THE SOCIAL LAGOON

In this project, I explore the ever-fascinating biodiversity in Limehouse. My main focus shifts to a surprisingly misrepresented group, the seabirds. I work to learn how an area so close to and incorporated with the water as Limehouse has managed to neglect one of the most visible species in the area. The Social Lagoon is a structure created in two parts; the first was a manmade lagoon that houses specialised habitats for both burrowing and wetland species of water birds, two species most affected by the hostile conditions in the Thames River. The second is a sensory seaside and waterbird museum, used to educate, engage and enrich the local knowledge of waterbirds and other animals affected like them in Limehouse. This space was crafted as a social condenser, aiming to use the architecture I constructed to influence social behaviour, draw people to my site, and involve themselves in its experiences.