The Brief

We were put into groups of 5 and assigned an object to research and reimagine in a post growth future. My group had been assigned concrete for this project.

Our Response

We could either transform concrete into something less harmful, or have a future completely free of it. We decided to imagine a future where concrete is recycled in a better way and used to create ecodomes for the good of nature and humanity.

Initial Research & Ideation

image description
image description
image description
Above: Illustrations of the ideas by Georgia Papworth & Lene Clapp.

Our initial research into concrete showed us the enormous amount of damage it does to the environment. The production of concrete is responsible for 8% of global carbon emissions per year. Aside from the production of fresh concrete, recycled concrete isn’t considered safe to use in large scale projects, hindering its sustainability. We investigated creating sustainable communities through recycling concrete and using more sustainable alternatives. We had 3 main ideas, all using sustainable materials.

These were our three: sustainable communities, creating urban community gardens and creating a new type of ecodome. We settled on developing the idea of creating an ecodome using sustainable materials.

Concept Generation

image description
image description
image description
Above: Concept planning for the dome.

After the initial idea we then narrowed our focus on conceptualising eco domes for endangered animals made from Timbercrete. Timbercrete is created solely from waste timber and concrete. It is also safe to use in large scale projects.

The reasoning behind the use of Timbercrete is that it can be made from local waste material, such as old brick, concrete and sawdust. This makes it energy efficient and cost effective meaning it is always avaliable to be made without having to import material.

Our Imaginary

Derelict buildings are transformed into biodiverse spaces, housing endangered species like birds, bees, and hedgehogs. These Timbercrete domes made from recycled concrete replace unused structures, creating thriving ecosystems in urban areas.
Nature flourishes as communities reconnect with wildlife and green spaces. Education focuses on biodiversity, sustainability, DIY skills, and mindfulness practices like yoga, encouraging a holistic connection with nature.
This space nurtures future generations, blending relaxation, learning, and well-being. It marks a new era where humanity embraces sustainable living and harmony with the natural world.

Design Outcomes

image description
Above: Logo design by Emma Proudley & Georgia Papworth.
image description
Above: 3D Render of final outcome by myself.
image description
Above: Branding mockups done by Georgia Papworth.

The overall concept is trash turned to treasure, sustainable ecodomes that help to heal humanities broken bonds heal and nature thrive. The branding came through very nicely with the logo markings relating to the dome, giving a strong sense of identity.

Presentation

Here I have added in our group's final presenatation showcasing the entirety of this project. This was presented to Imagination as a group, where we recived very positive feedback. This project was created in collaboration with Emma Proudley, Lene Clapp, Georgia Papworth, Ella Wye and myself. I was responsible for the 3D modelling of the dome, the material and biodiveristy research and the concept generation.