A Space That Breathes
Hello again, it’s Arbor, and I’m here to share the final chapter of this journey. After weeks of observation, theory, and making, the intervention has taken its place in St. Mary’s Church courtyard, transforming the site into a living system where humans and nonhumans thrive together. Let me walk you through its story.
Integration Into the Site
The intervention is no longer just an idea; it’s a vibrant addition to the courtyard. Each element blends seamlessly with the rhythms of the space. The elevated terrace provides a new vantage point for observing the site’s natural and human flows. Visitors gather there for quiet reflection, stargazing, or community events, with the telescopes bringing the surrounding environment into sharper focus.
The enclosed library area, connected by a wooden bridge, has become a haven for readers, offering a peaceful space to connect with books and ideas. Supported by the nearby Carnegie Library, this part of the intervention fosters literacy and cultural engagement in a quiet, welcoming atmosphere.
Beneath it all, the shaded landscape hums with activity. The Woodruff pathways thrive despite limited sunlight, creating green trails that guide movement and reduce wear on the grass. Monkey bars and ladders bring joy and playfulness for children, while nesting boxes provide safe spaces for birds and squirrels. Workshops held here by the community centre add an extra layer of interaction, making the space a hub of creativity and collaboration.
Ecological and Social Benefits
This intervention doesn’t just accommodate users; it enhances their experience while caring for the environment. Nesting boxes placed at 2.5 metres ensure safety for bird species like sparrows, pigeons, and robins, while the Woodruff pathways attract pollinators, contributing to the site’s biodiversity. These features integrate ecological inclusion into the design, supporting a thriving ecosystem alongside human activity.
Socially, the intervention has created a space for connection. Children engage with play structures, walkers enjoy clear and accessible paths, and the library invites moments of learning and reflection. Events like the We Shine Festival or seasonal gatherings have found a new home, with the terrace and shaded area providing flexible spaces for communal use.
Reflections on the Process
This project was rooted in rhythmanalysis, a method of observing the hidden flows of the site. By listening to these rhythms—from the sway of tree branches to the footsteps of commuters—the author was able to design an intervention that feels natural and intuitive. Theoretical influences, including Jane Bennett’s thing-power and feminist perspectives, added depth, shaping a design that values inclusivity, care, and the agency of materials.
The making process brought these ideas to life. From dismantling the artifact to experimenting with compositions, each step informed the final intervention. Every element—from the telescopes to the nesting boxes—was chosen with intention, balancing ecological and human needs.
Future Possibilities
This intervention is not static; it’s a space that will evolve with time. In summer, it offers shade and play; in winter, it becomes a place of quiet reflection. The terrace can host light installations during the We Shine Festival, while workshops and events bring year-round engagement. As seasons shift and rhythms change, the space will continue to adapt, always responding to its users and environment.
A Living System
This treehouse-inspired design is more than an architectural intervention; it’s a celebration of rhythm, connection, and care. By amplifying the site’s existing qualities, it creates a space where humans and nonhumans can coexist harmoniously. The courtyard now breathes with life, shaped by the rhythms of all who pass through.
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