchers, and the wildlife itself, creating a collaborative system, increasing the value of the investment. The range of benefits includes decreased costs of health services and artificial pollination, decreased flood risk, improved food production, and social and aesthetic values evoking feelings of pride, belonging, and experiences of wonder.

Overall, the scheme proposes a new approach to existing greenery by advocating for active research of species throughout architecture enhancing biodiversity, thus increasing the value of green spaces and protecting them from future urban sprawl.