I’ve always been fascinated by allotments as a place where growth happens in unique and personal formats. I think they represent a persons design thinking in the way they structure the plot, and build the plot’s structures. Allotments have lurked in my thinking for a long time. They appeared in my PhD discussing the freedom to build without cultural constraints. And in my 3D game design considering how natural elements and growth can change the way a player will react in a digital environment.
Having finally settled into allotment life in April 2017, ( 8 years on the waiting list), I can reflect on how the freedom to think around a personal plot of land and decide on its structure, experiment with its content and learn to adjust to its rhythms is reflected in all my practice.
Starting with my half allotment plot 7A in 2017 to taking on the massively overgrown neighbouring plot 8 in 2024 I think my allotment has become a natural creative studio for my design thinking and personal growth.
