Integrating habitats: Exploring ecological democracy in a regenerative garry oak infill context

This study explores the successful integration of a regenerative Quercus garryana savanna with a residential infill development in a mature, urban, residential neighbourhood in the city of Portland, Oregon. The research uses an inductive, qualitative approach; the methods used include key informant interviews, focused literature interviews, site visits and a design proposal submitted to the City of Portland's design contest "Integrating Habitats. A design competition". This research explores fifteen design principles for ecological democracy within the context of the Portland design competition. Outcomes suggest that the practice of integrating urban ecology is moving towards a holistic approach and that the social aspect of urban design is vital to the success of its ecological systems.