Design using Contrast

The previous two designs (original 'folie' and 'folie to building') focused on the use of raw materials to create a structure which focused on harsh, linear geometry. To heighten this experience I decided to employ the idea of contrast. In this case the harsh linearity of the primary structure in the center of the design is heightened by the use of a fluid-form outer shell. The stark difference in aesthetics complements each other and engages the viewers attention. The bright luster of the copper-clad outer shell compared to the dullness of the cast concrete further enhances the sensory experience.

Howard Smith Wharves - an industrial history

The historical significance of Howard Smith Wharves as an industrial site is clearly depicted by the images above. The black and white photography add to the 'grittiness' and character of the site. I wanted to depict this feeling through my presentation primarily through the use of black and white photography. Photos of my model were taken at various angles and combined with images of the site to create images similar to the ones above. These were then converted to gray-scale to adopt the 'industrial' feel.

Perspective Views

 Digital Studio

 Library

The above images bear the likeness of what it would be like inside both the digital studio and the library. The digital studio features a more intimate setting and is designed to cater for smaller, private groups. The library, however, is a much more public space, catering for larger groups of people.

Diagrammatic progression of design

 The images above show the diagrammatic progression of the design. Initially concrete piers are sunk into the river to provide support for the building platform which is constructed above. The primary structure is then built on top of this and is encased by the fluid outer skin which is clad in copper. Finally a walkway is built which links the surrounding parklands to the learning center.

Material Pallete

The images above are indicative of the relatively restrained material palette used in the proposed design for the learning center. The use of materials has been limited to concrete, copper, glass and steel. Wherever possible the materials have been used in their 'raw' state to emphasize the existing industrial qualities of the site. Materials such as the copper will progressively age as the green patina begins to establish itself on its surface. The steel will begin to show signs of rust and the raw concrete will chip and and crack over time. This process of change is reflective of the buildings location within a marine environment and crucial in creating a responsive design.

Model Photos

 

The images above are photos taken of the model built for the proposed learning center at Howard Smith Wharves. The model was constructed with enough detail to take close-up shots which bare the likeness of what it would be like to interact with the many spaces within the building. The variety of spaces and activities facilitated by the building cater for the needs of a variety of audience of different ages and demographics.

Site Diagram showing boundary of proposed Riverside Parklands

The site diagram above shows the location of the proposed learning center within the broader context. The area highlighted in green shows the boundary of the Council's proposed Riverside Parklands. Once completed the learning center will be viewed as a 'destination' point within the Parklands, offering a variety of activities that cater for a multitude of audiences.

Shadow and User Analysis

The above images show the intensification of user engagement with the building over the course of the day. The red arrows indicate pedestrian flow whilst the blue arrows indicate cyclist flow through the site. To aid in the proposed redevelopment of the site into a riverside parkland the learning center has been situated over the water to allow for unhindered movement within the site.

Original Folie Design

The original folie was designed on the principles of using raw materials to create a primitive yet adequate meeting space. The design would serve as an oppose to the otherwise busy, technologically driven lifestyle of today. The primary inspiration for the design was Stone Henge which is regarded by many as the first known gathering space.