Reconnecting with nature
The Seed Pavilion
The Seed Pavilion: Seeding New Connections
The Seed Pavilion is a participatory ecological art project that reimagines community connection to Glenbower Wood. Through workshops, ecological innovation, and sustainable design, the pavilion embodies themes of regeneration, collaboration, and stewardship. It serves as a bridge between art and nature, promoting biodiversity and inspiring reflection on the cultural and ecological significance and legacy of a community-owned woodland.
Ireland
Local
Killeagh, Co. Cork
It addresses urban-rural linkages
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
Yes
2024-05-06
No
No
No
As a representative of an organisation, in partnership with other organisations
The Seed Pavilion fosters a deeper connection to Glenbower Wood, a community-owned woodland, by blending art and ecology to inspire stewardship, promote sustainability, and reimagine its cultural and ecological value.
Target Groups:
Local residents, schools, artists, community organisations, the Glenbower Wood and Lake Committee, and volunteers committed to the woodland’s future.
Specific Objectives:
Raise awareness of Glenbower Wood’s ecological and cultural significance.
Empower the community to co-create sustainable stewardship practices.
Demonstrate circular design and rewilding innovation through participatory art.
Tackle biodiversity threats, such as invasive species, with creative interventions.
Create a platform for ongoing community dialogue about Glenbower’s future.
Achieved Outcomes:
A co-designed pavilion constructed from reusable materials with biodegradable seed-infused elements, contributing to rewilding efforts.
A new community seed nursery established in collaboration with ecological experts.
A public space for workshops, ecological education, and community discussions.
Enhanced community engagement with Glenbower Wood’s challenges and future vision.
Catalyst for a three year creative place-making initiative "Seeing the Wood for the Trees".
The project embodies NEB values:
Sustainability: Circular economy principles and rewilding through native seeds.
Inclusion: Participatory design engaged diverse community members.
Aesthetics: A design inspired by local culture and nature, fostering belonging.
The Seed Pavilion improves quality of life by inspiring ecological stewardship, fostering creative collaboration, and reconnecting the community to their shared natural heritage.
Addressing Local Challenges
Glenbower Wood faces threats from invasive species and declining community awareness of its value. The project addressed these by fostering the community’s reconnection with the woodland.
Target Groups:
Local residents, schools, artists, community organisations, the Glenbower Wood and Lake Committee, and volunteers committed to the woodland’s future.
Specific Objectives:
Raise awareness of Glenbower Wood’s ecological and cultural significance.
Empower the community to co-create sustainable stewardship practices.
Demonstrate circular design and rewilding innovation through participatory art.
Tackle biodiversity threats, such as invasive species, with creative interventions.
Create a platform for ongoing community dialogue about Glenbower’s future.
Achieved Outcomes:
A co-designed pavilion constructed from reusable materials with biodegradable seed-infused elements, contributing to rewilding efforts.
A new community seed nursery established in collaboration with ecological experts.
A public space for workshops, ecological education, and community discussions.
Enhanced community engagement with Glenbower Wood’s challenges and future vision.
Catalyst for a three year creative place-making initiative "Seeing the Wood for the Trees".
The project embodies NEB values:
Sustainability: Circular economy principles and rewilding through native seeds.
Inclusion: Participatory design engaged diverse community members.
Aesthetics: A design inspired by local culture and nature, fostering belonging.
The Seed Pavilion improves quality of life by inspiring ecological stewardship, fostering creative collaboration, and reconnecting the community to their shared natural heritage.
Addressing Local Challenges
Glenbower Wood faces threats from invasive species and declining community awareness of its value. The project addressed these by fostering the community’s reconnection with the woodland.
Ecological Stewardship
Community Engagement
Biodiversity
Circular Design
Regeneration
The Seed Pavilion exemplifies sustainability by integrating circular design principles, ecological regeneration, and community participation. It was designed to minimise environmental impact while actively contributing to Glenbower Wood’s biodiversity and resilience.
Key Objectives in Sustainability and How They Were Met:
Circular Design:
The pavilion was constructed using timber pallets and a bespoke clamping system that allowed complete disassembly. After the project’s completion, the materials were returned to the supply chain, preventing waste and promoting resource circularity.
Ecological Contribution:
Biodegradable paints and glues infused with native seeds were used in the construction. Once dismantled, these materials were planted in a newly established tree nursery, creating a direct ecological benefit by contributing to reforestation efforts.
