FUTURE SEED SPREADING MACHINE INSPIRED BY WINGED HAKEA SEEDS
Hakea is a genus of large Australian shrubs which have stunning deep red, pink and white flowers resembling spikey balls. Flowers are followed by large-marble-sized seed pods which split open in times of bushfires to release two winged seeds.
Below are some of the concept sketches and 3D models for Sewell Reserve – a biomimicry-inspired adventure playground I’m working on with Landscape Architect Philip Smith and Merri-bek City Council.
Located in Glenroy, Melbourne, this project will be constructed in mid 2025. It will have a number of large-scale climbing sculptures designed to get kids and adults thinking about how nature can inspire innovation. The project initially began with a microbiology theme (see the microbes in the colourful sketch), but the final design is based on a seed-dispersal theme.
The sketches below show a futuristic seed-spreading flying machine for cities, inspired by winged hakea seeds. We’re currently in the detailed design phase. You can read more about the playground’s landscape plan here. And check out Merri-Bek’s VIRTUAL TOUR here.
Virtual tour by Chris Staring . Hakea flower photo by JJ Harrision.
