Project Review: Mutabilis.

Eco-district of the Ile de la Marne: Mutabilis.

This project, located in Noisy-le-Grand, northern France, is a district-wide urban design development. I selected it due to its brief of creating an eco-centred design. I felt that it may, therefore, be a useful precedent project or our current uni project of producing a biophilic development design. 

The project uses SUD's systems, such as permeable pavements and rain gardens, in response to the site's hydrology strategy.  This demonstrates a forward-thinking, environmentally-conscious approach to functional design. I will consider the use of these features in my biophilic design project. 

One of the key features of this design is its emphasis on biodiversity. Native plants are incorporated throughout the site, in a variety of planting styles, helping to restore natural habitats while enhancing the overall aesthetic of the district. The design designates specific areas as specific habitats, such as the Bird Park, which acts on the design rationale of providing habitat for birds. This breaks down the human-headed hierarchy, that is presumed in design and society in general, creating, instead, an environment where the needs of nature and wildlife are positioned above those of humans. This is a rationale that I would like to carry forward, as a consideration, in my landscape architecture career. 

                                             

Project found at: https://mutabilis-paysage.com/projet/ecoquartier-ile-de-la-marne/