Addressing Biodiversity Challenges:
The project tackled Glenbower Wood’s biodiversity threats, particularly from invasive Cherry Laurel. The community explored creative uses for this species, repurposing it into functional objects like furniture. This approach demonstrated how invasive species could be turned from ecological liabilities into resources, promoting innovative and sustainable solutions.
Engaging with Nature-Based Solutions:
By collaborating with ecological experts and local organisations, the project promoted sustainable practices such as rewilding and habitat restoration. These efforts enhanced Glenbower Wood’s ecological health while empowering the community to adopt long-term sustainable management strategies.
Exemplary Character in Sustainability:
The Seed Pavilion serves as a model for sustainability by embedding regeneration and circularity into every aspect of its design and implementation. It demonstrates that temporary artistic interventions can leave lasting ecological impacts, contributing to long-term biodiversity while inspiring sustainable practices.
Key Objectives in Sustainability and How They Were Met:
Circular Design:
The pavilion was constructed using timber pallets and a bespoke clamping system that allowed complete disassembly. After the project’s completion, the materials were returned to the supply chain, preventing waste and promoting resource circularity.
Ecological Contribution:
Biodegradable paints and glues infused with native seeds were used in the construction. Once dismantled, these materials were planted in a newly established tree nursery, creating a direct ecological benefit by contributing to reforestation efforts.
Addressing Biodiversity Challenges:
The project tackled Glenbower Wood’s biodiversity threats, particularly from invasive Cherry Laurel. The community explored creative uses for this species, repurposing it into functional objects like furniture. This approach demonstrated how invasive species could be turned from ecological liabilities into resources, promoting innovative and sustainable solutions.
Engaging with Nature-Based Solutions:
By collaborating with ecological experts and local organisations, the project promoted sustainable practices such as rewilding and habitat restoration. These efforts enhanced Glenbower Wood’s ecological health while empowering the community to adopt long-term sustainable management strategies.
Exemplary Character in Sustainability:
The Seed Pavilion serves as a model for sustainability by embedding regeneration and circularity into every aspect of its design and implementation. It demonstrates that temporary artistic interventions can leave lasting ecological impacts, contributing to long-term biodiversity while inspiring sustainable practices.
The Seed Pavilion integrates aesthetics and cultural benefits to create meaningful and inspiring experiences for individuals and communities. Its design connects people emotionally and culturally to Glenbower Wood, enhancing their appreciation of its natural beauty and cultural significance.
Key Objectives in Aesthetics and Quality of Experience and How They Were Met:
Harmonising Design with Nature:
Constructed from timber pallets, the pavilion’s simple, organic design reflected the raw beauty of the woodland, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Visitors were invited to engage with their environment, fostering a sensory and visual connection to the landscape.
Inspiration from Cultural Heritage:
Drawing from the Celtic Wheel of the Year, the pavilion linked its structure and purpose to seasonal rhythms and traditional land stewardship. This cultural grounding fostered a sense of belonging and integrated historical and ecological narratives into the design.
Aesthetic as Experience:
Beyond visual appeal, the pavilion became an interactive space during the May Sunday Festival, hosting workshops, storytelling, and reflection. Visitors shared their impressions of the woodland, enhancing the participatory and emotional impact of the space.
Symbolism and Regeneration:
Biodegradable materials infused with native seeds embodied themes of renewal and regeneration, giving the pavilion a symbolic purpose beyond its physical presence and reinforcing its role as a catalyst for ecological and cultural growth.
Exemplary Character in Aesthetics:
The Seed Pavilion demonstrates how thoughtful design can bridge art, ecology, and community. Its seamless integration with nature, cultural resonance, and interactive experiences serve as a model for inspiring engagement, transforming a temporary structure into a lasting cultural memory that deepens appreciation for Glenbower Wood.
Key Objectives in Aesthetics and Quality of Experience and How They Were Met:
Harmonising Design with Nature:
Constructed from timber pallets, the pavilion’s simple, organic design reflected the raw beauty of the woodland, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Visitors were invited to engage with their environment, fostering a sensory and visual connection to the landscape.
Inspiration from Cultural Heritage:
Drawing from the Celtic Wheel of the Year, the pavilion linked its structure and purpose to seasonal rhythms and traditional land stewardship. This cultural grounding fostered a sense of belonging and integrated historical and ecological narratives into the design.
Aesthetic as Experience:
Beyond visual appeal, the pavilion became an interactive space during the May Sunday Festival, hosting workshops, storytelling, and reflection. Visitors shared their impressions of the woodland, enhancing the participatory and emotional impact of the space.
