Architectural research project of experimental prototypes for a living architecture installation.
Aaward: Responsible Disruptors Award (Metropolis Magazine)
Grant: Lanaudière Territorial Partnership Program and the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec
Human beings have always been inspired by nature. This reflex is particularly evident in architecture, where forms, patterns, structural or organizational principles inspired by natural phenomena have been constantly incorporated.
In recent years, numerous scientific studies have confirmed the intuition of its vital contribution to our physical and psychological well-being.
Many symbiotic relationships with living plants have been developed without endangering their survival. For example:
- feeding on fruits or other non-vital parts;
- by weaving root bridges;
- forming living fences (hedgelaying);
- removing parts of trees without killing them.
Project Description - To design, plant and grow an architectural object made of willow in the public space of the village of Saint-Alphonse-Rodriguez.
The project, carried out in collaboration with the municipality and a local willow producer, was made possible by a grant from the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec and the regional county municipalities of Lanaudière (MRC de Lanaudière).
This civic structure is part of an applied research on living plant architecture and its environmental, formal, spatial, bioclimatic, artistic and functional possibilities. By valuing the natural and community ecosystem, the installation is part of current experiments in regenerative design.The project serves to mark, enhance and define the village center as well as provide protection from the elements (sun, wind, rain). The completed installation serves as a sculptural signage element, shelter and community gathering place.
By using a natural material that evolves with the seasons, the construction is both singular and familiar. The lighting ambiances, the smells, the movement of the leaves, create a multi-sensory universe.
Material - Fast growing willow.
Willow is grown in the field by a local company for biomass and phytoremediation.
The branches, which can grow up to 7 meters long, are harvested from the field in the fall and stored frozen all winter. In the spring, they are planted in the ground where they come to life as giant cuttings.
These trees require little care and, in addition to their ability to combat climate change, they create habitat for wildlife.
Impacts - Strengthen the heart of the village of Saint Alphonsus Rodriguez.
- The project occupies an underutilized space in front of the library and is part of a proposed new pedestrian connection between the plaza and the athletic fields. The project will be completed in the spring of 2022 with the development of the pedestrian connection and installation of street furniture.
- Create a meeting place for daily life and special events in the village.
- A group of volunteers has been formed to assist with the set up and maintenance of the structure.
- To develop the potential of bio-architecture as an alternative to certain constructions and to demonstrate its positive impact on the environments in which it is inserted. This project is a first step, a prototype, paving the way for larger projects.
- Demonstrate that neighborhoods and public spaces that contribute to community life and a sense of belonging can also be developed outside of urban centers.
This project was made possible by a grant from the Lanaudière territorial partnership program and the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec.
Recipient of a Disruptors In Architecture 2023 award (Metropolis Magazine), which highlights architecture and technology projects that represent an advance in areas such as sustainability, health and equity.
