Studio 3.2 Portfolio by Benedetta Rizzo

STUDIO 3.2

Benedetta Rizzo - MAKING

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT Breaking the scheme: the “light” tower that subverts the conventional inside-outside boundaries and plays with human perceptions

16/05/2022

STUDIO 3.2

Benedetta Rizzo - MAKING

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT Breaking the scheme: the “light” tower that subverts the conventional inside-outside boundaries and plays with human perceptions

16/05/2022

TABLE OF CONTENTS 3-4 RECAP 3.1

5-15 PROCESS

16-19 SITE ANALYSIS

20-33 RESOLVING

33-48 FINAL OUTPUTS 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS 3-4 RECAP 3.1

5-15 PROCESS

16-19 SITE ANALYSIS

20-33 RESOLVING

33-48 FINAL OUTPUTS 2

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - REFLECTION PAGE 3.1

- POSITION: Creating a pleasant working space which is both aesthetically pleasing as well as comfortable and sustainable

- PROPOSAL: Continue developing the idea of using fabric to create shadows as well as seeing how these would adapt to the needs of a work space

- PREVIOUS ACHIEVEMENTS: - Experimentation of main thesis: playing with lights - Development of a concept for the pavilion, later translated into the tower - Initial understanding of site boundaries, conditions and users; this lead to making an initial proposal apt to users - Initial translation of pavilion into tower, this needs refinement in 3.2

- NEXT STEPS: - Develop a precise scheme and programme for the office; investigate the ergonomics of an office space - Get a better grasp of the structure and smart surface technique from the Soft House precedent - Further the study of materiality and use of fabric for cladding - Develop clear and defined interior spaces, with precise atmospheres and different purposes - Explore further the garden study - Further the landscaping scheme started with the pavilion to area of site occupied by tower - Adjust the core layout - Investigate the structural needs of towers - Refine the rings and their purpose

R E S E A R C H / E X P E R I M E N TAT I O N

PAV I L I O N

INITIAL TOWER RESOLUTION

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - REFLECTION PAGE 3.1

- POSITION: Creating a pleasant working space which is both aesthetically pleasing as well as comfortable and sustainable

- PROPOSAL: Continue developing the idea of using fabric to create shadows as well as seeing how these would adapt to the needs of a work space

R E S E A R C H / E X P E R I M E N TAT I O N

PAV I L I O N

INITIAL TOWER RESOLUTION

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - REFLECTION PAGE 3.1 In order to take the pavilion project and ‘transform it’ into a skyscraper project, it was first necessary to breakdown it fundamental elements and analyses the role played by them within the design. This helped understand which elements to transfer into the tower as well as understanding which performance they would deliver within it. After doing so, a rough initial sketch for a potential tower design was made.

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: DEVELOPING THE TOWER Testing different volumes and shapes in order to define the general layout and form of the tower. Each change is analysed quickly through the orange comments. The final chosen shape is relatively simple within its core, but more complex on the outside through its fabric cladding and metal intrication. This was done on purpose to create a neat contrast between the interiors, which will be kept quite minimalist and the more extravagant exteriors. The rings will be holding the fabric still and will be supported by the main frame of the tower expanded at the corners.

BASIC 40X50M R E C TA N G U L A R TOWER

TWISTED TOWER E F F E C T N O T S AT I S F Y I N G B A S I C 4 0 X 4 0 M O R R E A L LY L I N K E D T O TOWER - MORE PAV I L I O N C O M PA C T

ADDITION OF RINGS TO SQUARED TOWER - NICE CONTRAST OF SHAPES

ADDITION OF RINGS TO BASIC 30X60M TOWER - LESS BASIC 40M RADIUS CYLINDRICAL TOWER CYLINDRICAL TOWER ADD DYNAMIC A E S T H E T I C A N D C O M PA C T

PREVIOUS SIZE RINGS, BUT HEIGHT CHANGE - BETTER OVERALL EFFECT

SCALING UP RINGS AND HIGHERING TOWER - RINGS ARE D I S P R O P O R T I O N AT E B U T H E I G H T C H A N G E C R E AT E S E L O N G AT I O N

CHANGING GAP O R I E N TAT I O N T O F O L L O W R I N G P AT H S - N I C E EFFECT BUT COULD BE HARD TO HAVE SLANTED ELEMENTS

BREAKING OFF TOWER FOR GARDENS ILLUSION OF F L O AT I N G F R O M PAV I L I O N

ADDING FRAME FOR RINGS AND CORE

BASIC 40X50M R E C TA N G U L A R TOWER

TWISTED TOWER E F F E C T N O T S AT I S F Y I N G B A S I C 4 0 X 4 0 M O R R E A L LY L I N K E D T O TOWER - MORE PAV I L I O N C O M PA C T

ADDITION OF RINGS TO SQUARED TOWER - NICE CONTRAST OF SHAPES

ADDITION OF RINGS TO BASIC 30X60M TOWER - LESS BASIC 40M RADIUS CYLINDRICAL TOWER CYLINDRICAL TOWER ADD DYNAMIC A E S T H E T I C A N D C O M PA C T

PREVIOUS SIZE RINGS, BUT HEIGHT CHANGE - BETTER OVERALL EFFECT

SCALING UP RINGS AND HIGHERING TOWER - RINGS ARE D I S P R O P O R T I O N AT E B U T H E I G H T C H A N G E C R E AT E S E L O N G AT I O N

CHANGING GAP O R I E N TAT I O N T O F O L L O W R I N G P AT H S - N I C E EFFECT BUT COULD BE HARD TO HAVE SLANTED ELEMENTS

BREAKING OFF TOWER FOR GARDENS ILLUSION OF F L O AT I N G F R O M PAV I L I O N

ADDING FRAME FOR RINGS AND CORE

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: PERSONAL AGENDA

Breaking the scheme: creating a “light” tower that subverts the conventional inside-outside boundaries and plays with human perceptions

- SCHEME: Towers and high-rises are often considered by many as these heavy structure that disrupt the context they sit in. Whilst this can be a common characteristic of many towers, the idea behind this project is to break this wrong perception of towers, by creating an “atypical” high-rise project. - “LIGHT”: When using the term light, I refer mostly to visual lightness. Reprising the previous concept of the heavy perception of towers, the idea of the project would be to create the perception of a light-weight tower which appears as almost floating in certain instances. This lightness is not necessarily the reality of the structure, which will most likely be quite sturdy to support the weight of the many stories. - INSIDE-OUTSIDE BOUNDARIES: in order to aid the creation of this “visual lightness”, the tower will aim at blurring the boundary between inside and outside spaces and creating the illusion of infinite walls and spaces. - HUMAN PERCEPTIONS: across the tower, spaces will be designed to play with sensory perceptions. Whilst the office spaces will be kept quite rigorous in appearance to accommodate the ergonomics and requirements of work environments (spaces will still be kept light and spacious inside), the rest of the tower will feature a series of spaces for sensory experiences. These spaces will mostly be public to all visitors and feature plays of light and shadow, sound and thermal comfort. This is to reprise the idea of the pavilion of using shadows to define spaces.

VISUAL LIGHTNESS Designlovefest (2018) Fabric in the wind [Online image] [Accessed on 28th February 2022] http://www.designlovefest.com/2018/02/fabric-in-the-wind/

INSIDE-OUTSIDE BOUNDARIES Levine, J. (2019) A place to Chill [Online image] [Accessed on 28th February 2022]https://www.flickr.com/photos/jeremylevinedesign/49755086736/

HUMAN PERCEPTIONS United Visual Artists (2018) Spirit of the City [Online image] [Accessed on 28th February 2022]https://www.uva.co.uk/features/spirit-of-the-city

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: PERSONAL AGENDA

Breaking the scheme: creating a “light” tower that subverts the conventional inside-outside boundaries and plays with human perceptions

VISUAL LIGHTNESS Designlovefest (2018) Fabric in the wind [Online image] [Accessed on 28th February 2022] http://www.designlovefest.com/2018/02/fabric-in-the-wind/

INSIDE-OUTSIDE BOUNDARIES Levine, J. (2019) A place to Chill [Online image] [Accessed on 28th February 2022]https://www.flickr.com/photos/jeremylevinedesign/49755086736/

HUMAN PERCEPTIONS United Visual Artists (2018) Spirit of the City [Online image] [Accessed on 28th February 2022]https://www.uva.co.uk/features/spirit-of-the-city

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: PRECEDENT STUDY

The Treetop Experience, Haslev, 2017, EFFEKT Architect Magazine (2017) Courtesy Effekt [Online image] [Accessed on 11th December 2021] https://www.architectmagazine.com/project-gallery/camp-adventure-the-treetop-experience_o

SIMPLE RING GEOMETRY FOR SPECTACULAR EFFECTS

San Shan Bridge, Bejing, 2019, PENDA Penda (2016) Penda designs Olympic bridge made up of intersecting rings [Online image] [Accessed on 27th December 2022] https://www.dezeen.com/2016/07/21/san-shan-bridge-penda-arup-beijing-winterolympics-2022-china/

Iron Ring, Flint, GEORGE KING ARCHITECTS George King Architects (2017) Plans for “Iron Ring” Sculpture in Wales Put on Hold After Public Outcry [Online image] [Accessed on 22nd February 2022] https://www.archdaily.com/876575/plans-for-iron-ring-sculpture-in-wales-put-on-holdafter-public-outcry?ad_medium=gallery

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: PRECEDENT STUDY

SIMPLE RING GEOMETRY FOR SPECTACULAR EFFECTS

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: PRECEDENT STUDY San Shan Bridge, Bejing (2019), PENDA The San Shan Bridge was built by Penda Architects and commissioned for the 2022 Winter Olympics. The main concept that shaped the design of the bridge was the recreation of the Olympic rings: a way for the designers to honour the characteristic symbol. This resulted in a pre-stressed double-helix bridge spanning across the Gui River and creating a creating a contextual entrance to the games realm. The bridge is formed by three sets of arch-like steel structures, which intersect above and below the road surface. The support system for the rings is composed by high-strength steel cables, which interconnect the rings, support the bridge deck and create a woven-like pattern. A big aim behind the shaping of the structure was that of creating a very slender design, which would allow architects and engineers to use five times less steel that in conventional bridges.

