This vision was to transform this small urban plot into a lush, regenerative food forest designed to be self-sustaining in terms of food, water, and energy. The design process started with a contour survey, undertaken by the design team. This was followed by studies of biodiversity, water, slope etc.

The main challenge here was that the plots surrounding the land were higher, essentially turning this parcel into a tank in high rainfall months. The water table is also quite high in the area, so central to the design was stormwater management, achieved through strategic earthworks to redirect, capture, and utilize water. The food forest, featuring native fruit trees and a dense living fence, serves as both a protective buffer and an oasis for local flora and fauna. Additionally, soil regeneration was prioritized, given the site’s contamination from construction waste. Built-up area was kept to a minimum, and the central raintree utilised as a space for a deck, which will eventually be replaced by a small home built with natural materials, once the trees are established.

Implementation phase

Initial implementation, like marking, digging + rock-lining of trenches and pond, clearing of invasives and planting of living fence was undertaken under the on-site guidance of the design team. After this initial phase, the client took the implementation forward independently, based on the maps, reports and details provided.