Symbolism and Regeneration:
Biodegradable materials infused with native seeds embodied themes of renewal and regeneration, giving the pavilion a symbolic purpose beyond its physical presence and reinforcing its role as a catalyst for ecological and cultural growth.
Exemplary Character in Aesthetics:
The Seed Pavilion demonstrates how thoughtful design can bridge art, ecology, and community. Its seamless integration with nature, cultural resonance, and interactive experiences serve as a model for inspiring engagement, transforming a temporary structure into a lasting cultural memory that deepens appreciation for Glenbower Wood.
The Seed Pavilion prioritised inclusion by embedding accessibility, affordability, and participatory governance into its design and implementation. It actively engaged diverse groups to ensure that the project was both reflective of and responsive to the needs of the entire community.
Key Objectives in Inclusion:
Affordability for the Community:
The project embraced cost-effective and sustainable materials, such as repurposed timber pallets, to minimise expenses while maximising impact. This approach ensured that resources were used efficiently, demonstrating that inclusion and sustainability can align with affordability.
Inclusive Governance and Co-Creation:
The Seed Pavilion employed participatory processes to ensure community ownership of the project. Workshops invited input from diverse groups, including local schools, retirement groups, artists, and committee members. This co-creation process fostered a sense of collective responsibility and representation, empowering participants to shape their woodland’s future.
Bridging Generational and Knowledge Gaps:
The project brought together ecological experts, local community members, and younger generations to collaborate and exchange knowledge. By combining traditional ecological wisdom with new ideas, the project built intergenerational bridges and strengthened communal ties.
Promoting New Societal Models:
The project demonstrated how community-led initiatives can promote environmental stewardship, participatory governance, and social cohesion. By encouraging collaborative decision-making and fostering ecological responsibility, the Seed Pavilion showcased an inclusive societal model that can be replicated elsewhere.
Exemplary Character in Inclusion:
The Seed Pavilion exemplifies inclusion by creating a space and process where all voices mattered. It fostered a sense of belonging and empowerment through participatory governance, accessible design, and affordable implementation.
Key Objectives in Inclusion:
Affordability for the Community:
The project embraced cost-effective and sustainable materials, such as repurposed timber pallets, to minimise expenses while maximising impact. This approach ensured that resources were used efficiently, demonstrating that inclusion and sustainability can align with affordability.
Inclusive Governance and Co-Creation:
The Seed Pavilion employed participatory processes to ensure community ownership of the project. Workshops invited input from diverse groups, including local schools, retirement groups, artists, and committee members. This co-creation process fostered a sense of collective responsibility and representation, empowering participants to shape their woodland’s future.
Bridging Generational and Knowledge Gaps:
The project brought together ecological experts, local community members, and younger generations to collaborate and exchange knowledge. By combining traditional ecological wisdom with new ideas, the project built intergenerational bridges and strengthened communal ties.
Promoting New Societal Models:
The project demonstrated how community-led initiatives can promote environmental stewardship, participatory governance, and social cohesion. By encouraging collaborative decision-making and fostering ecological responsibility, the Seed Pavilion showcased an inclusive societal model that can be replicated elsewhere.
Exemplary Character in Inclusion:
The Seed Pavilion exemplifies inclusion by creating a space and process where all voices mattered. It fostered a sense of belonging and empowerment through participatory governance, accessible design, and affordable implementation.
The Seed Pavilion prioritised participatory processes at every stage, ensuring the active involvement of citizens and civil society. This approach reflected the community’s values, concerns, and aspirations while fostering a sense of ownership and shared responsibility.
Citizen and Civil Society Involvement:
Co-Design and Collaboration:
Local citizens, schools, artists, and community groups were invited to co-design the pavilion through hands-on workshops, including vision-boarding, model-making, and material experimentation. This inclusive process ensured diverse voices shaped the final design, encouraging creativity and dialogue.
Ecological Stewardship:
The participatory approach extended to ecological activities. Community members collaborated with experts to plant native seeds from the pavilion’s biodegradable materials and establish a seed nursery. These activities provided practical learning opportunities and deepened understanding of biodiversity and restoration.
Dialogue and Reflection:
During the May Sunday Festival, the pavilion served as a space for workshops and public dialogue. Participants shared their connections to Glenbower Wood and discussed its future, shaping subsequent initiatives such as tackling invasive species and reimagining woodland management.