Penda (2016) Penda designs Olympic bridge made up of intersecting rings [Online image] [Accessed on 27th December 2022] https://www.dezeen.com/2016/07/21/san-shan-bridgependa-arup-beijing-winter-olympics-2022-china/

4 POSSIBLE GAPS REPRESENTING GARDENS

3 B L O C K S R E P R E S E N T I N G O F F I C E S PA C E S

The idea of using this precedent would be making the bridge vertical and replicating the same structure as a tower rather than spanning bridge.

CONNECTION OF OVERLAPPING RINGS

S T R U C T U R A L A R R AY: F R O M S E C T I O N T O P L A N

4 POSSIBLE GAPS REPRESENTING GARDENS

3 B L O C K S R E P R E S E N T I N G O F F I C E S PA C E S

The idea of using this precedent would be making the bridge vertical and replicating the same structure as a tower rather than spanning bridge.

CONNECTION OF OVERLAPPING RINGS

S T R U C T U R A L A R R AY: F R O M S E C T I O N T O P L A N

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: PRECEDENT STUDY The Treetop Experience, Haslev (2017), EFFEKT The Treetop Experience is a 45m tall observation tower designed by Effekt. The tower’s main concept is to allow all visitors to take a walk above the Gisselfeld Kloster Skove forest it sits on and experience a stunning natural Danish views. The tower forms part of a wider walk path across the forest and acts as its culmination moment. The design of the tower revolves around the idea of enhancing the viewer’s experience of the forest, through a design which is curved in profile, slender at the waist and enlarged at the base and crown. The design of the tower allows for it to be more stable and maximise the span of the observation area. The curved ramp is the most predominant feature of the tower; it makes it accessible to all and, whilst keeping the same gradient across, its spacing fluctuates allows for a change in curvature. This precedent was taken in consideration mainly for its shape and use of walkable rings. The rings create a stunning effect over the forest in a vertically spanning way. Whilst the previous precedent had more interesting ring arrangements, this one is rather more simple and regular, as the rings are not for pure aesthetics but act as a ramp. In this case a diagrid structure was used to support the walkway, as the interior is hollow. For the tower, having a core could allow for an inside-out replica of this structure.

R I N G S C O U L D P O T E N T I A L LY B E U S E D T O M A K E GARDENS ACCESSIBLE TO PUBLIC

SUPPORTING STRUCTURE

IF RINGS ARE NOT PEDESTRIAN NO NEED FOR SUCH HEAVY FRAME

RAMP ARRANGED AS A VORTEX F O R PA N O R A M I C V I E W

Architect Magazine (2017) Courtesy Effekt [Online image] [Accessed on 11th December 2021] https:// www.architectmagazine.com/project-gallery/camp-adventure-the-treetop-experience_o

R I N G S C O U L D P O T E N T I A L LY B E U S E D T O M A K E GARDENS ACCESSIBLE TO PUBLIC

SUPPORTING STRUCTURE

IF RINGS ARE NOT PEDESTRIAN NO NEED FOR SUCH HEAVY FRAME

RAMP ARRANGED AS A VORTEX F O R PA N O R A M I C V I E W

Architect Magazine (2017) Courtesy Effekt [Online image] [Accessed on 11th December 2021] https:// www.architectmagazine.com/project-gallery/camp-adventure-the-treetop-experience_o

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: PRECEDENT STUDY Iron Ring, Flint, Wales, GEORGE KING ARCHITECTS Iron Ring is a large scale and imponent sculpture featured in the area of the Flint Castle. It takes the form of a 30m-diameter rusted steel ring and rests on the banks of The Dee Estuary. One of the main features of the ring architects carefully curated was its action at many scales. From afar, the sculpture has quite spectacular and striking appearance, resembling almost a giant ancient artefact that has been washed up to shore by the Dee Estuary. It immediately becomes a recognisable landmark for the area for viewers, even from afar. Its scale and form are quite dynamic and complemented by LED lighting. Once one approaches the ring further and ‘decreases’ its scale, it is immediately obvious that it is more than just a mere sculpture. The ring, in fact, acts as a giant walkway for visitors to travel over.

1.5M 4M

25M

SINGLE-PERSON W A L K W AY

30M

PRIMARY STRUCTURE

15M

7M F O U N D AT I O N PRIMARY STRUCTURE

The ring gently slopes above the ground, elevating visitors and providing them with views of the estuary and of Flint Castle. The side of the walkway is also enriched intricate engraving; on one side of the path one can even find an iconic Shakespearian quote taken from Richard II, in the moment the King is considering surrendering his throne. On its other side, the ring shapes into a giant compass, providing the name and direction of the other castles, as well as details of their own stories and legends. In such way, the ring becomes a link in the landmark between the castles, encouraging tourists to pay a visit to all features of the area.

Visually, the sculpture is obviously quite striking. It is designed as a cantilevered bridge structure of 30m in diameter, touching the earth gently at only two points.

Weathered steel was chosen as the main material of the structure, in order to allow for it to span up to 7 meters high and 30m wide. George King Architects (2017) Plans for “Iron Ring” Sculpture in Wales Put on Hold After Public Outcry [Online image] [Accessed on 22nd February 2022] https://www.archdaily.com/876575/plansfor-iron-ring-sculpture-in-wales-put-on-hold-after-public-outcry?ad_medium=gallery

George King Architects (2017) Plans for “Iron Ring” Sculpture in Wales Put on Hold After Public Outcry [Online image] [Accessed on 22nd February 2022] https://www.archdaily.com/876575/ plans-for-iron-ring-sculpture-in-wales-put-on-hold-after-public-outcry?ad_medium=gallery

1.5M 4M

25M

SINGLE-PERSON W A L K W AY

30M

PRIMARY STRUCTURE

15M

7M F O U N D AT I O N PRIMARY STRUCTURE

Visually, the sculpture is obviously quite striking. It is designed as a cantilevered bridge structure of 30m in diameter, touching the earth gently at only two points.

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT- PROCESS: INITIAL PLANS AND SECTIONS

GRID 1

GRID 2 Starting from the initial concept from 3.1, initial sketched developments were began. These focused mainly on the overall strategy, plan division and programmatic scheme. Initial structural grids were designed in order to set out the programme and structure of the building. Three different plans for the offices were also conceived for flexible working options within the tower. At this initial stage, the drawings still remained quite sketchy, as they were mainly focus around quick idea development and therefore did not require to be elaborate. These initial sketches were then taken into computer software for a more elaborate shape development.

TYPICAL STUDIO MEZZANINE FLOOR

INITIAL SECTION TYPICAL CONFERENCE ROOM FLOOR

T Y P I C A L S E P A R AT E D O F F I C E F L O O R

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT- PROCESS: INITIAL PLANS AND SECTIONS

GRID 1

TYPICAL STUDIO MEZZANINE FLOOR

INITIAL SECTION TYPICAL CONFERENCE ROOM FLOOR

T Y P I C A L S E P A R AT E D O F F I C E F L O O R

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: DEVELOPING THE TOWER Initial shape testing were conducted around the shaping and arrangement of the different blocks. To do such, a hybrid of computer and physical model making was used. Initially, a physical model of the boxes aligned was made, reprising the initial scheme of the tower according to 3.1. Secondly a lateral shifting movement was applied to the boxes. This iteration produced a nice enhancement of the balcony garden spaces. Lastly, a rotation movement was applied to the boxes. The boxes were gradually twisted to produce a 45° rotation across the tower. Whilst visually, this iteration was quite impactful, it was discarded due to the creation of many awkward spaces due to the grid limitation.

I T E R AT I O N 1

TYPICAL STUDIO MEZZANINE FLOOR

TYPICAL CONFERENCE ROOM FLOOR

T Y P I C A L S E P A R AT E D O F F I C E F L O O R

I T E R AT I O N 2 : B O X S H I F T I N G

I T E R AT I O N 3 : T W I S T I N G

I T E R AT I O N 1

TYPICAL STUDIO MEZZANINE FLOOR

TYPICAL CONFERENCE ROOM FLOOR

T Y P I C A L S E P A R AT E D O F F I C E F L O O R

I T E R AT I O N 2 : B O X S H I F T I N G

I T E R AT I O N 3 : T W I S T I N G

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: EXPLORING RINGS ARRANGEMENTS

INITIAL RINGS

90° TOP TWISTING

DEFORMING EXPRESSIVE RINGS

SPRINGING REGULAR RINGS

INITIAL RINGS: Replicating the ring arrangement from the precedent. Relatively small rings spaced out 90° TOP TWISTING: Increasing the size of the rings and keeping the same spacing; rotating the rings in pair at 90° DEFORMING EXPRESSIVE RINGS: Making the rings more dramatic and adding varying six across their surface; rings are too big to still be supported by floors (they could only be justified by being structural) SPRINGING REGULAR RINGS: Rings brought back to size of second iteration and arranged in a more regular spring arrangement; not as effective or elegant

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: EXPLORING RINGS ARRANGEMENTS

INITIAL RINGS

90° TOP TWISTING

DEFORMING EXPRESSIVE RINGS

SPRINGING REGULAR RINGS

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: EXPLORING RINGS ARRANGEMENTS

