The River Haven

Set on a site along the River Avon in Bath, this project was a response to the growing issue of social isolation among disabled individuals in urban areas. I developed an affordable housing scheme designed specifically for single, disabled residents, with the goal of exceeding standard accessibility regulations and fostering community through shared spaces within a single cohesive block.

The non-human client — the beaver — informed the ecological dimension of the design. Inspired by the site's proximity to water and the presence of disused gas tanks, I reimagined these industrial remnants as biodiverse wetland pools, linking them to the river to create a habitat for beavers and encourage ecological regeneration. The integration of human and animal needs reinforced the project's emphasis on inclusivity, sustainability, and urban coexistence.

The design process involved extensive consultation with disability advocates and ecological experts, ensuring that both human accessibility and environmental restoration were addressed with equal consideration.