Impact of Participatory Processes:
Community involvement was central to the project’s success. It deepened engagement with Glenbower Wood, encouraged intergenerational collaboration, and empowered participants to take active roles in stewardship. The participatory approach also strengthened relationships between the Glenbower Wood and Lake Committee, local organisations, and residents, fostering a shared sense of purpose and responsibility.
Exemplary Character:
By placing participatory processes at its core, The Seed Pavilion highlights how inclusive engagement can lead to innovative and meaningful outcomes through co-creation of nature-first solutions.
Citizen and Civil Society Involvement:
Co-Design and Collaboration:
Local citizens, schools, artists, and community groups were invited to co-design the pavilion through hands-on workshops, including vision-boarding, model-making, and material experimentation. This inclusive process ensured diverse voices shaped the final design, encouraging creativity and dialogue.
Ecological Stewardship:
The participatory approach extended to ecological activities. Community members collaborated with experts to plant native seeds from the pavilion’s biodegradable materials and establish a seed nursery. These activities provided practical learning opportunities and deepened understanding of biodiversity and restoration.
Dialogue and Reflection:
During the May Sunday Festival, the pavilion served as a space for workshops and public dialogue. Participants shared their connections to Glenbower Wood and discussed its future, shaping subsequent initiatives such as tackling invasive species and reimagining woodland management.
Impact of Participatory Processes:
Community involvement was central to the project’s success. It deepened engagement with Glenbower Wood, encouraged intergenerational collaboration, and empowered participants to take active roles in stewardship. The participatory approach also strengthened relationships between the Glenbower Wood and Lake Committee, local organisations, and residents, fostering a shared sense of purpose and responsibility.
Exemplary Character:
By placing participatory processes at its core, The Seed Pavilion highlights how inclusive engagement can lead to innovative and meaningful outcomes through co-creation of nature-first solutions.
The Seed Pavilion successfully engaged stakeholders at local, regional, national, and European levels, ensuring a rich and diverse collaboration that enhanced the project’s design, implementation, and impact.
1. Local Stakeholders:
Community Members: Residents, schools, and local artists actively participated in co-design workshops, where they contributed ideas, created models, and shared perspectives on Glenbower Wood’s future. Their involvement ensured the project reflected local needs and aspirations, fostering a sense of ownership.
Glenbower Wood and Lake Committee: As stewards of the woodland, the committee played a key advisory role, providing historical and ecological insights.
Local Businesses: Local suppliers contributed to the sourcing of materials, helping to strengthen the project’s commitment to sustainability and community integration.
2. Regional Stakeholders:
Greywood Arts: As the commissioning body, Greywood Arts provided logistical support and served as a cultural hub for community engagement activities. Their regional networks amplified the project’s reach and visibility.
3. National Stakeholders:
Arts Council of Ireland: The project received funding through the Festivals programme of the Arts Council of Ireland, which supported its participatory and ecological methodologies. Their involvement ensured alignment with broader national priorities for community-led art and sustainability.
National Ecological Experts: Experts from the Gaelic Woodland Project and Hometree Charity led workshops on biodiversity, invasive species, and sustainable practices, empowering the community with actionable ecological knowledge.
Added Value of Multi-Level Engagement:
The integration of stakeholders at different levels enriched the project by combining local knowledge with regional expertise and national frameworks. This multi-level collaboration ensured the pavilion was not only responsive to local challenges but aligned with broader civic objectives.
1. Local Stakeholders:
Community Members: Residents, schools, and local artists actively participated in co-design workshops, where they contributed ideas, created models, and shared perspectives on Glenbower Wood’s future. Their involvement ensured the project reflected local needs and aspirations, fostering a sense of ownership.
Glenbower Wood and Lake Committee: As stewards of the woodland, the committee played a key advisory role, providing historical and ecological insights.
Local Businesses: Local suppliers contributed to the sourcing of materials, helping to strengthen the project’s commitment to sustainability and community integration.
2. Regional Stakeholders:
Greywood Arts: As the commissioning body, Greywood Arts provided logistical support and served as a cultural hub for community engagement activities. Their regional networks amplified the project’s reach and visibility.
3. National Stakeholders:
Arts Council of Ireland: The project received funding through the Festivals programme of the Arts Council of Ireland, which supported its participatory and ecological methodologies. Their involvement ensured alignment with broader national priorities for community-led art and sustainability.
National Ecological Experts: Experts from the Gaelic Woodland Project and Hometree Charity led workshops on biodiversity, invasive species, and sustainable practices, empowering the community with actionable ecological knowledge.