FADING RINGS EXPANDING

FADING RINGS SHRINKING

WALKWAY RINGS

THE BRACING RINGS

FADING RINGS EXPANDING: Returning to slanted rings but introducing a gradient; inspiring from slinky in compression and rarefaction, rings are thicker and more closely spaced at the bottom and slimmer and further apart on top FADING RINGS SHRINKING: Maintaining gradient through adjustment of ring sizes according to position, but giving regularity through the use of equal spacing across building; gradient gives off idea of building slowly fading into the sky WALKWAY RINGS: Trying to give rings a more specific function other than aesthetic; turning them into walkways that clash into the plans for access -> less organic and complicated structurally THE BRACING RINGS: Transforming rings into ‘ring-like’ cabling, which provides lateral stability and bracing to the building

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: EXPLORING RINGS ARRANGEMENTS

FADING RINGS EXPANDING

FADING RINGS SHRINKING

WALKWAY RINGS

THE BRACING RINGS

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: EXPLORING FABRIC ARRANGEMENTS INITIAL FABRIC ARRANGEMENT

ITERATION 1: FABRIC ACROSS VOLUMES

ITERATION 2: FABRIC ACROSS RINGS FABRIC ATTACHED TO THE RINGS

FABRIC ATTACHED TO THE CABLING

SMALLER PIECES FIXED AT SMALLER SPANS, PHYSICALLY MORE AVAILABLE (ESPECIALLY FOR RECYCLED FABRIC)

PIECES LET LOOSE TO THE WIND AND SPANNING ACROSS THE BLOCKS PIECES TOO BIG TO BE PHYSICALLY BUILD -ABLE

PIECES BECOME TOO DISTRACTING -> TOO MUCH GOING ON

Iteration 1 was based off of the fabric arrangement from 3.1, applied to the new rings arrangements. In this iteration, the fabric acts both as a shading system as well as a wind deflection system. However, physically having such massive pieces of fabric would be impossible, therefore new solutions have to be found.

Iteration 2 was aimed at finding a solution for the physical constraint of the fabric, in terms of size. In this iteration, the fabric is hung from the cabling in smaller pieces, still acting as shading and wind deflection systems. The smaller pieces would definitely contribute towards creating some shadow patterns, but those could be too distracting for an office building.

ITERATION 3: LOOSE FABRIC FROM GLAZING

ITERATION 4: ‘CURTAIN’ MOCK UP PANELS PIECES HUNG AND FIXED TOP AND BOTTOM AND LEFT LOOSE ON SIDES FOR MOVEMENT WITH WIND SMALLER PIECES SEPARATED BY BALCONY PIECES STILL A BIT DISTRACTING AND COULD BE UNCOMFORTABLE FOR BALCONY USERS

Iteration 3 was aimed at making the fabric use less distracting and better arranged. Instead of being connected to the rings or the cabling, the fabric is connected to the ‘inner’ part of the exterior clad. The fabric is fixed at the top and bottom end and left to move sideways. This approach makes the arrangement distracting and uncomfortable for balcony users.

WALLS ARRANGED TO LOOK LIKE CURTAINS BUT FIXED REGULAR PANELS THAT CONTRAST FLUIDITY OF RINGS AND HARMONIOUSLY MERGE WITH SQUARED BOXES PANELS FIXED BUT MORPHED TO APPEAR FLUID

Iteration 4 was aimed at using the previous attachment system for the fabric, but making it more regular, elegant and cleaner aesthetically. The use of regular panels works coherently with the boxes’ shapes and creates a bigger difference with the rings, making them stand out even more and the first visible feature of the design.

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - PROCESS: EXPLORING FABRIC ARRANGEMENTS INITIAL FABRIC ARRANGEMENT

ITERATION 1: FABRIC ACROSS VOLUMES

ITERATION 2: FABRIC ACROSS RINGS FABRIC ATTACHED TO THE RINGS

FABRIC ATTACHED TO THE CABLING

SMALLER PIECES FIXED AT SMALLER SPANS, PHYSICALLY MORE AVAILABLE (ESPECIALLY FOR RECYCLED FABRIC)

PIECES LET LOOSE TO THE WIND AND SPANNING ACROSS THE BLOCKS PIECES TOO BIG TO BE PHYSICALLY BUILD -ABLE

PIECES BECOME TOO DISTRACTING -> TOO MUCH GOING ON

ITERATION 3: LOOSE FABRIC FROM GLAZING

WALLS ARRANGED TO LOOK LIKE CURTAINS BUT FIXED REGULAR PANELS THAT CONTRAST FLUIDITY OF RINGS AND HARMONIOUSLY MERGE WITH SQUARED BOXES PANELS FIXED BUT MORPHED TO APPEAR FLUID

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - SITE ANALYSIS: URBAN CONTEXT: THE TRAM ORIGINAL TRAM LAYOUT

TRAM MOVEMENT FROM GROUND LEVEL TO UNDERGROUND CAR MOVEMENT

One of the most prominent features of the site is the tram, which crosses the entirety of the site footprint and splits it into half. The tram currently is the main feature and attraction of the place, as people predominantly use the brownfield as a passage to the stop.

BIGGEST PORTION OF SITE

The site is currently split by three axes:

ABANDONED PART OF SITE; NO ONE GOES THERE

AXE 1: Pollard street, bordering the site and creating its exterior boundary in the south direction AXE 2: the tram, running across the middle of the site and creating a central spine. Axe 1 and Axe 2 create the first part of the site, PART A AXE 3: the Ashton Canal, bordering the site and creating its exterior boundary in the north direction. Axe 2 and Axe 3 create the second part of the site, PART B

CIRCULATION LOOP IN PART A OF SITE

ONLY CONNECTION BETWEEN PART A AND B(OVER TRAM LINE)- DANGEROUS

In order to unify the site and make it more cohesive, it became quite clear that a strategy had to be adopted with the tram line. Three different strategies (shown here below) were considered:

DOG WALKERS LOOP

MOVEMENT PREDOMINANTLY AWAY FROM SITE

PROPOSAL 1: Move the tram line

LISTED BUILDINGS -> OLD COTTON MILLS

PROPOSAL 2: Bridge the tram line PROPOSAL 3: Partially cover up the ground surface of the tram line The latter strategy was adopted.

BUILDING CLOSER TO RIVER SO CAN’T BE USED FOR VIEWS IN HIGHER FLOORS; MAIN PANORAMIC ON CITYSCAPE CLUSTERED CIRCULATION AROUND BUILDING FOUNDATION

TRAM LINE OPEN AND FURTHER FROM FOUNDATIONS

CLOSER PROXIMITY TO RIVER - HIGHER FLOODING RISK

This solution is quite functional on site; however, in the real world moving a tram line would be quite complicated so a more realistic solution is needed

BUILDING FACES RIVER AND STATION - SHELTERED ON SOUTH FACADE AND LEFT FREE ON EAST AND NORTH DIVIDED AND CLUSTERED CIRCULATION FOUNDATION

SMALLER FOUNDATION CUT OUT TO MAKE SPACE FOR TRAM - LESS STABILITY

This solution is impractical on many levels: it creates unstable foundations and doesn’t aid the circulation across site

TRAM LINE OPEN

FREE CIRCULATION AT GROUND LEVEL FOUNDATION

TRAM LINE CLOSE TO FOUNDATION BUT UNTOUCHED BY IT DISPERSIVE DEAD END CIRCULATION

MOVING TRAM LINE

This solution allows for the tram to mainly be untouched and for the building to remain as conceived

MAIN POINT OF CONNECTION AND PASSAGE ON SITE ENDLESS CIRCULATION LOOP ACROSS ALL SITE

TRAM MOVED CLOSER TO POLLARD STREET

BRIDGING BUILDING

SUPPORT BEAM

MAIN POINT OF CONNECTION AND PASSAGE ON SITE

ENDLESS CIRCULATION LOOP IN UPPER PART OF SITE

MAIN POINT OF CONNECTION AND PASSAGE ON SITE

BUILDING FACES RIVER AND STATION - SHELTERED ON SOUTH FACADE AND LEFT FREE ON EAST AND NORTH

TRAM REMAINS UNCHANGED

SOUTH BUILDINGS SHELTER SITE FROM STRONG SOUTH WINDS

PARTIALLY COVERED TRAM LINE

TRAM REMAINS UNCHANGED

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - SITE ANALYSIS: URBAN CONTEXT: THE TRAM ORIGINAL TRAM LAYOUT

TRAM MOVEMENT FROM GROUND LEVEL TO UNDERGROUND CAR MOVEMENT

BIGGEST PORTION OF SITE

The site is currently split by three axes:

ABANDONED PART OF SITE; NO ONE GOES THERE

CIRCULATION LOOP IN PART A OF SITE

ONLY CONNECTION BETWEEN PART A AND B(OVER TRAM LINE)- DANGEROUS

In order to unify the site and make it more cohesive, it became quite clear that a strategy had to be adopted with the tram line. Three different strategies (shown here below) were considered:

DOG WALKERS LOOP

MOVEMENT PREDOMINANTLY AWAY FROM SITE

PROPOSAL 1: Move the tram line

LISTED BUILDINGS -> OLD COTTON MILLS

PROPOSAL 2: Bridge the tram line PROPOSAL 3: Partially cover up the ground surface of the tram line The latter strategy was adopted.

