Portfolio

Integrated Design ReportIntroduction

The second year of BA Architecture course was a unique point in my studies, which helped me to transfer and enrich both my theoretical and technological skills that I gained in year 1. Moreover architecture was viewed from different perspectives, giving a significant emphasis on critical thinking. The projects that were introduced during 2nd year helped to understand approaches to design process and development of the skills that were gained. The ways of thinking and working were completely different to the ones used in year 1. By undertaking research on specific area of Manchester, with both vibrant and varied community, certain decisions were gradually made throughout the year in order to reflect on the issues of the area. The projects that are presented in this portfolio not only reflect the mood of Levenshulme area of Manchester , but also have the connections with certain spiritual and historical foundation. Despite the fact that the projects are different from one another they are closely connected by the idea of “framing and structuring”, that creates an overall integrity for the year. The proposals also use the idea of iterative re-use of structural elements of components, which were first designed out of context but then were seamlessly integrated into the schemes. Learning through testing, numerous changes and retouching actions to the original ideas culminated into the final design proposals that can be reviewed further.

The starting point of the project was outlined by the exercise, which suggested revisiting the understanding of architectural plan drawings and the notion of translation as part of the design process. This exercise helped to reinforce the skills ,which have already been developing ,as well as introduced to the new approach on the design thinking.

Geometry

Scale

Hierarchy

Circulation

Degrees of enclosure

Almost open

Secondary

BigMediumSmall

Radial + Superimposed grid Linear Clustered

Primary

Less enclosedFully enclosed

The limitation, which were outlined by the program leaders and tutors were essential to keep. The idea of working with unknown buildings in 2 dimensional plans, helped to expose and identify the main planar elements of the building hierarchy, disregarding the more complex aspects and details.

Geometry

Scale Hierarchy

Circulation

Degrees of enclosure

Almost open

Big

Secondary

Chosen Diagrams

Radial + Superimposed grid

Medium

PrimaryLess enclosed

Fully enclosed

The exercise was then taken further and “translated” to the area of Levenshulme. The site of St. Mary and the Angels church was chosen, due to its high potential of implementation of the outside rooms and enhancing the area and its surroundings. After undertaking on site analysis and a series of diagrams, the attention was drawn towards the entrance to the church. While analyzing the site it was notable that spiritual and unique feeling of the site was ruined by the car parking space, which is situated right in front of the church. Constant circulation of cars through the site created distraction and unnatural feel and ruined the whole composition of the space. Therefore it was decided to reinterpret the entrance path to the church in a new way.

Circulation paths diagram Green space diagram

Spatial relationship diagram

Figure ground diagramComplex diagramSite analysis diagrams

The ideas were influenced by entrance gardens to the churches of Russia and also the famous Notre Dame de Paris. These churches, as well as many others in the western countries, create the feeling of the “procession” though space, exposing the church as the main sacred space. Using diagrams from the previous exercise , this method was implemented on the church site of Levenshulme. By superimposing the diagrams of circulation, grid and geometry the basic composition of the proposal was formed.

Garden of Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris (Wikimedia.org, 2015)

Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker (Wikimedia.org, 2015)

The diagram of circulation was taken as a basis, which had a strong linear circulation path from the starting point to the point of arrival.

Then the radial geometry of the diagram was scaled and used to build the transition path.

The basic geometry of the diagram was applied to the site.

The geometry was then defined clearly to use in the designing process.

Development of the scheme

To expose the church even more and add interesting detail to the surroundings the water feature was added along with the “circulation path”, which was inspired by the design of the Australian Garden by landscape studio Taylor Cullity Lethlean.

However, the problem of safety rose, while designing the circulation path, which leads through the pool. The process of further refinement found the resolution in combination of interlocking circular plastines and borders along the edges, which guide people through the path.

The Australian park by landscape studio Taylor Cullity Lethlean (Howarth, 2013)

Development of the Transition path

Existing site plan

Proposed site plan

Night view perspective

Overall, by careful analysis of parameters and translation of graphical understanding of the given plans, more vibrant and spiritually centered space was created. The proposed design follows strong circulation pattern of the site and leads directly to the church entrance.

