Creating a pop-up home for hedgehogs has ignited an Edinburgh Napier University student’s passion for design.
Archie Abbott’s project H.O.G is among those on display at the 2026 ENU Degree Show – alongside work from students across the School of Arts & Creative Industries.
His innovative idea has culminated in a flat pack shelter to protect the garden creatures from harsh British winters.
The weaved pattern of his prototype was inspired by riverbank structures he noticed while walking his dog.
Archie, who is studying on ENU’s BDes (Hons) Product Design course, said: “At the start I was looking at making something for urban wildlife as a whole – which is something I’ve always been interested in.
“It was only when researching it a bit more that I found out hedgehog numbers have dropped dramatically over the last few decades.
“Their habitats are being destroyed and they often struggle to find shelter, so I tried to find a practical way to help.”
The 22-year-old from North Berwick identified the threats facing commonly spotted creatures - caused in part by rapid urbanisation. As gardens have become ideal habitats for hedgehogs, Archie’s idea could help address a decline in numbers.
He painstakingly developed his prototypes through several iterations as he tried to improve his concept. The process has refined his ambitions for a future career as a result.
Archie hopes it could be taken further to become a product available for people with their own outdoor space.
He added: “I wanted to make it as easy for people to build as possible, just making it really simple, aiming to educate people at the same time.
“I’m very detail oriented, so finding a little thing that I can change with each version of it was really rewarding.
“Everyone has got their own thing that they're good at - it's made me realise what kind of work I like. I'd like to go into furniture design or perhaps something to do with conservation because of this.”
Showcasing work from across ENU’s School of Arts & Creative Industries, the 2026 Degree Show is being held at the University’s Merchiston campus between 29 May and 5 June.
You can find out more about attending here.