BUILDING CLOSER TO RIVER SO CAN’T BE USED FOR VIEWS IN HIGHER FLOORS; MAIN PANORAMIC ON CITYSCAPE CLUSTERED CIRCULATION AROUND BUILDING FOUNDATION

TRAM LINE OPEN AND FURTHER FROM FOUNDATIONS

CLOSER PROXIMITY TO RIVER - HIGHER FLOODING RISK

This solution is quite functional on site; however, in the real world moving a tram line would be quite complicated so a more realistic solution is needed

BUILDING FACES RIVER AND STATION - SHELTERED ON SOUTH FACADE AND LEFT FREE ON EAST AND NORTH DIVIDED AND CLUSTERED CIRCULATION FOUNDATION

SMALLER FOUNDATION CUT OUT TO MAKE SPACE FOR TRAM - LESS STABILITY

This solution is impractical on many levels: it creates unstable foundations and doesn’t aid the circulation across site

TRAM LINE OPEN

FREE CIRCULATION AT GROUND LEVEL FOUNDATION

TRAM LINE CLOSE TO FOUNDATION BUT UNTOUCHED BY IT DISPERSIVE DEAD END CIRCULATION

MOVING TRAM LINE

This solution allows for the tram to mainly be untouched and for the building to remain as conceived

MAIN POINT OF CONNECTION AND PASSAGE ON SITE ENDLESS CIRCULATION LOOP ACROSS ALL SITE

TRAM MOVED CLOSER TO POLLARD STREET

BRIDGING BUILDING

SUPPORT BEAM

MAIN POINT OF CONNECTION AND PASSAGE ON SITE

ENDLESS CIRCULATION LOOP IN UPPER PART OF SITE

MAIN POINT OF CONNECTION AND PASSAGE ON SITE

BUILDING FACES RIVER AND STATION - SHELTERED ON SOUTH FACADE AND LEFT FREE ON EAST AND NORTH

TRAM REMAINS UNCHANGED

SOUTH BUILDINGS SHELTER SITE FROM STRONG SOUTH WINDS

PARTIALLY COVERED TRAM LINE

TRAM REMAINS UNCHANGED

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - SITE ANALYSIS: DAYLIGHT, DIRECT SOLAR EXPOSURE AND CONTEXT BUILDING FABRIC Understanding the site starts from understanding its physical conditions. One of the most important characteristics of a site is the context building network and the access to direct sunlight of the space. Appraising the different levels of luminosity in the different parts of the site means properly evaluating the best place for passive solar strategies and the places where glare is to be avoided. In the case of the site, the context buildings are almost irrelevant to its sun exposure so mostly all points are similar in that aspect.

SITE

54m 24m

17m

13m

11m 8m

27m

20m

24m

26m

15m 21m 32m 20m

20m 27m

UNDERGROUND TRAM

20m

24m 15m 18m

27m 21m

Context buildings are relatively high; however, when compared to the height of the tower (150m) they become relatively small. This means that most likely they will not be overshadowing any elevation of the tower and, on the contrary, they might be overshadowed. This is something to be conscious of.

MOST LIT SPACE LEFT FOR PAVILION

LEAST LIT PART OF SITE IS THE ONE FACING SOUTH - NOT REALLY PROBLEM AS TOWER IS MASSIVELY HIGHER THAN CONTEXT

SITE IS QUITE FREE OF BUILDINGS AS A BIG BROWNFIELD -> MAKES IT QUITE WELL SOLAR EXPOSED

TOTAL SOLAR EXPOSURE: direct + indirect solar exposure

JUNE 21st, 12pm SUMMER SOLSTICE

UNDERGROUND TRAM

MOST LIT SPACE LEFT FOR PAVILION

LEAST LIT PART OF SITE IS THE ONE FACING SOUTH - NOT REALLY PROBLEM AS TOWER IS MASSIVELY HIGHER THAN CONTEXT

9 AM

3 PM

QUITE POOR DIRECT SUNLIGHT -> SITE ITSELF IS NOT OVERSHADOWED, THIS IS DUE TO MANCHESTER’S TYPICAL GREY SKY

DIRECT SOLAR EXPOSURE: direct radiation coming from the sun

DECEMBER 21st- WINTER SOLSTICE 9 AM

3 PM

UNDERGROUND TRAM

MOST LIT SPACE LEFT FOR PAVILION

LEAST LIT PART OF SITE IS THE ONE FACING SOUTH - NOT REALLY PROBLEM AS TOWER IS MASSIVELY HIGHER THAN CONTEXT

MARCH 21st- SPRING EQUINOX / SEPTEMBER 21st - AUTUMN EQUINOX

INDIRECT SOLAR EXPOSURE: radiation from the sky dome + reflected radiation

VERY GOOD LEVELS OF INDIRECT RADIATION -> MAKES UP FOR RELATIVELY POORER DIRECT RADIATION

SITE

54m 24m

17m

13m

11m 8m

27m

20m

24m

26m

15m 21m 32m 20m

20m 27m

UNDERGROUND TRAM

20m

24m 15m 18m

27m 21m

MOST LIT SPACE LEFT FOR PAVILION

LEAST LIT PART OF SITE IS THE ONE FACING SOUTH - NOT REALLY PROBLEM AS TOWER IS MASSIVELY HIGHER THAN CONTEXT

SITE IS QUITE FREE OF BUILDINGS AS A BIG BROWNFIELD -> MAKES IT QUITE WELL SOLAR EXPOSED

TOTAL SOLAR EXPOSURE: direct + indirect solar exposure

JUNE 21st, 12pm SUMMER SOLSTICE

UNDERGROUND TRAM

MOST LIT SPACE LEFT FOR PAVILION

LEAST LIT PART OF SITE IS THE ONE FACING SOUTH - NOT REALLY PROBLEM AS TOWER IS MASSIVELY HIGHER THAN CONTEXT

9 AM

3 PM

QUITE POOR DIRECT SUNLIGHT -> SITE ITSELF IS NOT OVERSHADOWED, THIS IS DUE TO MANCHESTER’S TYPICAL GREY SKY

DIRECT SOLAR EXPOSURE: direct radiation coming from the sun

DECEMBER 21st- WINTER SOLSTICE 9 AM

3 PM

UNDERGROUND TRAM

MOST LIT SPACE LEFT FOR PAVILION

LEAST LIT PART OF SITE IS THE ONE FACING SOUTH - NOT REALLY PROBLEM AS TOWER IS MASSIVELY HIGHER THAN CONTEXT

MARCH 21st- SPRING EQUINOX / SEPTEMBER 21st - AUTUMN EQUINOX

INDIRECT SOLAR EXPOSURE: radiation from the sky dome + reflected radiation

VERY GOOD LEVELS OF INDIRECT RADIATION -> MAKES UP FOR RELATIVELY POORER DIRECT RADIATION

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - SITE ANALYSIS: ORIENTATION AND FABRIC ARRANGEMENTS DECEMBER 21st, 10AM- WINTER SOLSTICE

BLOCKS ALIGNED

DECEMBER 21st, 3PM- WINTER SOLSTICE BLOCKS ALIGNED

After testing the daylight levels of the site and playing around with the shape physically through the previous shown series of models, it was time to combine the two practices and test the shape shifting according to its solar exposure. Ater the previously mentioned series of testing, the boxes had been decided to take on a ‘shifting’ approach. Therefore, these experiments were also centred around the practice of shifting.

1. Firstly the tower was tested without any shifting; this was done in order to get a better understanding of the solar exposure of the building within its various elevations. The north and west façades were noticed to be the least lit ones within the proposal. The west facade, as the one facing the main road, had already been discarded in terms of views and emphasis. The north facade, however, is a quite critical one in terms of views, as it is the one facing the river. Therefore strategies will have to be implemented to enhance it light-wise and maintain its key view 2. Simple left and right shifting were implemented on the boxes; slight improvements were made in terms of solar exposure of the west and east facade. However, the sky gardens remained quite unlit

3. The previous move was combined with a series of back and forth shifts; this strategy allows for the tower to have a much more dynamic effect with a lower degree of stepping (better structurally). Improvements were made in terms of the lightness of the sky gardens, but the solar exposure of the north, west and east elevations remained the same as the second iteration. Therefore, further strategies will have to be implemented

SE BLOCKS SHIFTED ON S ELEVATION

NW BLOCKS ALIGNED ON E ELEVATION

BLOCKS SHIFTED ON N ELEVATION

TOTAL SOLAR EXPOSURE: direct + indirect solar exposure

BLOCKS ALIGNED ON W ELEVATION

2 SE BLOCKS SHIFTED ON S ELEVATION

NW BLOCKS SHIFTED ON E ELEVATION

BLOCKS SHIFTED ON N ELEVATION

SE BLOCKS SHIFTED ON W ELEVATION

SOME FABRIC SHADING -> SMALLER PIECES

NW SOME FABRIC SHADING -> SMALLER PIECES

MOST FABRIC SHADING -> POSSIBLY BIGGER PIECES

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - SITE ANALYSIS: ORIENTATION AND FABRIC ARRANGEMENTS DECEMBER 21st, 10AM- WINTER SOLSTICE

BLOCKS ALIGNED

DECEMBER 21st, 3PM- WINTER SOLSTICE BLOCKS ALIGNED

SE BLOCKS SHIFTED ON S ELEVATION

NW BLOCKS ALIGNED ON E ELEVATION

BLOCKS SHIFTED ON N ELEVATION

TOTAL SOLAR EXPOSURE: direct + indirect solar exposure

BLOCKS ALIGNED ON W ELEVATION

2 SE BLOCKS SHIFTED ON S ELEVATION

NW BLOCKS SHIFTED ON E ELEVATION

BLOCKS SHIFTED ON N ELEVATION

SE BLOCKS SHIFTED ON W ELEVATION

SOME FABRIC SHADING -> SMALLER PIECES

NW SOME FABRIC SHADING -> SMALLER PIECES

MOST FABRIC SHADING -> POSSIBLY BIGGER PIECES

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - SITE ANALYSIS: LOCATION APPRAISAL After some careful consideration and analysis of the site, the following position was chosen to be most appropriate for the tower: - Close to river and in a quite well lit area of the site, close to the tram enough so people can reach the office from it, but not close enough so it disturbs it - Close to main perpendicular road so it can provide direct access to cars - Well connected for all types of transport and well-lit

40 m

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: PROGRAMME STUDY One of the RIBA’s sustainable outcomes is regarding mixed-used spaces. Therefore I decided to make my tower more than a simple office building and provide it with a wide range of activities. Most of the floors are office spaces, suited for different sizes of businesses and for flexible working patters. The mixed-use spaces comprise mainly of public activities revolved around sensory experiences and a reconnection with nature. The programme was mostly organised vertically rather than by floor plate.

