Roots of Resilience

A journey to discover ‘Ethical Otherness’ of Marseille.

At the start of the academic year I aimed to broaden my research beyond conventional social, political, and economic patterns, choosing a different journey through creative, philosophical, and cosmological perspectives. This approach drew from the insights of figures such as Carl Jung, Michel Foucault, and Allen Ginsberg, exploring the themes of individual and collective consciousness, power, and the impact of capitalism on the human spirit. This exploration extends to the connection between our chaotic planetary existence and the larger cosmic order.

The thesis reflects on our collective roles and the intricate connections to natural geometries that dictate our reality. It addresses the urgent environmental challenges and threats facing our fragile ecosystem, emphasising our ethical duty as stewards of Earth.

Inspired by the narrative arcs of redemption and transformation in -‘The Count of Monte Cristo,’. I explored the opportunity to weave together themes of solitude and renewal, advocating for personal and collective growth. Playing with other themes of ‘light’ vs ‘dark’ found in the book, this proposal follows the journey of both human and seed.

Ultimately, the thesis proposes architectural solutions that foster a connection between the microcosms and macrocosms — from seeds to the vastness of earth and sky — aiming to enhance the sense of space and time for individuals engaged in preserving life. This work seeks to architecturally manifest the principle that understanding and influencing our immediate environment can resonate through the universe, highlighting the critical role of architecture in shaping our collective future.

– How we decide to look after the ‘wee hings’ will echo through nature and reflect on us.

In focusing on Marseille as the locus of our investigation for an ethical city, the thesis harnesses the city’s history of exchange, multiculturalism, using its challenged yet resilient nature. Exemplifying how a Seed Sanctuary can facilitate ethical and sustainable development.

The architectural intervention proposed in this thesis aims to harness Marseille’s distinctive landscape, Integrating the city’s heritage – its Greek beginnings – into WW2 battlegrounds, the Seed Sanctuary aims to create spaces that not only address the immediate needs of their inhabitants (both Human and Seed), and also contribute to global sustainability and ethical stewardship – Humanity is losing sense of connection with substance and this proposal aims to draw those connections closer, casting a reflection of love and compassion for our planet.

This thesis ultimately advocates for an architectural practice that is not just responsive to, but anticipatory of, the future challenges and opportunities that cities like Marseille might face. Through acceptance of the interconnectedness from the quantum to the cosmic scales, Architects are positioned to lead in creating spaces that elevate the human experience. They should ensure that cities are not merely places of habitation and consumption, but nurturing grounds for the flourishing of all life.