After brainstorming, we expanded on the idea of the nest as a place not just for animals, but for humans as well. We felt that by incorporating both elements it showed that there could be a harmony between humans and nature.

Last week, we proposed the idea of having a shared space between animals (birds) and humans. However, there is also the possibility of having a space that both people and plants can share and occupy. Below are some illustrations of said concept. The pod containing the resting space for people, can be wrapped with a scaffolding made of natural material such as rattan or bamboo, allowing creeping, vine plants to grow around it and cover it in a lush natural green skin. This incorporation of man-made elements (the pod) and natural plants reflects a harmonious and synergistic relationship between man and their environment. Humans nestled within nature.

Next we have the idea of a nest being a common space for an exchange of items. A large wall covered with branches conceals drawers behind, which people can leave items in good condition that they no longer require, for others who may be in need. This is another take of a phenomenon in nature where birds like magpies collect items and trinkets and place them in the nest. The social nature of this installation allows for an interaction of our student community through helping and benefiting each other and fosters a communal spirit of wanting to improve the lives of others. We hope that a social experiment such as this will improve student well-being and reflect NTU students as being a caring community.

Lastly, we have the concept of light and shadow, with the notion that the nest can be an experience for both humans and animals. Because of the concerns about the technology and engineering involved in allowing a human to be physically housed within a nest, we have sought alternatives to make the experience more ephemeral. We believe that we can create a mesh of branches and twigs that are placed around a source of 360 degree lighting, such that the light can be enveloped by the twigs and branches, and their shadows can be cast onto the surrounding area. Being surrounded by cast shadows creates a feeling of being encompassed within a nest. Furthermore shadows are non physical, and are versatile in that they are not constrained by the environment, wrapping around walls and objects, giving an experience or sensation of being within a nest. In addition, actual bird nests or houses can be placed above the lighting element, such that it provides an actual space for birds and animals as well. The installation can work with sunlight in the day and electrical lighting at night. Furthermore, the light at night will attract insects which can be a food source for the birds nesting above. As such this idea of a nest is a combination of physical and non physical forms, and is a nest within another because it accomodates both animals and humans, serving a duality of function from the practical to the experiential. Below are some inspiration images of shadows cast by plants, followed by some concept sketches.