Coal Loader Project Submission

 As the original pdf is too large to upload, below is a link to my presentation file for ease of marking and viewing.

 https://www.dropbox.com/s/lv96rrddcv5xnd3/Presentation%20.pdf

 


 
"Presentation speech"

Through this project I focus on architecture’s ability to revive the somewhat static, ‘empty shell’ like quality of old infrastructure as well as its ability to amplify existing spatial conditions through the application of new ‘skins’.

CONCEPT: ARCHITECTURE AS A ‘SKIN’

The application of ‘new skins’ to the existing, old, natural skin, stimulating new circulation and spatial experiences as well as facilitating for experimental art.

THE STREET
External Skin:  ‘interstitial space’:

Utilising a steel truss system supporting a glazed roof, An external ‘skin’ has been provided over the existing buildings, creating a unique and intensified experience of the street as one moves between the old masonry structures and the new steel roof system.  

As seen in plan, the private, staff spaces are situated at ground level, the circulation through these spaces are linear and formalised to allow for efficiency and ease of access. However, the public circulation, fluid and experimental is elevated above the existing structures. (See circulation diagrams) This ‘inbetween’/’interstitial’ space, where one is above the old roof structure and under the new steel roof becomes an expansive, semi-open space for experimental Art. Art can be situated on existing roofs, hanging from steel roof structure etc.

In the street space, as well as in various other areas in the site, lighting is controlled by a system of Louvers – see detail. (Electrical conduits for artificial lighting placed in-between Louvres)  This allows for a level of artist control over a subtle but significant atmospheric element.

COAL LOADER LID: a contemplative, communal space for gardens and art sculptures.

The greenhouse
 Extending from the community gardens on ‘the street’. The greenhouse is built on top of the coal-loader in such a way that the individual moves seamlessly through ‘the street’ onto the garden roof of the greenhouse or down a ramp through to the greenhouse (see sections and models). A series of circular skylights, where some extend to the ground to provide a completely open garden space (see section and model), captures atmospheric elements from ‘the street’ where one moves between enclosed, to semi-open to open spaces.

The individual moves from the communal, greenhouse space through a series of linear garden and sculpture spaces towards private, garden spaces located on the harbour side of the coal loader lid. As opposed to an expansive and overwhelming view of the harbour, specific harbour views are framed through a series of wall openings at varying sizes. Individuals sit and contemplate the framed views under the shelter of trees, with gentle trickles of water in the backdrop.  (see diagrams)

TUNNELS:

 Internalised skin

the steel skin of the street is inverted, providing an internalised tunnel skin. A steel grid structure (mesh applied on a furring system) that follows the arch of the tunnel and acts as a structural facilitator for future experimental artists. Freedom and versatility – facilitates, not dictates what experimental art was to be placed.

Left: external street skin
Right: Internalised tunnel skin 






Underground garden
The natural sanctuary space at the end of the tunnel is extended into the middle tunnel. This underground garden, open to natural lighting above acts as a central reference point for individuals to meander away from the intensive vaulted art spaces, (see models, plans and section)

Artist studio

Artists are designated three cells to exhibit their work. The studio spaces are double celled, connected through a void in the separating wall and raised above ground to allow natural light from above. (See tunnel section). Lighting is once again controlled by the artist in both the studio spaces as well as the exhibition areas below through an internal louver system.  (see detail)

Ampitheatre
Concrete skin and framed views

The sandstone staircase leads down to an underground foyer that branches out to amphitheatre spaces which respond to the nature of the site which slopes in three directions. Constructed from concrete, the amphitheatre works below the natural ground ‘skin’ to frame views (the water reserve and shipping dock) providing an open, site specific theatre backdrop for performances.