Zac Vassallo - MADA NOW 2021 - Art, Design and Architecture

Sparking discourse on collective ecological and social issues is foundational to my design practice. The conceptual framework for this project explores the intersection of people and nature to promote action toward environmental consciousness. Developed through material research and exploration, Habi was created as an immersive experiential pavilion to encourage reflection on Indigenous habitat and the act of caring for country. Habi is designed to educate and motivate community participation in the reintroduction of contextually relevant Indigenous plant and insect species as an act of reparation.

Reintroducing Native Plant and Insect Species

Habi is situated on the stolen land of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung People of the Kulin Nation in Thomas Kidney Reserve. The biomimetic design references the geometrical optimisation of a beehive to form an experiential pavilion for contemplation and reflection. The installation seeks to educate the public on the reintroduction of Indigenous plant and insect species within cities as a necessary act of reparation.

The Habi Panel

The Habi panel was manufactured using a casting process. The surface texture was designed to enable the catchment of organic matter and encourage seed germination on the surface layer of the material.

Material Testing

The annual shedding of bark by eucalyptus trees allows for the formation of unique insect habitat. To replicate this environment and explore the potential for sustainably sourced, naturally biodegradable materials, a River Red Gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis bark composite was created. Characteristics of rigidity and surface texture were tested against varying ratios of bark to potato, corn, or tapioca starch.

Impermanence

Over time, the germination of native plant species on the surface layer of each panel encourages natural biodegradation of the cladding system. Common Tussock Grass Poa labillardierei and Gold Dust Wattle Acacia acinacea were selected for their ability to provide desirable habitat for diverse Indigenous insect species in addition to being native to the local area.

Educate

Insects act as natural pest control, pollinate the food we consume, and break down organic matter. The provision of an educational platform enables Habi to disseminate information on the role individuals can play in the reintroduction of Indigenous biodiversity and insect ecology.

Habi