Re-Dream

The world has traversed to an anthropocene epoch bearing a permanent discourse of ecology, culture, traditions, and well-being. The remnant scars on the landscape calls for a shift in perspective in architectural design- to assume the role of a geological actor for regeneration and repair for a new reality beyond human use. Taking a stroll across Cockatoo island gives a sense of eerie and discomfort. The past is remembered in the present. The land surfaces are impervious, sealing away toxins from the ship building era and the edges of the island are cut off by seawalls.

The term ‘Dreamtime’ refers to the origin of time - the creation of human beings and their purpose in this world. Dreamtime is a period of continuum of past present and future, with a story of beginning, but no end. They laid laws on the interaction and behaviour of these creations with each other. The core intentions of the design strategies for ‘Re-Dream’ begin with the healing of wounded landscapes at Cockatoo Island by being one with the island and removing all hierarchy of needs. Regenerating symbiotic and biodiverse habitats for marine, terrestrial and aerial species is an objective that follows. Subsequently, the project aims for an improved experience and state of mind for visitors of the island, building healthy relationships with the environment and the species. Inspired by the stories of Dreamtime, the zones are categorized as Reflection, Reaching Out, Heal and Live On. Every space represents portals that transport the visitor through time- a memory of the past, the conditions of the present and the opportunities for the future. In Reflection, one realizes and learns. Reaching out, they mend. In return, they heal and are healed. And then they Live On and maintain. The design for the new architectural interventions explores concepts of impermanence and adaptability. The modules of the Living Wall, the Pier Walk and Look out, Hanging Gardens and the Living Units were designed to be able to plug in or multiply, by being supported by existing infrastructure that prevailed from the industrial era. Meanwhile, the island edges and surrounding waters are regenerated with constructed and floating wetlands, oystertecture, vegetated banks, pile fields and elevated piers. These strategies protect the island from rising tidal levels and assist in purifying water.