Practitioners of transpecies design aim to consider the needs of all species – not just humans – in the built environment. Their buildings often include habitat for plants, animals and even microorganisms, with the goal of reducing biodiversity decline and lessening the impacts of climate change. The University of Oregon is a hub for the movement, and students and faculty recently showcased it with an exhibition at the Venice Biennale of Architecture.
Adrian Parr is the dean of UO’s College of Design. She joins to tell us more about the transpecies design movement.