S K Y R E S TA U R A N T A N D C A F É SKY GYM PLANT ROOMS: Ground floor 15th floor 24 t h f l o o r OFFICE FLOORS SKY GARDENS + BALCONIES GROUND BLOCK MUSEUMS Light Exhibitions

+ B A S E M E N T F O U N D AT I O N ( PA R K I N G )

S K Y R E S TA U R A N T A N D C A F É SKY GYM PLANT ROOMS: Ground floor 15th floor 24 t h f l o o r OFFICE FLOORS SKY GARDENS + BALCONIES GROUND BLOCK MUSEUMS Light Exhibitions

+ B A S E M E N T F O U N D AT I O N ( PA R K I N G )

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: COMMUNITY STUDY It is important that the building enhances its surrounding communities, adding to the public realm and facilities. Therefore, it includes multiple public spaces which would be accessible to everyone. These include planted areas and focus on user experience. The enhancement to the public realm is essential to the building’s integration within its environment. The building has a public to private to public approach; the facade of each block reflects their public or private nature. When public, the floors are kept mainly glazed, to allow plenty of daylight into the spaces. When private, the blocks incorporate more wall built-ups to allow for both thermal and light comfort.

S M A L L R E G U L A R S L I T S A LT E R N AT E D WITH GLAZING FOR SEMI-PUBLIC BLOCK F U L LY G L A Z E D P U B L I C B L O C K

R E G U L A R W A L L B U I LT- U P F O R O F F I C E FLOORS -> THERMAL + LIGHT COMFORT FOR WORK

P R I V AT E S P A C E S Office floors Office balconies

P U B L I C S PA C E S Ground Floor Lobby Exhibition Floors Sky Restaurants Sky Gym Sky Gardens Park + Skating Ring

LANDSCAPING S K AT I N G R I N K

S M A L L R E G U L A R S L I T S A LT E R N AT E D WITH GLAZING FOR SEMI-PUBLIC BLOCK F U L LY G L A Z E D P U B L I C B L O C K

R E G U L A R W A L L B U I LT- U P F O R O F F I C E FLOORS -> THERMAL + LIGHT COMFORT FOR WORK

P R I V AT E S P A C E S Office floors Office balconies

P U B L I C S PA C E S Ground Floor Lobby Exhibition Floors Sky Restaurants Sky Gym Sky Gardens Park + Skating Ring

LANDSCAPING S K AT I N G R I N K

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: STRUCTURAL PRECEDENT Prince Plaza, Shekou (2012-2020), OMA ARCHITECTS The Prince Plaza in Shenzen is a office skyscraper designed by Dutch architecture firm OMA. I consists of a tower with three cut-out terraces embellished with golden hexagons. The tower is 200-meter tall in total and was built for the property company China Merchants Shekou Holdings, to be located on the waterfront in Shenzhen’s Shekou district. The tower is made of four bars attached to a central core. One of its main features are the three sky decks, which are highlighted by a hexagon-patterned facade. These are conceived as viewing platforms that take full advantage of the view corridor without obstructing it. They allow for open vistas of the mountains and the sea. The sky decks act as breaks to the monolithic structure of the tower. The four bars are made of different sizes, which respond to architecture of distinctive scales in the surroundings. The two bars on one side are slightly set back, in order to maximise the perimeter of each floor plate. This also allows for more natural light into the office space. Prince Plaza sits in a quite featured part of the site, in the sight-line of views down from the mountains to the sea. The terraces are conceived to reduce the impact of the building on the skyline and create more view points for the public.

TRUSSED FLOOR SUPPORTING BLOCK ABOVE GAP

VERTICAL DEAD LOAD (structure) H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D T R A N S F E R

POINT UNDER BIGGEST PRESSURE

TENSION COMPRESSION Powers, S. (2020) Prince Plaza [Online image] [Accessed on 11th April 2022] https://www.oma.com/projects/prince-plaza

POINT UNDER BIGGEST PRESSURE UNDER VERTICAL LOAD

U N D E R H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D

Ruault, P. (2020) Prince Plaza [Online image] [Accessed on 11th April 2022] https://www.oma.com/projects/prince-plaza

TRUSSED FLOOR SUPPORTING BLOCK ABOVE GAP

VERTICAL DEAD LOAD (structure) H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D T R A N S F E R

POINT UNDER BIGGEST PRESSURE

TENSION COMPRESSION Powers, S. (2020) Prince Plaza [Online image] [Accessed on 11th April 2022] https://www.oma.com/projects/prince-plaza

POINT UNDER BIGGEST PRESSURE UNDER VERTICAL LOAD

U N D E R H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D

Ruault, P. (2020) Prince Plaza [Online image] [Accessed on 11th April 2022] https://www.oma.com/projects/prince-plaza

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: STRUCTURE BREAKDOWN PRIMARY STRUCTURE

F O U N D AT I O N S : concrete raft

10m 10m VERTICAL DEAD LOAD (structure)

H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D T R A N S F E R

L I V E L O A D ( s n o w, p e o p l e , f u r n i t u r e ) L AT E R A L L O A D ( w i n d i n S / S W W d i r e c t i o n )

TENSION COMPRESSION

SOIL REACTION

a. Rings lateral stability

C O R E : single concrete core

The cabling is organised to form an hyperbolic paraboloid -> inspired to natural structures and rationalising the patterns of the curves

H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D : CLT slabs + concrete beams

b. Cross bracing + Gap

The bracing is only included on the floors above and below the suspension; the below diagram shows how it works under loads POINT UNDER BIGGEST PRESSURE

V E R T I C A L L O A D : steel columns + bracing

B R A C I N G TA K E S ON SOME OF THE VERTICAL LOAD REACHING CORE H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D TRANSFERRED TO CORE

POINT UNDER BIGGEST PRESSURE UNDER VERTICAL LOAD

U N D E R H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D

c. Raft foundation Although in urban context, the typical foundation used is screw pile, in this case raft foundation was chosen over it for the following reasons

L AT E R A L L O A D : steel rings + cabling bracing

ENVELOPE

- used where shallow foundation is necessary, but soil condition is poor - resists differential settlement - less earth excavation - creates extra footprint (usable basement) - loads are distributed over larger area (less pressure on single points) -> good when big loads involved

GLAZING + GLASS-FIBRE FABRIC

Lee, J. (2022) Deep cellular basement. [Online image] [Accessed on 13th April 2022] https://moodle. mmu.ac.uk/pluginfile.php/5377796/mod_resource/content/0/BA%20Tech3%20CMS%20Lecture01%20 220110a.pdf

- prone to edge erosion -> treatments can be taken to prevent - costs more since it requires more steel and concrete - skilled labour required

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: STRUCTURE BREAKDOWN PRIMARY STRUCTURE

F O U N D AT I O N S : concrete raft

10m 10m VERTICAL DEAD LOAD (structure)

H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D T R A N S F E R

L I V E L O A D ( s n o w, p e o p l e , f u r n i t u r e ) L AT E R A L L O A D ( w i n d i n S / S W W d i r e c t i o n )

TENSION COMPRESSION

SOIL REACTION

a. Rings lateral stability

C O R E : single concrete core

The cabling is organised to form an hyperbolic paraboloid -> inspired to natural structures and rationalising the patterns of the curves

H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D : CLT slabs + concrete beams

b. Cross bracing + Gap

The bracing is only included on the floors above and below the suspension; the below diagram shows how it works under loads POINT UNDER BIGGEST PRESSURE

V E R T I C A L L O A D : steel columns + bracing

B R A C I N G TA K E S ON SOME OF THE VERTICAL LOAD REACHING CORE H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D TRANSFERRED TO CORE

POINT UNDER BIGGEST PRESSURE UNDER VERTICAL LOAD

U N D E R H O R I Z O N TA L L O A D

c. Raft foundation Although in urban context, the typical foundation used is screw pile, in this case raft foundation was chosen over it for the following reasons

L AT E R A L L O A D : steel rings + cabling bracing

ENVELOPE

GLAZING + GLASS-FIBRE FABRIC

Lee, J. (2022) Deep cellular basement. [Online image] [Accessed on 13th April 2022] https://moodle. mmu.ac.uk/pluginfile.php/5377796/mod_resource/content/0/BA%20Tech3%20CMS%20Lecture01%20 220110a.pdf

- prone to edge erosion -> treatments can be taken to prevent - costs more since it requires more steel and concrete - skilled labour required

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: MATERIALITY RINGS + BRACING

CABLING: high-strength steel cabling

RINGS: white coated metal

FLOORING

LOAD: concrete beams

L O A D : C LT f l o o r s l a b s

FLOOR + CEILING FINISH: pine board

VERTICAL STRUCTURE

EXTRA BRACING: reinforced concrete

COLUMNS: corten steel

ENVELOPE

EXTERIOR FINISH: glass-fiber fabric with solar strips

All materials within the project were chosen to maximise its sustainability. Being a high rise, it was important to find materials that will give the tower a low embodied energy and that would also be able to be reused at the end of the building’s life-cycle. Another important factor was local availability, which is why only local woods were used, mainly pine.

