This project addresses the urgent need for decarbonizing urban environments by contributing to zero carbon architecture. Located on Commercial Road, Swindon, the development serves as a climate-resilient ‘living lab’ comprising nine medium-scale buildings.
I designed a bakery complex within this quarter, integrating sustainability, community engagement, and education. Inspired by the use of locally sourced, identity-preserved grains, the design supports local farmers and promotes sustainable food systems. The complex includes culinary classes and furniture-making workshops informed by community input and demographic research, encouraging hands-on learning and social cohesion.
Architecturally, the building’s form echoes wheat grain curves, symbolizing agricultural roots. A central food bank enhances accessibility and community welfare, while an upper-level workshop and showroom focus on upcycling agricultural waste into furniture, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
