Abi Townes

Serendipity is a community-focused centre designed to support individuals that are associated with food allergies through education, collaboration, and social connection.

Located on Unity Square, Lincoln, the project aims to create a welcoming environment where food safety and inclusivity are integrated into everyday experiences. The design promotes awareness of food allergies while encouraging interaction between healthcare professionals, nutrition specialists, local businesses, and the wider public.

The concept is driven by the idea of serendipitous encounters (unexpected moments of connection and learning). Inspired by the balance of yin and yang, the spatial arrangement is divided into public, semi-private, and private zones that gradually transition through the building. Public areas, such as the allergen-free food market and gluten-free beer garden, encourage social engagement and openness. Semi-private spaces support workshops and collaborative learning, while private consultation rooms and laboratories provide safe and confidential environments for specialist support.