Métis

I'm attempting a design based on the swirling movements of starling flocks (known as murmurations).

Design attempt 1

My first model (above) shows beds of wavy plants of varying heights and densities, with both wide and very narrow paths for visitors to walk/push through, in an attempt to emulate the patterns formed by the moving flock. Metal fencing and wires above are intended to reference the birds' habit of perching together on urban structures and electricity wires, whilst hopefully adding a bit of vertical interest. Once the model was completed I felt that while some elements have potential (wires, varying space available), on the whole the garden is rather boring and crowded, and could explore the concept more fully. I'm trying not to be too literal, but it's proving difficult!

Second attempt

I've tried to redesign so that the visitor feels like one of the birds, with twists and turns, contrasts of crowdedness/space and being forced to pay attention to the position of their fellow 'birds' and cooperate to move through the garden. I'm also trying to introduce more of a sense of motion.

Paths have been widened and beds made less dominant, but probably too much - the paths are now all quite wide and open, which wasn't the original intention; I abandoned the first design without really testing it with sketches etc.

A focal point towards the centre is intended to draw visitors through, and the sculptures force them to flow around them in a circuitous movement. The fences now have shiny spheres positioned at regular intervals along them, to represent perching birds; their reflective quality should help add a sense of movement too.

The overhead wires now have large Calder-style mobiles attached, both to catch visitors' eyes and bring in a sense of twisting motion, even in a light breeze.

The layout will probably be changed (more twists and turns, less regular positioning of sculptures and mobiles), and the wires may well go back to their original diagonal arrangement. Planting needs some thought as it really needs to impart the idea of motion, airiness and flow with some force.