Carried by the Waves

Located in Thorney Bay on Canvey Island, the project seeks to explore the concept of a city, particularly as Southend gained city status in 2022. During my research, I discovered the devastating flood of 1953, which significantly impacted Canvey Island and its environs. Since Canvey Island sits below sea level, it faces constant threats of flooding. To address this issue, the local council plans to raise the sea wall at a cost of millions, which will only be effective for 50 years. With rising sea levels, Canvey Island will always be at risk of flooding.

Rather than continuously raising the sea wall, my project takes a different approach by embracing flooding. The project is designed to erode with the floods and is constructed using clay found on site. It is meant to be easily rebuilt, and the aim is to bring the community closer together by integrating the rebuilding of the structures into the community.

The proposal advocates for the use of only locally sourced materials found at the site and nearby areas. The design comprises a landscape of clay structures resembling sandcastles, as well as lightweight steel stilts, supporting enclosed buildings that are connected via walkways to provide shelter during floods.