Added Value of Multi-Level Engagement:
The integration of stakeholders at different levels enriched the project by combining local knowledge with regional expertise and national frameworks. This multi-level collaboration ensured the pavilion was not only responsive to local challenges but aligned with broader civic objectives.
The Seed Pavilion integrated a transdisciplinary approach, combining art, ecology, design, and community engagement to create a meaningful and impactful project.
Disciplines and Knowledge Fields:
Art and Creativity: Artists ensured the pavilion was aesthetically engaging and participatory, using co-design workshops to reflect local creativity and values.
Ecology and Environmental Science: Ecologists provided insights on biodiversity, invasive species, and sustainable practices, directly influencing the pavilion’s design, such as the use of biodegradable, seed-infused materials.
Community Development: Engagement specialists facilitated inclusive workshops, ensuring broad participation and empowering the community to take an active role in ecological stewardship.
Education: Schools and youth groups participated in activities, fostering environmental awareness and creativity in younger generations.
Sustainability and Circular Design: The project demonstrated circular economy principles by using reusable materials and designing the pavilion for complete disassembly and reintegration into the supply chain.
Interaction Between Fields:
Artists, ecologists, and community members collaborated through participatory workshops and discussions. Ecological insights informed the artistic use of sustainable materials, while community feedback shaped the pavilion’s design and purpose. These interactions created shared ownership and ensured the project was both ecologically robust and culturally resonant.
Added Value:
The transdisciplinary process enhanced innovation and impact. Artists gained ecological insights, ecologists saw creative solutions in action, and community members actively engaged with both fields. This collaboration resulted in a project that united aesthetics, sustainability, and cultural significance, serving as a replicable model for community-led ecological interventions.
Disciplines and Knowledge Fields:
Art and Creativity: Artists ensured the pavilion was aesthetically engaging and participatory, using co-design workshops to reflect local creativity and values.
Ecology and Environmental Science: Ecologists provided insights on biodiversity, invasive species, and sustainable practices, directly influencing the pavilion’s design, such as the use of biodegradable, seed-infused materials.
Community Development: Engagement specialists facilitated inclusive workshops, ensuring broad participation and empowering the community to take an active role in ecological stewardship.
Education: Schools and youth groups participated in activities, fostering environmental awareness and creativity in younger generations.
Sustainability and Circular Design: The project demonstrated circular economy principles by using reusable materials and designing the pavilion for complete disassembly and reintegration into the supply chain.
Interaction Between Fields:
Artists, ecologists, and community members collaborated through participatory workshops and discussions. Ecological insights informed the artistic use of sustainable materials, while community feedback shaped the pavilion’s design and purpose. These interactions created shared ownership and ensured the project was both ecologically robust and culturally resonant.
Added Value:
The transdisciplinary process enhanced innovation and impact. Artists gained ecological insights, ecologists saw creative solutions in action, and community members actively engaged with both fields. This collaboration resulted in a project that united aesthetics, sustainability, and cultural significance, serving as a replicable model for community-led ecological interventions.
The Seed Pavilion breaks away from mainstream approaches to community engagement and ecological restoration by integrating art, circular design, and participatory processes. Its nature-first and legacy-focused approach demonstrates a fresh way of addressing biodiversity challenges, fostering cultural connection, and empowering communities.
1. Circular Design in Temporary Structures:
Unlike conventional festival structures, the Seed Pavilion acted as a demonstrator for sustainable design by extending its own remit. Constructed with timber pallets and a clamping system, it allowed full disassembly and reintegration into the logistics supply chain. This circular design minimised waste and showcased how temporary structures can be both reusable and environmentally conscious, a concept rarely adopted in mainstream actions.
2. Seed-Infused Biodegradable Materials:
Biodegradable materials infused with native seeds made the pavilion uniquely impactful. Once dismantled, these materials were planted in a newly established seed nursery. This approach reduced the environmental footprint while linking the pavilion’s lifecycle to tangible ecological benefits.
3. Participatory and Multi-Disciplinary Approach:
Unlike top-down initiatives, the project was co-created with the local community through participatory workshops, embedding local culture and values into the project. This inclusive, citizen-led innovation set a benchmark for community engagement.
4. Bridging Ecology and Culture:
Inspired by the Celtic Wheel of the Year, the project linked cultural heritage to ecological action. This unique framework fostered a deeper connection to seasonal rhythms and traditional practices.