Daytime perspective

The following project focused on the ideas of “frame and structure” and its implications. The project was divided into 4 phases, where phases 1-3 studied a series of physical models, which explored specific modes of departure. While the fourth phase suggested adopting the resolved structures to the outside rooms, created in the first part of the project

Phase 1: Study models 1 and 2

In order to find future shape of the cantilevers the plasticine was used as a primary material. Due to the material qualities, the form changed under its own weight, until it balanced itself. The end shape was then chosen as a final solution and explored further.

Phase 1: Study model 3

Exploring the cantilever, which was inspired by the body as a product of cultural influences allowed to develop old and introduce new ideas. Moreover the new characteristics were introduced, such as the “moving mechanism”. This feature represents the dynamic movement of ballroom dancing as well as balance. The mechanism was represented as a simple worm gear, which can be put into action by the rotation movement from the side of the cantilever. The feature was inspired by the French music box, bought as a souvenir during the study trip to Lyon.

The French music box (souvenir from Lyon)

Model 3: Further development

The main focus of the 2nd phase was to develop the actual connections and application of materials into tectonic solution. This was achieved by introducing 2 types of connections: “extended” and “disappearing”. Each type of connection regulated the design of the moving mechanism and influenced their aesthetic qualities. While the extended connection represented unity of 2 cantilevers and the mechanism, “the disappearing connection” revealed the structural frame of the cantilevers, while seamlessly connecting them.

Phase 2: Connection study

The 3rd phase of the project also included the explorations of light and heavy types of construction. The study trip to Lyon allowed to explore a great number of interesting construction types. However, the part that was chosen to study and replicate the heavy construction was noticed on the way to Lyon, in Charles de Gaulle Airport of Paris.

Charles des gaulle airport, International terminal

Heavy construction: Axonometric projection

The structural concrete “arc”, which enveloped the entire area of the airport used simple, but fascinating light strategy. Therefore the light and shadow was explored in the study models as well as construction technique. The reinforcing mesh was inserted inside concrete to form the “curved” shape, without possibility to collapse.

Heavy construction: Model photographs

The inspiration for post and beam detail came from well-known French architect and designer Jean Prouve. A number of light construction details of Jean Prouve were explored before choosing post and beam detail used in Ferembal house.

Light construction: Axonometric projection

Post and beam, study sketches (The Third & The Seventh, 2010)

The short movie created by Gallery Patrick Seguin helped to understand the assembly process of post and beam construction as well as the whole house.

The model was replicated in wood, due to the fact that some specific materials were not available at the moment of construction.

Still shot from the video (Jean Prouvé - Ferembal House 1948, 2015)

Light construction: Model photographs

Phase 3 of the project explored , explored repetitive frames and their connections further. After finishing the model, the moving mechanism helped to investigate different positions of the cantilevered part at different heights, and create an interesting “shape” out of tensile members. The idea was highly influenced by the observations of the work of Santiago Calatrava in Lyon and by further exploration of his famous Reamin Bridge in Milwaukee, Wiskonsin.

Reamin Bridge, Shot from video (The Third & The Seventh, 2010)

Photograph of Saint Exupery Airport, Lyon (Study trip to Lyon, 2015)

Phase 3: Repetitive frame model

Phase 3: Axonometric study

In the final phase of the project several experimantations were made. This phase considered repetitive frames in insolation and observed their spaces at a different scale. It was concluded that these particular frames can be used mostly as a public walkways and small sheds.

Phase 4: Scale and proportion study

These observations were then taken further and translated into a single spaced building, which also combined post and beam construction type. The shape of the building and its glass façade, as if begged to have goods or produce displayed there.

Phase 4: Pastry shop floor plan

Therefore in order to draw more people to the site the single spaced building became a church pastry shop. The experience of French “boulangeries” also influenced this decision.

Boulangerie, Lyon (Stydy trip to Lyon, 2015)

Pastry shop section

Due to the fact that most of the façade of the building is glazing , the heat loss will be dominant. Therefore argon filled glazing was introduced along with insulated floor and the area above the wood burner. The wood burner, which serves as an oven for making bread and pastries, is a primary heat source used to heat the building. Opening the window, situated on top of the building, provides natural ventilation and reduces temperature inside on a sunny day.

Environmental strategy diagram

Finally the outside rooms were enriched with cantilever frames. The walkway was constructed over the pool area, which can be uplifted when the church is closed and not visited by people.

