“Wild City” uses narrative techniques to analyze the characteristics of some of Leicester, UK’s historical sites. For each chosen site there is a factual analysis which is then interpreted in writing, imagery, and physical models as a specific wild animal—conjuring new meanings for existing spaces.
Details of handcrafted model of Leicester as spatial blooming. © Margaret Ndungu.
Jury
Eva Franch i Gilabert
David Gloster (Chair)
Yeoryia Manolapoulour
Alex de Rijke
By using narrative techniques and illustrative language to entice readers to become immersed into their creations, the storyteller conjures up new meanings to existing spaces. This design project/ book titled “Wild City” compares the characteristics and behavior of some of Leicester’s historical sites to those of an animal. For each site, there is a fictional and factual analysis. This is illustrated through imagery, writing, and physical models. This is one way of renewing associations that are linked with the spaces.
Each site includes a narrative explaining its function and a set of expectations that suggest how it would be utilized by humans.
The Wild City demonstrates a cohesive harmony between the tamed human experience and wild animals. Just like a wild animal, our city’s structure and the activities within have naturally developed and adapted to suit Earth’s changing conditions. This has helped the city to survive and thrive in its environment.
The cast of "Wild City." © Margaret Ndungu.
The cast of "Wild City" in their environment. © Margaret Ndungu.
Margaret Ndungu, “Wild City”
The Zebra model. © Margaret Ndungu.
Curlew House, detailed section. © Margaret Ndungu.
Margaret Ndungu, “Wild City”
Details of handcrafted model of Leicester as spatial blooming. © Margaret Ndungu.
Details of handcrafted model of Leicester as spatial blooming. © Margaret Ndungu.
Details of handcrafted model of Leicester as spatial blooming. © Margaret Ndungu.
Handcrafted model of Leicester as spatial blooming. © Margaret Ndungu.
Margaret Ndungu
De Montfort University
School of Architecture
was born in Kiambu, Kenya, and grew up in Nottingham, UK. Ndungu was inspired by space and placemaking at an early age, which led her to study architecture. She is currently an Architectural Assistant at SOM in London and plans to continue to produce architecture designs that are “characterful” and meaningful. Ndungu’s career plans include working toward her Part 3 qualification in an architectural firm in London, with aspirations to design sustainable buildings and also to continue to create and write about hidden narratives within our cities.