Exemplary Innovation:
The Seed Pavilion reimagines how communities engage with ecological challenges and cultural heritage. By merging art, sustainability, and participation, it is a replicable model for creative, inclusive, and environmentally conscious actions
1. Circular Design in Temporary Structures:
Unlike conventional festival structures, the Seed Pavilion acted as a demonstrator for sustainable design by extending its own remit. Constructed with timber pallets and a clamping system, it allowed full disassembly and reintegration into the logistics supply chain. This circular design minimised waste and showcased how temporary structures can be both reusable and environmentally conscious, a concept rarely adopted in mainstream actions.
2. Seed-Infused Biodegradable Materials:
Biodegradable materials infused with native seeds made the pavilion uniquely impactful. Once dismantled, these materials were planted in a newly established seed nursery. This approach reduced the environmental footprint while linking the pavilion’s lifecycle to tangible ecological benefits.
3. Participatory and Multi-Disciplinary Approach:
Unlike top-down initiatives, the project was co-created with the local community through participatory workshops, embedding local culture and values into the project. This inclusive, citizen-led innovation set a benchmark for community engagement.
4. Bridging Ecology and Culture:
Inspired by the Celtic Wheel of the Year, the project linked cultural heritage to ecological action. This unique framework fostered a deeper connection to seasonal rhythms and traditional practices.
Exemplary Innovation:
The Seed Pavilion reimagines how communities engage with ecological challenges and cultural heritage. By merging art, sustainability, and participation, it is a replicable model for creative, inclusive, and environmentally conscious actions
The Seed Pavilion utilised an interdisciplinary, participatory, and site-responsive methodology that combined art, ecological science, and community engagement to achieve its objectives. The approach ensured the project was sustainable, inclusive, and reflective of the community’s values.
1. Participatory Co-Design Process:
The project prioritised co-creation by actively involving local citizens, schools, artists, and ecological experts throughout the design process. Through participatory workshops, activities such as vision-boarding, model-making, and material experimentation enabled diverse stakeholders to shape the pavilion’s design and purpose.
2. Integration of Ecological Science:
Ecological experts collaborated with the community to provide knowledge on biodiversity, rewilding, and invasive species management. This knowledge directly informed the project, including the use of seed-infused biodegradable materials and the establishment of a seed nursery. The methodology ensured that the pavilion’s lifecycle contributed to Glenbower Wood’s ecological restoration.
3. Circular Design Principles:
The pavilion was built using reusable timber pallets and a bespoke clamping system, allowing complete disassembly and reintegration into the logistics supply chain. This approach minimised waste and demonstrated how temporary structures can embody circular economy principles, setting an example for sustainable design.
4. Cultural and Contextual Sensitivity:
The project drew inspiration from the Celtic Wheel of the Year, embedding cultural heritage and seasonal rhythms into its design. This framework created a deeper sense of connection to the woodland and its traditions, making the pavilion a meaningful and site-specific intervention.
Innovative and Scalable Methodology:
This holistic approach and methodology integrated participatory design, ecological innovation, and cultural relevance, creating a replicable model for similar projects.
1. Participatory Co-Design Process:
The project prioritised co-creation by actively involving local citizens, schools, artists, and ecological experts throughout the design process. Through participatory workshops, activities such as vision-boarding, model-making, and material experimentation enabled diverse stakeholders to shape the pavilion’s design and purpose.
2. Integration of Ecological Science:
Ecological experts collaborated with the community to provide knowledge on biodiversity, rewilding, and invasive species management. This knowledge directly informed the project, including the use of seed-infused biodegradable materials and the establishment of a seed nursery. The methodology ensured that the pavilion’s lifecycle contributed to Glenbower Wood’s ecological restoration.
3. Circular Design Principles:
The pavilion was built using reusable timber pallets and a bespoke clamping system, allowing complete disassembly and reintegration into the logistics supply chain. This approach minimised waste and demonstrated how temporary structures can embody circular economy principles, setting an example for sustainable design.
4. Cultural and Contextual Sensitivity:
The project drew inspiration from the Celtic Wheel of the Year, embedding cultural heritage and seasonal rhythms into its design. This framework created a deeper sense of connection to the woodland and its traditions, making the pavilion a meaningful and site-specific intervention.
Innovative and Scalable Methodology:
This holistic approach and methodology integrated participatory design, ecological innovation, and cultural relevance, creating a replicable model for similar projects.
