Amp Leaf

Introducing a new cycle of architecture eco-infrastructure that promotes the regeneration of local and native plant species within the Valldaura region.

Wind vibration energy acts as a platform for new dialogue between ecological systems and human interaction. AmpLeaf is a synthesised smart surface which is integrated into the anatomy of the forest to experiment from within using energy directly harvested from the ecosystem and its many agents rather than energy from existing power grids.

AMPLEAF: ECOLOGICAL RESONANCE

With the rise of a new generation of technologies capable of integration on a nano-level, we, as designers, are able to think about our environments on a different scale and recognise the emergent logic which can be tapped into for experimentation. This project aims to make sense of impacts on the ecosystem, encouraging birds and animals to gather around targeted flora and fauna native to (or marginalised from) the Valldaura region. The goal is to develop infrastructure that works in sync with existing systems, lessening the disparity between densities of biodiversity in the region and creating a richer, more competitive environment.

VALLDAURA SELF SUFFICIENT LABS

The site occupies an optimal spot for the exploration of biosphere rejuvenation through passive systems. Located in the Collserola National Park, it is one of many sites that have experienced a notable decrease in diversity of plant and animal life due to nearby development. Many studies by CERFA and the Park Consortium have correlated the subdivision and transformation of land with the marginalisation of specific species, their resulting relocation and, in some cases, disappearance from the area.

PROJECT OBJECTIVES:

Through simple, integrated and ecologically sensitive interventions, this project aims to catalyse the slow process of bio-regeneration. Conceptually, it follows four basic pillars of environmental design:

  • Environmental Infrastructure: Targeting native species of flora and fauna with the purpose of enhancing biological phenomena such as pollination, zoochory (dispersal by seeds), and biotic fertilisation.
  • Passive Energy Systems: Applying energy directly back into the environment from which it is derived without the need for external sources. This will lead to the development of a framework for future growth.
  • Multi-Functionality: Use of adaptable and flexible tools which can perform different functions depending on input from the immediate context.
  • Symbiotic Relationships: Identifying mutually beneficially ecological advancements for human and bio-life such as increased soil fertility, strengthened phosphorus, carbon and nitrogen cycles, and insect management.

    • Key Terms of Study:

  • Zoochory (seed dispersal): Involves the dispersal of seeds by the carrying of seeds, fruits and berries by wildlife, including small mammals. There are two subsets of this phenomenon: dispersal by digestion and defecation (Endozoochory), and dispersal on an animal’s exterior (Epizoochory).
  • Ornithochory: Seed dispersal by birds.
  • Pollination: Defined as the transfer of pollen between plants for the purpose of sexual reproduction.
  • Biotic Pollination: Involves the transport of pollen by insects, bees, birds, bats, and small animals through social behaviour and naturally occurring activities.
  • Soil Fertilization: Refers to the increased levels of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus present in the humus and topsoil of the forest as a result of increased animal deification.
  • Large Seed Plants: Include trees, larger ferns and some thickets.
  • Forest Migration: The movement of large seed plant populations over longer periods of time, including the expansion and contraction of forest sizes.