Proposed Site plan

Proposed Site section

The pastry shop was placed just near the entrance to the site, in order to get peoples attention by the smell of freshly baked bread and pastries.

Daytime perspective

Overall the project succeeded to enhance the area, that used to be dull and uninviting, into a space, that can be proudly though of as cultural and spiritual centre of Levenshulme.

Night Perspective

Model of the proposal

“3D construct” was part of the major project and was finished within a week. The aim was to resolve the constructional problems of connecting various elements of the structures, developed within a previous project. After the review of “Creative constructs” project, it was suggested to resolve the connection on the bridge structure.

This particular part of the structure was represented by tensile and compressive members and can be characterized as a suspension bridge. Therefore the inspiration came from a series of connection details of suspension bridges

Location of the connection

Suspension bridge connection (Brantacan.co.uk, 2015)

Father Louis Hennepin bridge connection, Minneapolis (Johnweeks.com, 2015).

3D Construct: Connection detail

This time project also began with a completely different approach to the design process. It was suggested to start with a series of collages, which would represent the main space of the future building. Previous projects helped to understand the area of Levenshulme and draw some conclusions and impressions about it. From my point of view, Levenshulme revealed itself as “rusty” and rather melancholy area. Moreover there were no place, where people could gather and community seemed to be scattered. The idea came to mind while working on a composition of the collage. It was decided to create a space where community can come together and socialize, while preserving the mood and character of Levenshulme and seeing “rust and grunge” as a beautiful representation of the surrounding environment.

Collage: Imaginary room

Further collages explored the possible design of the threshold between the building and site. From the very beginning there were no planned design solution and the workflow was free and unpredictable. Each image, that was used, dictated the composition solution. The final result developed some ideas and possible appearance of the building, as well as type of the materials, that could possibly be used.

Chapel of St. Basil, University of St. Thomas, Houston TX (Pinterest.com, 2015)

Base image used for collage, Chapel of St. Basil (Pinterest.com, 2015)

Entrance study collages

While undertaking analysis the emphasis was made not only on Levenshulme, but on the culture of the United Kingdom as well. Thoughts and ideas were triggered by the documentary film “England in general and particular”, which had been watched during the project period. In one of the series Vladimir Pozner (host) talked about public houses and their mark in the history of Great Britain.

He stated that Public houses played a great role in the society and were used as a place, where all the local citizens gathered and socialized. Therefore this idea and the fact, that nowadays Pubs have lost their primary meaning and identity, provoked the creation of the building , which will revolve the primary meaning of the public houses. This was followed by the further research into the history of public houses in Great Britain, which investigated the specifications of public houses and their changes in history from 1830 year. The idea of “water based design” was put forward, which influenced the shape of the modular spaces. There were also some ideas about including “water features” into the design (as seen on the previous page). However, while the project progressed, new ideas emerged and “water features” were not included in the project.

Shot from the documentary (England in general and particular, 2015)

Programme research and development

During the Framing Levenshulme project, the group decided to keep the scope of the topics researched to just 4 things. So transport, history, sensory analysis and demographics were chosen. Three of the topics are about Levenshulme as a whole, but the sensory analysis is specific to each one of the sites. Group work helped to enrich knowledge about Levenshulme and make right decisions in the design process.

The original presentation with animation can be found HERE

Group presentation

Group work: Framing Levenshulme

After group and personal analysis, the area of Levenshulme station was chosen as a site for the future building, due to its characteristics. The most significant are: the location of the site in relation to the transport links as well as the tunnel under the railway line.

Photograph of the arch in the railway viaduct

Existing site plan

Existing site section

The area was analyzed using series of diagrams, which explored traffic, human circulation, spatial qualities and green spaces. As it was mentioned before, special attention was drawn to the arc under the railway line. The archway represents the transition space from the main road to the Levenshulme station. Regardless the fact that it is close to the main vibrant area of Stockport road, the place is dangerous because of the crimes that happen there. This fact was also considered in the project, in order to change the quality of space. Moreover the transport links, that are present on site, are also very important. Stockport road and, especially the railway line and Levenshulme station bring people to the area. Therefore public house can also serve as a place, where people can wait for their train or meet travelling relatives or friends.

