Designing for Nature – Artecology Co‑Create Workshop

Our Coastal Defence team recently took part in a hands‑on co‑create workshop with Artecology, a not‑for‑profit organisation based on the Isle of Wight that specialises in nature‑inclusive design and eco‑engineering.

Founded in 2013 and working from within the Isle of Wight UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Artecology brings together ecological science, engineering and creative practice to design infrastructure that actively supports wildlife. Their work focuses on ensuring that essential structures—such as sea defences, walls and drainage systems—can also function as habitats, helping nature to thrive rather than be displaced.

What makes Artecology different is how they work. They use hands‑on, democratic and collaborative processes, involving designers, engineers and communities directly in shaping practical ecological solutions. Their projects deliver real, measurable environmental benefits, embedded directly into the built environment.

During the workshop, our team explored how small, thoughtful design details can make a big difference for coastal and marine life. Using clay, we created bioreceptive sculptures with carefully designed textures, grooves and footholds. These features encourage marine species to attach, shelter and grow. The sculptures have now been fired and are drying, ready for potential use in future environmental interventions.

Once installed, these pieces could form part of vertipools and other tide‑friendly features, designed to mimic natural rock formations. These structures can provide shelter, feeding spaces and attachment points for marine life, supporting healthier and more diverse coastal ecosystems.

This collaborative work supports our ambition to embed ecological enhancement directly into the coastal defences, ensuring the scheme not only protects the coastline but also delivers long‑term benefits for biodiversity alongside vital infrastructure.