GLAZING: reflective glass

I N S U L AT I O N : mineral wool

INTERIOR FINISH: whiteboard wood

F O U N D AT I O N S

COLUMNS: corten steel

L O A D : C LT f l o o r s l a b s

SHEAR WALLS: reinforced concrete

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: MATERIALITY RINGS + BRACING

CABLING: high-strength steel cabling

RINGS: white coated metal

FLOORING

LOAD: concrete beams

L O A D : C LT f l o o r s l a b s

FLOOR + CEILING FINISH: pine board

VERTICAL STRUCTURE

EXTRA BRACING: reinforced concrete

COLUMNS: corten steel

ENVELOPE

EXTERIOR FINISH: glass-fiber fabric with solar strips

GLAZING: reflective glass

I N S U L AT I O N : mineral wool

INTERIOR FINISH: whiteboard wood

F O U N D AT I O N S

COLUMNS: corten steel

L O A D : C LT f l o o r s l a b s

SHEAR WALLS: reinforced concrete

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGIES The following servicing strategy was drafted based on common layouts for high-rise buildings and the technology precedent. Services were arranged for maximum efficiency (material wise), minimum span and maximum possible grouping. However, these type of consideations would most likely be assisted by a specialist consultant.

W AT E R F I LT R AT E D A N D C O L L E C T E D O N R O O F T H R O U G H RETENTION BOXES, CAPILLARY AND STORAGE FLEECES A D J U S TA B L E M O T O R - P O W E R E D BLINDS TO AVOID SOLAR GLARE

a. Communications - one riser (core) for house and tenant communications - 3 plant rooms located at the top, m i d d l e a n d b o tt o m a n d p o w e r e d by air source heat pumps

SUMMER SUN HIGH-PERFORMANCE WINDOW FOR SOME N AT U R A L V E N T I L AT I O N

b. Mechanical Services - air conditioning systems - mechanical ventilation across floor - air source heat pumps energy supplies - solar energy roof panelling - triple plant room - boilers and thermostats - ITC systems - m a c h i n e r y f o r l i ft s - switch gear - water heaters - heat exchanger (air filtration and ventilation) - smoke management

c. Water Services

SOME LIGHT REFLECTED FROM N AT U R A L POLISHED FLOOR V E N T I L AT I O N S O N T O C E I L I N G ON GARDENS M I T I G AT E D B Y TREES

- sub-soil drainage - below the basement slab - sanitary plumbing - sanitary drainage - trade-waste plumbing - trade-waste drainage - potable cold water service (various speed pumps, water supply service risers) - non-potable water system makeup supply - potable hot water system -geothermal gas fired - fire hydrant system - fire sprinkler system

SSW WINDS DEFLECTED BY RINGS AND BRACING

DUE TO EXTREME HEIGHTS, MOST OF THE LIGHT IS REFLECTED BY G L A Z I N G , PA R T I S STILL REFRACTED IN R O O M A S PA S S I V E SOLAR GAIN

WALLS AND FLOORS ARE THERMAL MASSES -> ABSORB H E AT D U R I N G T H E D AY A N D R E L E A S E I T P R O G R E S S I V E LY

WINTER SUN

d. Electrical Services - power supply - b a c k- u p p o w e r - fuel tanks - probably located in the lowest basement plant room - energy converter (solar and geothermal) - lighting - floor electricity - smoke detectors supply

M E C H A N I C A L V E N T I L AT I O N I N S I D E BUILDING - FRESH WARM AIR RELEASED A N D S TA L E A I R R E M O V E D T H R O U G H H E AT EXCHANGER

S O L A R PA N E L S O N E P F T O F WALLS + THERMAL MASSING

W AT E R F I LT R AT E D A N D C O L L E C T E D O N R O O F T H R O U G H RETENTION BOXES, CAPILLARY AND STORAGE FLEECES A D J U S TA B L E M O T O R - P O W E R E D BLINDS TO AVOID SOLAR GLARE

a. Communications - one riser (core) for house and tenant communications - 3 plant rooms located at the top, m i d d l e a n d b o tt o m a n d p o w e r e d by air source heat pumps

SUMMER SUN HIGH-PERFORMANCE WINDOW FOR SOME N AT U R A L V E N T I L AT I O N

c. Water Services

SOME LIGHT REFLECTED FROM N AT U R A L POLISHED FLOOR V E N T I L AT I O N S O N T O C E I L I N G ON GARDENS M I T I G AT E D B Y TREES

SSW WINDS DEFLECTED BY RINGS AND BRACING

DUE TO EXTREME HEIGHTS, MOST OF THE LIGHT IS REFLECTED BY G L A Z I N G , PA R T I S STILL REFRACTED IN R O O M A S PA S S I V E SOLAR GAIN

WALLS AND FLOORS ARE THERMAL MASSES -> ABSORB H E AT D U R I N G T H E D AY A N D R E L E A S E I T P R O G R E S S I V E LY

WINTER SUN

M E C H A N I C A L V E N T I L AT I O N I N S I D E BUILDING - FRESH WARM AIR RELEASED A N D S TA L E A I R R E M O V E D T H R O U G H H E AT EXCHANGER

S O L A R PA N E L S O N E P F T O F WALLS + THERMAL MASSING

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: CLIMATE EMERGENCY RIBA SUSTAINABLE OUTCOMES: NET ZERO OPERATIONAL CARBON - The project prioritises the Fabric First principle, by maximising daylight and allowing for natural ventilation where possible - The project fine tunes internal environment with efficient mechanical systems - The building prioritises maximum use of on-site renewable through its air-source heat pump energy system and rain water recycling NET ZERO EMBODIED CARBON -The building prioritises ethical and responsible sourcing of all materials by using mainly local materials, such a pine wood and mineral wool insulation - The project prioritises low embodied carbon and healthy materials and minimises materials with high impacts through the use of the CLT flooring instead of concrete - The building considers modular off-site construction for the glazing panels, wall panels and CLT slab panels - The rings provide lateral stability to the building and prevent it front vertical deflection, giving it a long and robust life - The building is designed to be disassembled and recycled at the end of its life span: the CLT panels and glazing can be recycled, as well as the corten columns which are easier to recycle than most metals SUSTAINABLE WATER CYCLE - The building provides low flow fittings, waterless appliances where possible and leak detection - A rainwater reuse system is located on each garden volume for rainwater collection. Part of the water is filtered within the building and used within toilet and cooking facilities; another part is used for irrigation of the garden spaces - Grey-water and black-water are also filtered by the project, minimising the building’s external consumption SUSTAINABLE CONNECTIVITY AND TRANSPORT -The landscaping scheme of the project prioritises green transport by predominantly featuring tram, bike and pedestrian transportation - The treatment applied to the site provides high quality pedestrian links across the entirety of the site, which didn’t use to be there SUSTAINABLE LAND USE AND ECOLOGY -The building is located in what was originally a brownfield. The landscape scheme of the project leaves the site in better ‘regenerative’ ecological condition - The project carries out sustainable remediation of site pollution through the plantation of greenery and prominent featuring of tram and pedestrian transportation over car - The project retained the existing natural features of the site and enhanced them through the creation of a new range of green spaces (pocket gardens across site, green balconies and sky gardens) GOOD HEALTH AND WELL-BEING - The project is aimed at maximising workers comfort by providing them with appropriate space density, good indoor air quality, responsive local controls (blinds and windows where possible), good indoor lighting quality and spaces of adaptive thermal comfort - Spaces within the building are designed to be inclusive and universally accessible and multiple indoor and outdoor planted spaces are provided SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES AND SOCIAL VALUES -The project is centred around the cohesion of places of privacy and social interaction; many vibrant mixed use places are located within the design, which allow for inclusive community interaction - Secure places with overlooking views are provided both in the sky gardens and balcony spaces

INHABITAT (2008) Solar Harvesting Textiles Energize ‘Soft House’ [Online image] [Accessed on 10th December 2021] https://inhabitat.com/solar-harvesting-textiles-energize-soft-house/

V E G E TAT I O N + W AT E R C O L L E C T I O N

M AT E R I A L S

S O L A R PA N E L S FA B R I C

INHABITAT (2008) Solar Harvesting Textiles Energize ‘Soft House’ [Online image] [Accessed on 10th December 2021] https://inhabitat.com/solar-harvesting-textiles-energize-soft-house/

V E G E TAT I O N + W AT E R C O L L E C T I O N

M AT E R I A L S

S O L A R PA N E L S FA B R I C

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: POST-PANDEMIC OFFICES The pandemic has set a whole new series of boundaries to architecture, especially when it comes to work and working patterns. A key aspect of the brief was designing for a post-pandemic office space. It was necessary to research the ways in which the work environments have been changed by the pandemic and design the interior spaces of the building accordingly.

FLUID WORK EXPERIENCE: ON- SITE/REMOTE ENVIRONMENTS A new hybrid office encourages employees to take on a fluid approach to work. Fluid work experience allows employees to decide between working from home/off-site or having the ability to meet and connect physically with colleagues within a meeting room. Typically for a workplace to be well-designed, it must understand how the teams (its users) work and provide the correct solution to their specific needs. In terms of a tower, where the final user is not often the client, a more generic and adaptable solution has to be found, to work for all. Regardless of restrictions and protocols, it has become clear that from now on, physical and virtual work experience will continue to co-exist and will both be needed within office spaces.

