The HEARTH Incubator is a thoughtful design located on Delos Island in the Cyclades archipelago of Greece. It is intended to address serious environmental issues, including desertification and the deterioration of local ecosystems. The focus is on creating a temporary, biodegradable structure that helps restore and support native plant life. The overall design seeks to form a microhabitat where biodiversity can thrive, offering shaded areas that encourage the growth of local flora.

Architectural Framework
The design features a series of rammed earth pillars, each strategically formed to maximize surface area. This allows them to have substantial thermal mass, effectively acting as heat sinks. The cooler, moister microclimates produced by the structure are critical for the germination of seeds. The pillars are arranged to enhance their ecological function, enabling them to contribute significantly to the restoration of the landscape.



Phased Development
The HEARTH Incubator is built around a clear three-phase strategy. In the first stage, it cools the ground beneath it, increasing moisture levels while providing essential shelter for local animals. This approach invites visitors to interact with the space, encouraging a better understanding of the environmental challenges the region faces.



Ecological Integration
As the second phase unfolds, the upper sections of the pavilion begin to release a mix of native shrub and grass seeds, a process supported by seasonal rains. This gradual release promotes the reestablishment of vegetation. The hemp rope used within the pillars helps maintain their stability, while it also becomes part of the ecosystem as it interacts with the surrounding environment.



Sustained Growth
In the final phase, the HEARTH Incubator becomes a self-sustaining green space. As the previously whitewashed bases of the pillars dissolve, a thriving ecosystem of slow-growing trees and shrubs takes shape. This change enriches the landscape and supports the formation of fertile soil, with the roots of the new plants reinforcing the ground, creating a lively habitat for various species.



Through careful structure and design, the project illustrates how architecture can enhance natural landscapes and contribute to ecological restoration. The end result is a space where nature and community can coexist and flourish.