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Within the depth of the forest an intriguing clearing unravels (macrocosm) – a glade defined by a smoothly elevated topology with a set of infolds in the ground (mesocosm),and numerous biotech components floating above (microcosm).‍

We are attracted to get closer, and descend into the scenario to observe the subtle emergence of nature at multiple scales. From this subterranean vantage point we become aware of the microbiome as the foundationfor an invigorated biodiversity.

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The circular geometry of the garden symbolises how we coexist in aholistic manner with respect to multiple species. We are immersed in a juxtaposition of familiar and unfamiliar biological growth that shows us a pathtowards a more biophilic future human habitat.

The Conferviant Glade is in essence a refugia for water and carbon. It is a silent yet noisy place, where keystone species such as cyanobacteria and algae assemble and exchange with bacteria, fungi and plants, forming novel ecosystems.

The garden explores the tension between laboratory-made conditions (controlled) and landscape (uncontrolled). It provokes curiosity to encounter biotechnology in unexpected forms within the natural context.

Links:

Cruz M., Parker BM. ‘From Anthropocene To Biocene: Novel Bio-Integrated Design as a means to respond to the currentbiodiversity and climate crisis’. In Working at the Intersection: Architecture after the Anthropocene (eds Harriet Harriss & Naomi House), RIBA publications, 2022

Credits:

Team: Brenda Parker and Marcos Cruz

Collaboration: Ella Hetherington, Ningkang Wen, Hanwei Zhang

Consultancy (botany): Dr Mark Spencer

Consultancy (ecology): Dr Harry Watkins

Location: Métis Garden Festival, Canada

Year: 2022