POP-UP MEETING SPACE This new pandemic has showed us that flexibility is a big key for spaces nowadays. Having spaces that can adapt across situations is going to be the new ‘must-have’. Demountable wall systems would be a key infrastructure for such purpose, creating different varieties of spaces from intimate meeting rooms to wider event spaces. Mobility of furnitures will also allow for such flexibility to be achieved, as well as integrated and distributed electrical and audio-visual infrastructure for the open possibility of remote working. These easily reconfigured rooms would be provided with automated, digitally. activated and seamless technology, creating a touch-free experience for users.

SMALL GROUP TEAMING Encouraging a balance between individual work and team efforts will be a new key in post-pandemic offices. Both individual stations and pod team spaces within the floor encourage a balanced relationship between focus, fluid work-flow and team meet ups.

HOST BAR After a long period of isolation, people are looking to share some human connections. ‘Host Stands’ located at the entry of an office space would provide support for teams and shared events. The host stand would feature touch-free coffee and water dispensers, two widely spaced sinks promoting hand-washing and large counters and spaces to allow for comfortable distances.

Perkins&Will (2020) Offices after pandemic will “balance physical and virtual work” says Perkins and Will interior design director [Online image] [Accessed on 16th April 2022] https://www.dezeen.com/2020/06/26/perkins-and-will-meena-krenek-offices-postcoronavirus-pandemic/

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: INTERIOR SPATIAL QUALITIES a. Initial configuration: total glazing

NORMAL FLOORS BELOW THE MEZZANINE ( 8 m ) A R E S L I G H T LY O V E R - L I T AT T H E E D G E S - > S O M E B U I LT- U P W A L L N E E D E D

B U I L D I N G W I T H 1 0 0 % G L A Z I N G : W A L L R AT I O - > G L A Z I N G U - V A L U E U S E D = 0 . 6 9 W / m 2 K ( t r i p l e )

DAYLIGHTING OVER-LIT : 41%

WELL-LIT: 38%

UNDER-LIT: 21%

INTENSITY VALUE CHECK TARGET 50% BELOW CIBSE BENCHMARK : 113 kWh/m2/yr ACTUAL: 101 kWh/m2/yr

N O R M A L F L O O R S AT 4 m A R E R I G H T LY L I T W H E N F U L LY G L A Z E D - > A D D I N G B U I LT- U P W A L L WOULD MAKE THEM UNDER-LIT

ENERGY LOAD

M E Z Z A N I N E F L O O R S A R E W E L L- L I T W H E N F U L LY G L A Z E D - > I F W A L L B U I L D - U P I S T O BE APPLIED TO THE NORMAL FLOORS BELOW THEM (8m) iT SHOULD BE PLACED ON THE CANTILEVERED SIDE OF THE FLOOR

GARDEN FLOORS ARE MORE EXPOSED DUE TO GAP AND ARE THEREFORE OVER-LIT - TREES A N D V E G E TAT I O N W I L L P R O V I D E SOME SHADING TOGETHER WITH THE FABRIC ON THE RINGS

HEATING: 93943 kWh/yr COOLING: 409935 kWh/yr LIGHTING: 1135992 kWh/yr EQUIPMENT: 2839981 kWh/yr FANS: 818758 kWh/yr PUMPS: 232921 kWh/yr

The analysis of the whole building was done without considering any specific equipment values

This initial analysis of the building fully glazed was useful for assessing the litness of the floors according to their heights and location. Whilst the analysis produced some quite satisfactory results, there are still some aspects to be improved as annotated in the diagram above. Some of the floors will have to be left fully glazed in order to be well-lit (particularly those 4m high). Some other will require some partial wall built and some partial glazing.

b. Wall built-up iterations I T E R AT I O N 1

I T E R AT I O N 2

I T E R AT I O N 3

DAYLIGHTING

OVER-LIT : 37% WELL-LIT: 33% UNDER-LIT: 30%

OVER-LIT : 39% WELL-LIT: 39% UNDER-LIT: 22%

DAYLIGHTING OVER-LIT : 37% WELL-LIT: 40% UNDER-LIT: 23%

INTENSITY VALUE CHECK TARGET 50% BELOW CIBSE CHALLENGE: 113 kWh/m2/yr ACTUAL: 100 kWh/m2/yr

ENERGY LOAD

D AY L I G H T F A C T O R 0

100%

BUILDING WITH 80% GLAZING:WALL RATIO -> GLAZING U-VALUE USED= 0.69 W/m2K (triple) WALL U-VALUE USED= 0.15 W/ m2K For this iteration, the two top blocks were integrated with wall built-ups on the E and S elevation for the top block and on the E and N elevation for the block below it. For both the 4m floors were kept glazed.

BUILDING WITH 90% GLAZING:WALL RATIO -> GLAZING U-VALUE USED= 0.69 W/m2K (triple) WALL U-VALUE USED= 0.15 W/ m2K For this iteration, the two top blocks were again integrated with wall built-ups on the E and S elevation for the top block and on the E and N elevation for the block below it. The walls were divided into smaller portions, more evenly distributed. For both the 4m floors were kept glazed.

HEATING: 83419 kWh/yr COOLING: 394501 kWh/yr LIGHTING: 1135992 kWh/yr EQUIPMENT: 2839981 kWh/yr FANS: 814388 kWh/yr PUMPS: 228406 kWh/yr

BUILDING WITH 75% GLAZING:WALL RATIO -> GLAZING U-VALUE USED= 0.69 W/m2K (triple) WALL U-VALUE USED= 0.15 W/m2K For this iteration, wall built-up was added to the top three blocks of the building. It was evenly divided and distributed to follow a grid and located on the E and S elevation for the second block, on the E and N elevation for the third block and on all façades excluding the N on the top block. For all, the 4m floors were kept glazed.

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: INTERIOR SPATIAL QUALITIES a. Initial configuration: total glazing

NORMAL FLOORS BELOW THE MEZZANINE ( 8 m ) A R E S L I G H T LY O V E R - L I T AT T H E E D G E S - > S O M E B U I LT- U P W A L L N E E D E D

B U I L D I N G W I T H 1 0 0 % G L A Z I N G : W A L L R AT I O - > G L A Z I N G U - V A L U E U S E D = 0 . 6 9 W / m 2 K ( t r i p l e )

DAYLIGHTING OVER-LIT : 41%

WELL-LIT: 38%

UNDER-LIT: 21%

INTENSITY VALUE CHECK TARGET 50% BELOW CIBSE BENCHMARK : 113 kWh/m2/yr ACTUAL: 101 kWh/m2/yr

N O R M A L F L O O R S AT 4 m A R E R I G H T LY L I T W H E N F U L LY G L A Z E D - > A D D I N G B U I LT- U P W A L L WOULD MAKE THEM UNDER-LIT

ENERGY LOAD

GARDEN FLOORS ARE MORE EXPOSED DUE TO GAP AND ARE THEREFORE OVER-LIT - TREES A N D V E G E TAT I O N W I L L P R O V I D E SOME SHADING TOGETHER WITH THE FABRIC ON THE RINGS

HEATING: 93943 kWh/yr COOLING: 409935 kWh/yr LIGHTING: 1135992 kWh/yr EQUIPMENT: 2839981 kWh/yr FANS: 818758 kWh/yr PUMPS: 232921 kWh/yr

The analysis of the whole building was done without considering any specific equipment values

b. Wall built-up iterations I T E R AT I O N 1

I T E R AT I O N 2

I T E R AT I O N 3

DAYLIGHTING

OVER-LIT : 37% WELL-LIT: 33% UNDER-LIT: 30%

OVER-LIT : 39% WELL-LIT: 39% UNDER-LIT: 22%

DAYLIGHTING OVER-LIT : 37% WELL-LIT: 40% UNDER-LIT: 23%

INTENSITY VALUE CHECK TARGET 50% BELOW CIBSE CHALLENGE: 113 kWh/m2/yr ACTUAL: 100 kWh/m2/yr

ENERGY LOAD

D AY L I G H T F A C T O R 0

100%

HEATING: 83419 kWh/yr COOLING: 394501 kWh/yr LIGHTING: 1135992 kWh/yr EQUIPMENT: 2839981 kWh/yr FANS: 814388 kWh/yr PUMPS: 228406 kWh/yr

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: INTERIOR SPATIAL QUALITIES

USER ENGAGEMENT PLAN

After taking a more physical and environmental approach to the study of the interiors, it was time to take a more user.-centred approach. In order to do so, firstly it was necessary to conduct some research around ideal workplaces and their characteristics. The results of such investigations were summarised in the diagram in the right corner. Five main factors were identified: LIGHT, SOUND, COMFORT, WELL-BEING AND SPACE. The concept from such diagram were then applied onto the office floor plan. After a more general approach to the floor plan, further analysis of the interiors was made in the following interior perspective, looking at the single performance of each component. CORTEN COLUMNS BREAK THE VISUAL WHITE AND BROWN SCHEME OF THE INTERIOR

BALCONY BALUSTRADE KEPT IN TIMBER FOR COHERENCE WITH INTERIORS -> G L A S S PA N E L S P L A C E D IN BETWEEN FOR SAFETY REASONS

WHITE FINISHING ( S PA C E F E E L S BIGGER)

IDEAL WORKPLACE DIAGRAM T R E AT E D A S H P A V E M E N T - > P R O V I D E S ‘ N AT U R A L’ ELEMENT WITHIN OFFICE W H I C H D I R E C T LY L I N K S A N D I M P R O V E S W E L L- B E I N G

