The Hothouse has been designed by Studio Weave as an installation in the UK that highlights what the effects of climate change would look like in an inviting and educational manner.
The structure is inspired by the Victorian greenhouses that were once quite common in the UK and is capable of achieving a microclimate for supporting tropical vegetation. This identifies what would likely happen in the future if temperatures continue to rise around the world and thus change the kinds of foods that could be grown in the UK. This sounds at first beneficial, but comes as a stark reminder that being able to grow tropical plants in the UK would come as a result of the native regions for these species being too hot and incapable of thriving.
The Hothouse was explained further by Studio Weave Founder Je Ahn who said, "Amid the strangeness of the COVID era of the last few months, reduced human activity has produced what feels like a profound shift in the environment, progressing a much-needed dialogue that will hopefully translate into sustained action and change. We hope this little Hothouse acts as a continual reminder of our fragile relationship with nature while allowing us to rediscover the simple and enriching pleasure of looking after beautiful plants."
Climate Change-Mimicking Hothouses
The Hothouse by Studio Weave is Ornate and Educational
Trend Themes
1. Climate Change Education - Creating educational installations that visually demonstrate the effects of climate change, such as the Hothouse, can help raise awareness and understanding.
2. Microclimate Solutions - Developing innovative structures like the Hothouse that can create microclimates for specific plant species opens up opportunities for controlled environment agriculture and urban farming.
3. Sustainable Architecture - Designing sustainable and eco-friendly structures, like the Hothouse, can inspire future architectural innovations that minimize environmental impact.
Industry Implications
1. Environmental Education - The Hothouse installation demonstrates a possible disruptive innovation opportunity in the field of environmental education, creating immersive experiences to educate the public about climate change.
2. Agriculture and Farming - The concept of creating microclimates for specific plant species, as seen in the Hothouse, presents disruptive innovation opportunities for controlled environment agriculture, vertical farming, and high-value crop production.
3. Architectural Design - The sustainable and visually striking design of the Hothouse showcases the potential for disruptive innovations in sustainable architecture and green building practices.