Urban Living Library: Reimagining University Campuses as Ecological Infrastructure

Urban Living Library reimagines the University of London campus as a living ecological infrastructure where biodiversity, education, and public life are integrated through landscape architecture. Responding to habitat fragmentation and the decline of native hedgehogs, the proposal replaces fragmented ornamental landscapes with interconnected ecological habitats, outdoor learning environments, and regenerative planting systems. Rather than treating biodiversity as an environmental layer, the project positions ecology as the organising framework for campus design. Recognised with First Prize in the IFLA Student & Young Professionals Awards, the proposal offers a transferable model for universities seeking to enhance biodiversity, climate resilience, and environmental education.

Design Challenge

University campuses occupy extensive green space within cities but are rarely designed as functioning ecological systems. The challenge was to transform an existing institutional landscape into a biodiverse environment while preserving its educational and civic functions.

Design Solution

The proposal establishes a continuous ecological network through woodland, heathland, moss gardens, biodynamic planting, wildlife corridors, and immersive learning landscapes.

The campus becomes a Living Outdoor Library, where ecological systems are experienced directly through teaching, research, and everyday campus life.

Innovation

Instead of treating biodiversity as a secondary sustainability objective, the project uses ecology as the primary framework organising circulation, planting, learning, and public space.

Sustainability

The proposal strengthens habitat connectivity, increases biodiversity, improves climate resilience, supports native planting communities, promotes environmental stewardship, and integrates nature-based solutions into everyday educational environments.