Hallmarsh
Scrape, River Lee Country Park 2005
The
design to replace the burnt out Plover Hide was influenced by a series
of site visits and discussions with Country Parks Manager Ian Kendall
who’s enthusiasm and knowledge as a birdwatcher was invaluable
in defining the concept for the new screen. I became fascinated by
flight and the sheer strength and commitment of birds in their migration
patterns. I wanted to create a structure that allowed good access
for disabled birders and children so I did some research and consultation
with this in view during the design process but quickly found that
whenever I tried to sketch construction ideas and thought about the
site I invariably drew bird’s wings instead. I had been looking
for a natural form upon which to base my design and it occurred to
me that this was the perfect solution as the slope of the wing and
the angle of the feathers would give me the access and scope of viewing
heights I wanted to achieve.
As the
old Plover Hide had been burned down by vandals I needed to use materials
which were vandal resistant and decided upon galvanized steel mirroring
the pylons within reclaimed wetland environment. The steel is reminiscent
of water as it softly reflects the sky and the surrounding landscape
and its use in the construction of the wing echoes the strength of
birds.
The name
of the screen comes from the legend of the Phoenix, a magical bird
that rose from the ashes of its own fire.
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