Temple of a Million Bottles

It is fair to say that most buildings are constructed from brick and mortar. Very few however are constructed from glass bottles and mortar- however this is exactly how the buildings at 'Wat Lan Kaud' (Temple of a million bottles) were built in Thailand. The project began in 1984 and is now estimated to have used more than 1.5 million bottles donated by the local population. As well as looking beautiful this structure says more to us about it's values. This has proven to be a very successful structure- the bottles are strong, low maintenance and allow in natural light. Another draw to the structure is its impressive sustainable credentials- using the bottles in this way is a classic example of recycling what would otherwise be a waste material- even the bottle tops are retained to create decorative mosaics.
Perhaps the most ironic thing is that of the 1.5 million bottles so far used in the project not one has been donated by the builders directly- Buddhist monks for whom drinking is a sin!
This project, which has now become a tourist attraction in the local area should inspire us all to look beyond the obvious choices for building materials when there may be more creative, sustainable and fun solutions available.
http://www.inhabitat.com/2008/10/27/temple-of-a-million-bottles/

The Lost and Found Orchestra

Being a Landscape Architecture student is not just about focusing on Landscape Architecture directly. By looking at a wider context it is possible to make links to projects and themes which will then enrich Landscape design and planning.
The Lost and Found Orchestra, from the creators of STOMP is one such event which I found irresistible to influence design. The theme for the 'orchestra' is to create music from found and recycled every day objects- from traffic cones to glass bottles and even a household shower. The results are truly outstanding. This energetic performance shows how objects which one might conceive as rubbish can be used to activate people, make music and ultimately art. This is certainly food for thought, sustainability is always at the forefront of the current agenda and the themes explored here certainly provoke ideas- particularly relating to my current project related to musical child's play.
The Lost and Found Orchestra played at London's Royal Festival Hall from 19th December 2008 to 11th January 2009.
http://www.lostandfoundorchestra.com/