Site location and analysis diagrams

Firstly, some rough ideas were introduced in order to enhance and develop the viaduct area, from being a criminal place, to the building, that can be admired and visited by the community of Levenshulme. The primary idea was to react on spatial and circulation analysis of the site, and develop the building, which will be inserted into the archway with the extensions on both sides. The modular spaces were decided to represent a platonic shape of water. The modules were then organized and created the building shape.

Similar project was noticed in the Dezeen magazine, where Undercurrent Architects created a home and studio for a photographer, which are squeezed beside and beneath the arch of a railway viaduct in south London. As Frearson (2012) the most challenging problem was how to amplify a keyhole site and bring light deep into the railway arch” However too much light in the project of “Revival of the public house” wasn’t needed, on the contrary the objective was to create poorly lit space underneath the arch with dominance of artificial light.

Exterior view, Archway studios (Frearson, 2012)

Interior view, Window openings, Archway studios (Frearson, 2012)

Spatial organisation study

Another key step in the design process was to introduce local brewery in Levenshulme, which could serve beer to the public house. Therefore to understand organization of breweries and their key characteristics, London Meantime Brewery was visited.

Diagrammatic roof plan

The proposal consists of 2 parts, which are connected by the bar area, that runs through the archway to the atrium of the public house. Modular spaces were organized round the atrium and serve different purposes. Modules on the 1st floor represent accommodation for travellers, which was typical for public houses many years ago. Ground floor modules have seating are installed inside and accommodate companies and small groups of people, who may enjoy beer or a cup of tea together. The ideas of modular spaces were influenced by the project by Thechne Architects.

The Prahran Hotel is a substantial two storey corner pub with a striking streamlined art deco facade. The rear of the venue had a poorly proportioned, internalised single storey extension and the clients brief for the project called to demolish and replace it with a dramatic double height space with a central courtyard. Whilst the space has the appeal of some spatial drama, the design’s success will be measured by the quality of the ambience and intimacy of the interior. Much effort was made to ensure that patrons have a variety of ways of gathering: private spaces contrast more social areas, there are places for couples and larger groups, and the circulation loops through both levels which encourages a voyeuristic procession through the old and new areas of the pub (ArchDaily, 2013)

Interior view of the Prahran Hotel(ArchDaily, 2013)

Facade of the Prahran Hotel(ArchDaily, 2013)

Floor plans

The accent was made on a difference between chaotic and calm space. The chaotic and industrial brewing area, which was inspired by the visit to the Meantime Brewery in London, contrasts with calm and cosy space of a bar area. Two contrasting spaces are tied together with pipes, which serve beer directly from the brewery, to the bar area.

Longitudal section

Elevations. top-West, bottom left-North, bottom right- East

Cantilever structures were tweaked and adjusted , in order to be installed into the brewing area and serve as a primary structure.

Post and beam structure was put into context of the public house part to support the structure of the second floor.

Heavy construction and its light transmitting functions were used to design the roof system with similar openings to create intriguing atmosphere.

Structural strategy

A series of studies of the modular space were undertaken in order to understand interior planning and materials, that were planned to be used in construction process.

Plaster casting was used in order to represent construction process. Despite the fact, that the end result didn’t meet the expectations, the technique that was used in the process created an interesting pattern.

Material study of the module.

Interior study of the module

Model photograph Material study

Interior study: Threshold between brewery and pub

Interior render

Graphic Anthropology

Graphic anthropology assignment introduced new methods and ubique theories about site analysis, which can be improved and incorporated in future projects.

Considering the fact that the building consists of 2 main elements - the brewery and «the public house» (common bar) area, the decision was made to fully resolve only 1 part of the building. This was done in order to demonstrate and fully explore structure and characteristics of 1 part of the building, rather than having 2 parts, which are not resolved completely.

The preference was given to the common area of the public house, due to the fact that it has interesting and, at the same time, unusual junctions that are very challenging to investigate.

Detailed section

Two of the most intriguing details were analyzed thoroughly: Floor to post and beam; post and beam to floor and roof to wall connections. In order to introduce light strategy, which was considered for the roof, details A-B adresses the idea of installing glass blocks in the holes between the corten steel sheets.While detail A-A represents the connection between mesh floor on the 1st floor and post and beam, which is installed into the ground floor plane.

According to Prouvé et al. (2006) the post and beam constructions are not just placed on the surface, but installed into the ground plane, where thay are attached to supporting member.

