So far I have immersed myself in the local history,
the surrounding site, obesogenic town centre and ever expanding urban sprawl.
The natural setting of the site has been recorded meticulously from multiple
angles as visible in the attached link summarizing my latest trip. I have taken
on-site dimensions of existing structures and key measurements which will be
added to a CAD plan once attained.
My intention as you also suggested was to bring the
river into use; the development can play with the water’s edge architecturally,
whilst physically being used for boating activities.
An interesting avenue of exploration I have
encountered is that of biophilic design, a concept which exploits a deep rooted
biological mechanism in humans to need nature in a fundamental way. Natural settings can reduce stress, enhance
well-being and act as a powerful restorative force on an individual constantly
bombarded by the constructs of modern society. Its core objective is to reconnect
people to the natural world enhancing the environments where we live, work and
learn.
The examples you mention, Chipperfield’s Wakefield
gallery and The Brion - Vega cemetery in the Veneto, are two very stimulating
designs. I will endeavour to search for
more precedents of a similar nature which will form the basis of my next post.
How exciting Shane! I can't wait ot hear more about biophilic design, and how this can work with what the site offers. Love to see your intense, up close and dirty exploations of mud, leaves, water, sweat, iron, etc etc. Get close. Sense the space and the bio around you. I'm actually in Tamworth briefly on Friday - I arrive at 5:09pm at the station, if you're free and want a quick supervision. Bring material with you.
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