Living Regeneratively: Housing Design That Enables Resident Agency in Ecological Restoration

Cristina Hernandez-Santin and Dominique Hes ()
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Cristina Hernandez-Santin: ICON Science Research Group, Centre of Urban Research, School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia
Dominique Hes: Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia

Land, 2025, vol. 14, issue 7, 1-33

Abstract: In 2022, the United Nations Global Biodiversity Framework set forth an ambitious target for “biodiversity-inclusive cities”, recognising the imperative to address biodiversity decline across all sectors, including the built environment. However, the application of this emerging concept remains limited, with few projects directly aligned with the framework’s objectives or timelines necessary for meaningful biodiversity outcomes. To address this limitation this research presents The Paddock, a 27-home regenerative development in southeastern Australia, designed to empower residents in ecological restoration and regeneration efforts. Engagement was initiated through citizen science surveys and a co-design workshop during 2015–2016. As a result, The Paddock seeks to support five focal species’ return via ecosystem-centred design principles. Utilising a mixed-methods approach, the paper documents the design process, ecological decision-making, and the evolving people–nature relationships within the community. Preliminary results indicate the anecdotal return of four targeted species alongside other local fauna. Feedback gathered from residents, combined with insights from the landowner and architect, illustrates that residing in a regenerative environment enhances ecological connections and stewardship tendencies. Ongoing long-term species monitoring will further evaluate the project’s ecological impact. This case study underscores the potential of biodiversity inclusive design (BID) in fostering biodiversity-positive and socially responsive housing developments.

Keywords: nature positive; regeneration; biodiversity inclusive design; citizen science; stewardship; ecological urbanism; biophilia (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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