ALEXANDER WHITWELL is an architectural designer interested in spaces that are both socially and environmentally regenerative. 

He has studied in Bath and Delft, and currently works at 6a architects in London.

The historic Spillers Mill & Silo in Avonmouth

View of the Wind Futures Institute from across Avonmouth Dock

Situated at the edge of Bristol, Avonmouth is defined by three interacting ecologies: industry, community, and nature. For 150 years, industry has reshaped the landscape in its image: the mouth of the Avon reformed and the skyline dominated by reinforced concrete behemoths. 
Today the port is changing again. The green industrial transition brings new opportunities, and raises new questions. What does a green industrial landscape look like? How can communities and nature be a part of the transition? 
In this context, the Wind Futures Institute is a radical new institution dedicated to the research and development of wind energy in synergy with nature and local people. The key space is the fabrication hall, a vast climatically controlled zone for the experimental construction of turbine blades. 
My project challenges the separation between the three ecologies. A public route through the scheme combines exhibitions with the unique port landscape. The experimental landscape is an integral part of the scheme, and offers a model for regeneration alongside working industry. My proposal asks if industry, nature, and community can coexist, and offers a future where these three ecologies uplift each other.

View of the fabrication hall, showing a turbine blade being manoeuvred

View of the agar plastic façade, based off the same curve equation as aerofoils to promote natural ventilation deep into the plan

1:500 scale model of the scheme, carved by hand from solid cedar and oak

Portbury Wharf Nature Reserve, a salt marsh neighbouring the site which inspired the landscape design (photo by author)

View of rhyne formed by excavating existing drains on site, with a bridge extracted from the existing slab

View of the central staircase, where public and private functions intersect

The scheme is connected by bridges, reinterpreting the industrial vernacular of coal and grain elevators

View of the one of the exhibition spaces, inspired by the ephemeral light of the estuary

Looking towards the Bristol Channel from the edge of the port estate (photo by author)