Construction details of the Ferembal house(Prouvé et al., 2006)

Construction details

While undertaking staircase study the question arised whether the design of the stairs should be complex or minimal? The interior of the building follows the minimalistic style, especially in the usage of shapes and materials, but at the same time lacks a «beacon» that will attract the visitors and amplify the atmosphere. The design of the stairs comprises both complexity and minimalism.On one hand the positioning of vertical pipes in a chaotic order creates a sense of complex design, on the other hand usage of one material (old folded steel) and repetitive pattern balances the composition.

According to Building regulations: Approved Document K - Protection from falling, collision and impact, (2013) and Adler (1999) general requirements and measurements were applied to the stairs.

Staircase, design process sketches.

Staircase study

The aesthetics of the stairs were largerly inspired by the Storage Associati, particularly the lightning strategy, which was implemented to create a number of shadows. The lightning is installed in the ceiling above the stairs, and along with vertical panels this creates an interesting play of light around the staircase itself.

Staircase, 1st floor (Storage Associati, 2013)

Staircase study. Interior perspective

However the wooden panels, which were used as a primary material, were changed to small pipes of different diameters and the folded metal. These steps were performed in order to match the atmosphere and theme of the building.

Staircase light study

The outside finishes of the building correspond to the mood and surroundings of the site. This made the building less distracting and allowed it to blend into the surroundings of Levenshulme station. The overall aesthetics of the building were largerly inspired by the buildings of Le Corbusier, which were explored during the study trip, and also by brutalist architecture.

Exterior perspective

Carl Fingerhuth, Pavilion, Lausanne 1964 (Pinterest, 2015)

Welbeck Street car park, London (Pinterest, 2015)

Another problem was faced during the study of construction details. Because of the fact that exposed concrete was the primary material, which was used for the building, the possibility of constructing «the modules» was questionable. However after the consultation with tutors, it was advised that the construction can happen offsite, where 2 parts of the modules are casted separately using molds and then joined together and sealed . After that the modules can be transported to the site for the assembly stage.

Exploded axonometric

In terms of environmental performance, building uses a simple strategy. The trees that are planted across the perimeter of the building, help to reduce wind load as well as heat loss. The angled roof allows the rainwater easily travel down to the ground. It then can get to the small canal, which connects the trees together, serving like a watering facility. The rainwater can be also filtered through the gravel-to the filter barrel, purified and stored for the future use.

Environmental study

Water collection diagram

Heating and cooling diagram

Light strategy diagram

From the beginning of 1st year I became very passionate about rendering and presentation techniques, that are used by the architects worldwide. Therefore I researched and learned from the websites of CGI artists and architects. While Skills sessions provided me with basic information that I already knew by that time, some extra websites, blogs and Lynda tutorials helped me to push my skills further. This page contains images of the blogs on architectural visualisation and design software, which influenced my workflow and presentation techniques. The skills, that I gained and developed during my 2nd year of Part 1 Architecture course can be traced through the whole portfolio.

Conclusion

In conclusion 2 projects successfully resolved and enhanced the area of Levenshulme, introduced area oriented buildings and spaces, while preserving aesthetics and appearance of the surrounding area. This was achieved by a continuous process of analysis and development. New ways of approaching the design process helped to enrich skills and view architecture on a different angle. Designing component s conceptually from abstraction inspired new ideas and progressed to a complete design resolution. Projects presented in this portfolio taught to understand the different complexities of building design and developed awareness and understanding of an urban site. On my opinion, the most important aspect of architecture that was learned during the 2nd year course is understanding of the local context in terms of the relationship between people, buildings and environment and relating building and associating urban spaces to people’s needs and scale.

Visualisingarchitecture.com (2015) ronenbekerman.com (2015) peterguthrie.com (2015) The Third & The Seventh. (2010)

The Third & The Seventh. (2010)

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Prouvé, J., Vegesack, A., Reichlin, B. and Dumont d’Ayot, C. (2006). Jean Prouvé. Weil am Rhein: Vitra Design Stiftung.

Storage Associati, (2013). The staircase by Storage Associate creates a visual paradox. [image] Available at: http://www.homecrux.com/2014/08/06/18991/this-staircase-by-storage-associati-creates-a-visual-paradox.html [Accessed 27 Apr. 2015].

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