The Seed Pavilion incorporates methodologies, processes, and outcomes that can be easily adapted to different locations, groups, and contexts. Its innovative approach demonstrates how art, ecology, and community engagement can be scaled to address shared challenges.
1. Circular Design for Temporary Structures:
The use of timber pallets and a clamping system for full disassembly and reuse minimised waste and showcased circular economy principles. This process can be replicated for temporary structures in festivals, community spaces, or ecological interventions.
2. Seed-Infused Biodegradable Materials:
The inclusion of native seeds in biodegradable materials offers a scalable method for combining ecological restoration with artistic projects. This innovation can be adapted to rewilding efforts globally by tailoring seed selection to local ecosystems.
3. Participatory Methodology:
The co-creation process engaged stakeholders—residents, schools, and experts—through workshops and collaborative design. This inclusive approach can be replicated for projects requiring community ownership, from urban regeneration to conservation.
4. Bridging Culture and Ecology:
The pavilion’s integration of cultural narratives, inspired by the Celtic Wheel of the Year, demonstrated how local traditions can enhance ecological projects. This approach is adaptable to any cultural context, creating relevance and community connection.
5. Action-Based Learning:
Activities such as planting native seeds and repurposing invasive species provided practical ecological education. This hands-on approach can be transferred to biodiversity and land management projects worldwide.
6. Scalable and Holistic Impact:
The Seed Pavilion’s integration of art, sustainability, and cultural engagement offers a replicable template for fostering environmental awareness and action. Its adaptable design and participatory approach make it a versatile model for addressing biodiversity loss.
1. Circular Design for Temporary Structures:
The use of timber pallets and a clamping system for full disassembly and reuse minimised waste and showcased circular economy principles. This process can be replicated for temporary structures in festivals, community spaces, or ecological interventions.
2. Seed-Infused Biodegradable Materials:
The inclusion of native seeds in biodegradable materials offers a scalable method for combining ecological restoration with artistic projects. This innovation can be adapted to rewilding efforts globally by tailoring seed selection to local ecosystems.
3. Participatory Methodology:
The co-creation process engaged stakeholders—residents, schools, and experts—through workshops and collaborative design. This inclusive approach can be replicated for projects requiring community ownership, from urban regeneration to conservation.
4. Bridging Culture and Ecology:
The pavilion’s integration of cultural narratives, inspired by the Celtic Wheel of the Year, demonstrated how local traditions can enhance ecological projects. This approach is adaptable to any cultural context, creating relevance and community connection.
5. Action-Based Learning:
Activities such as planting native seeds and repurposing invasive species provided practical ecological education. This hands-on approach can be transferred to biodiversity and land management projects worldwide.
6. Scalable and Holistic Impact:
The Seed Pavilion’s integration of art, sustainability, and cultural engagement offers a replicable template for fostering environmental awareness and action. Its adaptable design and participatory approach make it a versatile model for addressing biodiversity loss.
The Seed Pavilion addresses pressing global challenges—biodiversity loss, climate change, and declining community engagement—by offering innovative and scalable local solutions rooted in ecological restoration, cultural connection, and participatory processes.
1. Biodiversity Loss:
The project tackled the global issue of declining biodiversity by contributing directly to the ecological restoration of Glenbower Wood. Native seed-infused biodegradable materials, used in the pavilion’s construction, were planted in a newly established community seed nursery. Additionally, the project sparked conversations regarding threats to biodiversity, acting as a catalyst for mobilisation relating to invasive species within the wood.
2. Climate Change and Sustainability:
The pavilion exemplified sustainable design by implementing circular economy principles. Its construction from reusable timber pallets and complete disassembly reduced waste and embodied a low-carbon approach. By integrating rewilding activities and encouraging nature-based solutions, the project highlighted how communities can adopt sustainable practices to combat global climate challenges.
3. Community Engagement in Environmental Stewardship:
Globally, communities often do not have the opportunity to have active participation in managing shared natural spaces. The Seed Pavilion addressed this by empowering local stakeholders through participatory workshops and hands-on ecological activities. Residents gained practical knowledge about biodiversity, rewilding, and sustainable land management, fostering long-term engagement and stewardship.
4. Loss of Connection to Cultural and Natural Heritage:
The project bridged ecological action with cultural heritage, using the Celtic Wheel of the Year to reconnect the community with seasonal rhythms and traditional land stewardship. This approach fostered a deeper appreciation for local heritage, a scalable model for strengthening cultural ties globally.
