ALNEY ISLAND Desktop Study & Abstract Mosaic

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As I embark on my third year at University, I've come to realise that change is not just a choice but a necessity for personal growth. People are often categorised as either thinkers or doers and during my first two years of study, I discovered that I find myself firmly planted in the thinkers category, which can be a challenge when tasks demand action. However, I've also learned that part of the design process involves embracing imperfections, exploring numerous ideas rapidly, and expressing creativity through visual representations that evolve and inspire throughout the journey.

In our latest design endeavor, Design Project 3, we are turning our attention to Alney Island, a fascinating site located between two branches of the River Severn as it flows through Gloucester. Alney Island boasts a rich history, but today it is carefully managed as an 80 hectare wetland Nature Reserve, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Gloucestershire County Council and the Friends of Alney Island.

Our initial step in the design process is the essential Desktop Study, a critical phase where we delve into the heart of Alney Island's landscape. Through this study, we embark on a creative exploration, constructing an abstract mosaic of the land's intricate features. Alney Island's landscape is distinctively characterised by agricultural land, woodland, wet grasslands and meadows unconventionally positioned 1km from the city centre. Can you distinguish these features?

In the upcoming stages of our journey, we will delve deeper into Alney Island's history, ecology, and unique characteristics, striving to develop innovative and sustainable landscape architecture designs that honor its past while envisioning its future. Stay tuned as we continue to unravel the mysteries and potentials of this unique site.

Credit and appreciation to my talented group members, Katie Bishop and Kaci Parnell 😋

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