DS%203.2

19th century German biologist Ernst Häckel defined ecology as ‘the comprehensive science of the relationship of the organism to the environment’ in which each living organism has an on-going and continual relationship with all elements’. We look at sustainability holistically, in regards to societal integrated projects within the community and within the natural environment. Students analysed patterns within the community, the built and natural environment, understanding the complex interplay between social, political, spatial and ecological relationships. The site is in Leyton in Waltham Forest, which is ‘the home of people who make and create’ and the childhood home of William Morris - designer, poet, novelist, translator and socialist activist – whose childhood home nearby has been transformed into an arts and crafts gallery. We engaged in public consultation with the council to better understand needs and aspirations of locals. Students then developed a community hub in semester 1 based on the initial research. This project ties in with our QHT funded ‘Let’s Build’ live project with the support from Waltham Forest Council. In semester 2 students explored their individually chosen ecology including the interconnectivity of the complex natural processes with the aim to integrate these into the architectural concept ideas. A hybrid programme of co-living and small businesses with third sector enterprises, such as community interest companies and start-ups, was developed.