My name is Harry Smart, I am a final year studying BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture at Birmingham City University. From a young age my enthusiasm for plants and the outdoors helped me gain insight into how landscape architecture can play a significant role in improving our quality of life. Through my studies I have explored the theory and practical application of my ideas, engaging with contemporary societal issues and the challenges we face reconnecting humans with the landscape.
My final year project focuses on enhancing community identity and creating a united culture within Birmingham City centre. It considers the complexity of local diverse culture and the social networks which span and integrate these cultures. The former Digbeth flower markets in Smithfield, was once a place which brought people together. It currently sits derelict and disconnection from the city centre. I have conceptualised a new plan which promotes social connectivity, bringing people together through multi-functional spaces that have been carefully considered to respond to local contextual conditions. The spatial design incorporates strong physical networks leading to a range of social nodal spaces. Many of these spaces are community lead and offer the opportunity to work together and create shared collective memories.