1. Biodiversity Loss:
The project tackled the global issue of declining biodiversity by contributing directly to the ecological restoration of Glenbower Wood. Native seed-infused biodegradable materials, used in the pavilion’s construction, were planted in a newly established community seed nursery. Additionally, the project sparked conversations regarding threats to biodiversity, acting as a catalyst for mobilisation relating to invasive species within the wood.
2. Climate Change and Sustainability:
The pavilion exemplified sustainable design by implementing circular economy principles. Its construction from reusable timber pallets and complete disassembly reduced waste and embodied a low-carbon approach. By integrating rewilding activities and encouraging nature-based solutions, the project highlighted how communities can adopt sustainable practices to combat global climate challenges.
3. Community Engagement in Environmental Stewardship:
Globally, communities often do not have the opportunity to have active participation in managing shared natural spaces. The Seed Pavilion addressed this by empowering local stakeholders through participatory workshops and hands-on ecological activities. Residents gained practical knowledge about biodiversity, rewilding, and sustainable land management, fostering long-term engagement and stewardship.
4. Loss of Connection to Cultural and Natural Heritage:
The project bridged ecological action with cultural heritage, using the Celtic Wheel of the Year to reconnect the community with seasonal rhythms and traditional land stewardship. This approach fostered a deeper appreciation for local heritage, a scalable model for strengthening cultural ties globally.
The Seed Pavilion achieved significant outcomes, benefiting both direct and indirect stakeholders and catalysing the three-year initiative Seeing the Wood for the Trees.
1. Ecological Outcomes:
The pavilion contributed to biodiversity by incorporating biodegradable, seed-infused materials planted in a new community seed nursery, promoting rewilding in Glenbower Wood.
It inspired renewed efforts in tackling invasive species within the woodland such as cherry laurel and rhododendron.
2. Cultural and Community Benefits:
As a gathering space during the May Sunday Festival, the pavilion hosted workshops and storytelling, strengthening community connections and raising awareness of Glenbower Wood’s cultural and ecological value.
Inspired by the Celtic Wheel of the Year, it reconnected the community with seasonal rhythms and traditional stewardship practices, fostering cultural pride and belonging.
3. Social and Educational Impact:
Participatory workshops engaged local residents, schools, and community groups, providing practical knowledge about biodiversity, rewilding, and sustainability.
Intergenerational collaboration bridged knowledge gaps, empowering participants to play active roles in the woodland’s care and future.
4. Catalyst for Long-Term Place-Making:
The project became a foundation for Seeing the Wood for the Trees, a three-year initiative blending art, ecology, and community engagement to address biodiversity challenges, cultural heritage, and sustainable stewardship.
Relationships with ecological experts and community stakeholders established during the pavilion continue to drive this ongoing initiative.
5. Broader Impacts:
Indirect beneficiaries include regional and national audiences inspired by the project’s innovative integration of art and ecology.
The pavilion provides a replicable model for other communities seeking to address biodiversity loss, engage citizens, and promote sustainability.
1. Ecological Outcomes:
The pavilion contributed to biodiversity by incorporating biodegradable, seed-infused materials planted in a new community seed nursery, promoting rewilding in Glenbower Wood.
It inspired renewed efforts in tackling invasive species within the woodland such as cherry laurel and rhododendron.
2. Cultural and Community Benefits:
As a gathering space during the May Sunday Festival, the pavilion hosted workshops and storytelling, strengthening community connections and raising awareness of Glenbower Wood’s cultural and ecological value.
Inspired by the Celtic Wheel of the Year, it reconnected the community with seasonal rhythms and traditional stewardship practices, fostering cultural pride and belonging.
3. Social and Educational Impact:
Participatory workshops engaged local residents, schools, and community groups, providing practical knowledge about biodiversity, rewilding, and sustainability.
Intergenerational collaboration bridged knowledge gaps, empowering participants to play active roles in the woodland’s care and future.
4. Catalyst for Long-Term Place-Making:
The project became a foundation for Seeing the Wood for the Trees, a three-year initiative blending art, ecology, and community engagement to address biodiversity challenges, cultural heritage, and sustainable stewardship.
Relationships with ecological experts and community stakeholders established during the pavilion continue to drive this ongoing initiative.
5. Broader Impacts:
Indirect beneficiaries include regional and national audiences inspired by the project’s innovative integration of art and ecology.
The pavilion provides a replicable model for other communities seeking to address biodiversity loss, engage citizens, and promote sustainability.
