Corinne Pincher

In Defence of Observation is a series of three shelters designed to frame the changing sea level, and amplify rising water levels and its impact through sight, sound and shelter on the Isle of Sheppey. Due to global warming effects sea levels are rising rapidly and by 2100 it is possible they will rise up to three metres. For Sheppey this means that 61% of the island would be flooded. This project aims to encourage an attitude that accepts the potential environmental changes, and is prepared instead of fearful.

Each shelter references and respects Sheppey’s defensive vernacular architecture, both military fortifications and sea barricades. Each shelter uses indigenous materials and forms, to create the shelters, which highlight the changes to the island, making them more observable, visible and in turn more tangible. The structures will offer shelter, and each shelter will be located in the threat of the change. Rather than distancing themselves from jeopardy, the user is encouraged to sit amongst the changing landscape - the more acquainted you are with your aggressor, the less you have to fear.