chimney swift habitat

Chimney Swift Habitat

In the remote corner of a decommissioned urban school yard, a slender and almost colourless totem has been erected. The object, striking in its modest expression and purity of form, is not intended for human use - it is a Habitat for the Chimney Swift, a medium sized, soot-gray bird with long, slender wings and short legs suited to clinging to vertical surfaces.

With the growth of cities disrupting the Swift’s natural habitats of hollow trees, cliffs and caves, the species adapted by nesting within chimneys. Ironically, as chimneys have fallen into disuse the Swift population has also declined and is now recognized as a threatened species in Ontario.  This habitat attempts to heal some of the many wounds we have created in our destruction of their habitats, both natural and man-made. It envisages a future where human and non-human life forms can cohabitate in a more balanced ecosystem.

Collaborators
Entuitive (Structural engineers)
WSP global (ecologist)
Ritestart Ltd (Contractor)

Photo Credits
Mike Awad, Kohn Shnier

Recognition
Designlines