WOOD FINISH FOR BALCONY(RUSTIC F E E L I N G ) - > C O AT E D F O R E X P O S U R E TO EXTERIOR ENVIRONMENT

T H E WA L L PA N E L S A R E D E S I G N E D T O R E S E M B L E M O V I N G C U R TA I N S ( P R O V I D E S D Y N A M I S M T O E X T E R I O R A N D FEELING OF LIGHTNESS)

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: INTERIOR SPATIAL QUALITIES

USER ENGAGEMENT PLAN

BALCONY BALUSTRADE KEPT IN TIMBER FOR COHERENCE WITH INTERIORS -> G L A S S PA N E L S P L A C E D IN BETWEEN FOR SAFETY REASONS

WHITE FINISHING ( S PA C E F E E L S BIGGER)

IDEAL WORKPLACE DIAGRAM T R E AT E D A S H P A V E M E N T - > P R O V I D E S ‘ N AT U R A L’ ELEMENT WITHIN OFFICE W H I C H D I R E C T LY L I N K S A N D I M P R O V E S W E L L- B E I N G

WOOD FINISH FOR BALCONY(RUSTIC F E E L I N G ) - > C O AT E D F O R E X P O S U R E TO EXTERIOR ENVIRONMENT

T H E WA L L PA N E L S A R E D E S I G N E D T O R E S E M B L E M O V I N G C U R TA I N S ( P R O V I D E S D Y N A M I S M T O E X T E R I O R A N D FEELING OF LIGHTNESS)

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: SOCIAL + PROFESSIONAL CONTEXT

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: REGULATORY DOCUMENTATION APPROVED DOCUMENT M: 1. Interior doors are possible obstructions for disabled users, therefore the use of enclosed spaces was reduced by taking an open-floor plan approach. The only interior doors used are those for the core, toilets and exhibition spaces at the ground block. Even meeting rooms are kept flexible and open through the use of sound-insulated curtain dividers 2. Flooring is mostly CLT with no stepping or raised platforms; mezzanines can be reached by using the lifts. This makes the office spaces more disability-friendly 3. Wheelchair-accessible disabled toilets are provided on every floor, along with horizontal support rails 4. The path to the reception from the core or main entrance is direct and obvious with a clear manoeuvring space of more than 1400mm by 2200mm in front APPROVED DOCUMENT L: 5. Employees will have partial control over temperature and lighting settings within their workspace, through controllable desk lamps on each station. This will improve their comfort. Automatic motionactivated LED lights will also be used on the floor for visual comfort and energy saving.

6. Whilst the building relies mostly on mechanical ventilation, high-performance automated windows are

located on each floor; access to those is controlled by employees, but openings are restricted due to the height of the building

7. The rings swinging around the structure provide some shading across the day; their shading is also complemented by automated controllable blinds, aimed at reducing glare and solar gain especially during the warmest months.

APPROVED DOCUMENT K: 8. Hybrid glazed-wooden balustrade 1100mm high placed along the perimeter of the entire balcony to prevent falling

9. Utility staircases (for escape, access for maintenance, not daily purpose) are according to regulations.

The rises is 166mm (max. 190mm) and the going is 260mm (max. 320mm). Every 12 steps there is a 1m landing (max. of steps before landing = 16)

10. Easy access stairs connecting main office floor to mezzanine (for broad range of users on a day-today basis) are also designed with previous measurement and compliant to regulations.

APPROVED DOCUMENT L24 (WORKPLACE HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE, 1992): 11. For about 100 workers per work floor, separate bathrooms should follow the following stipulation: - for 26-50 women, there should be a minimum of 3 toilets and 3 washbasins - for 46-60 men, there should be a minimum of 3 toilets and 2 urinals

APPROVED DOCUMENT B: 12. Unobstructed protected escape routes 1800mm in width are provided on the ground floor for direct escape from the utility staircases ESCAPE ROUTES (SECTION 2): Maximum travel distance where travel is possible in more than one direction in an office is 45m (according to regulations). Max. travel distance proposal is about 40m. FIRE MAINS (SECTION 16): Fire mains are installed for the fire and rescue service to connect hoses to water. According to section 3, buildings with a storey more than 50m above fire service vehicles access level should be provided with wet fire mains, to be kept full of water and supplied by pumps from tanks in the building REFUGES (SECTION 3): Refuges should be a minimum of 900mmx1400mm and should not obstruct escape routes FIRE-FIGHTING SHAFTS (SECTION 17): A minimum of two fire-fighting shafts are provided, according to regulations, as the building has a floor area > 900m2 and a floor level > 18m above fire rescue level S P R I N K L E R SYS T E M : Sprinklers are located on all work-floors are building is >18m (following grid).

0 2

10 m31

6. Whilst the building relies mostly on mechanical ventilation, high-performance automated windows are

located on each floor; access to those is controlled by employees, but openings are restricted due to the height of the building

APPROVED DOCUMENT K: 8. Hybrid glazed-wooden balustrade 1100mm high placed along the perimeter of the entire balcony to prevent falling

9. Utility staircases (for escape, access for maintenance, not daily purpose) are according to regulations.

The rises is 166mm (max. 190mm) and the going is 260mm (max. 320mm). Every 12 steps there is a 1m landing (max. of steps before landing = 16)

10. Easy access stairs connecting main office floor to mezzanine (for broad range of users on a day-today basis) are also designed with previous measurement and compliant to regulations.

0 2

10 m31

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: CONSTRUCTION SEQUENCE + RIBA PLAN OF WORK

This first stage is centred around understanding the CLIENT REQUIREMENTS and defining the best strategies to achieve them. It involves SWOT analysis appraisal, evaluation of budget and risk factors with the aim of providing clients with a comprehensive spectrum of options. This step usually includes the assistance of a CLIENT TEAM, including client representatives, advisors, consultants and managers. City council will be contacted at this stage for approval of the proposal.

Once the PROJECT BRIEF is approved by the client and all stakeholders, surveying and feasibility studies began being conducted to assess whether the project can be accommodated on the chosen site. In the case of this project, reports and projects risks would be centred around the creation of a high rise in a brownfield in Manchester city centre. SPECIALISTS, ENGINEERS AND SURVEYORS will most likely be in charge of the Project risks assessment.

After all assessments and briefing are completed, CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT and ITERATIONS begin. The various iterations are submitted and presented to the clients and various stakeholders for feedback and approval. In the case of this project, the ring concept would have had to be discussed and approved both by the client and by the city council due to the proximity to listed buildings. The various iterations would have to be shown to clients as options.

Defined the main concept and tectonic of the building, SPATIAL COORDINATION and engineering needs to be implemented to rationalise the building into a build-able structure. This stage will include the preparation of regulation documents, consideration of RIBA sustainability outcomes and drafting of initial programmatic plans for the submission of the PLANNING APPLICATION. CONTRACTORS may begin being consulted at this stage.

At this stage, all design information required for manufacturing and construction are completed. TECHNICAL DRAWINGS AND GENERAL ARRANGEMENTS are developed for contractors to review before submission of the BUILDING REGULATIONS APPLICATION.

Once the building regulation application is approved, construction can begin. The steps below will be involved in construction. Most processes of construction will be conducted off-site for better accuracy and reduced time waste. Only the concrete elements will be cast on-site.

At this stage, where technical consultation is required, CIVIL, STRUCTURAL AND ENVELOPE ENGINEERS will be working closely with the architects, design team and client monitoring team.

CONSTRUCTION TEAMS AND CONTRACTORS will be the key players in this stage. Architects will occasionally visit for supervision. Contributions also depend on PROCUREMENT STRATEGY.

1. The ground is dug up to bedrock level to lay down the basement foundations; holders are placed and in-situ concrete is poured for the raft 2. The ground floor landscape slab is laid down and the ground layer of the core is cast on site; the metal ground columns are placed and bolted onto the ground floor 3. Pre-made framing for the floor beams are set in place and is-situ concrete is pumped within them for the creation of the beams 4. The beams framing is removed and pre-fabricated CLT floor panels are installed in between the beams; CLT panels are pre-fabricated for better accuracy and reduced waste of material and time 5. The next core level is cast out of in-situ concrete directly in position; the metal columns are bolted to the floor slab and secured

Construction is completed and the building is HANDED OVER TO THE CLIENT. Project team will still be required for a project performance session. CONSTRUCTION TEAMS AND CONTRACTORS close the building contract, but will have to still rectify any remaining defects. AFTER-CARE OF THE BUILDING is initiated.

Once At this point, the building is operational, at full use and maintained efficiently. POST OCCUPANCY EVALUATION may be conducted regularly by the design team to determine the performance of the building. ASSET MANAGEMENT AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT TEAMS will support the users in case of any problems or needs. At the end of the life cycle of the building’s lifespan, most of the materials such as concrete, corten and CLT will be recycled.

6. The basic structural framework (slabs+columns) of the first block is constructed 7. The cladding of the first block is placed using scaffolding; firstly the edges are flushed and the glazing fixings and mullions are welded to it. The pre-made off-site glazing unit is pushed into the outer fixing flange hard against the framing; once the glazing unit is fixed, wide flashing tape is used to create the glazing air seal 8. The pre-fabricated rings pieces and cabling are assembled on site and set onto the floor slabs. The cabling is fixed and the rings are ensured in a secured and stable position 9. Once the first block is finished, the building is proceeded to be assembled block by block

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - RESOLVING: CONSTRUCTION SEQUENCE + RIBA PLAN OF WORK

At this stage, where technical consultation is required, CIVIL, STRUCTURAL AND ENVELOPE ENGINEERS will be working closely with the architects, design team and client monitoring team.

CONSTRUCTION TEAMS AND CONTRACTORS will be the key players in this stage. Architects will occasionally visit for supervision. Contributions also depend on PROCUREMENT STRATEGY.

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: SITE MASTER-PLAN 1 Tower 2 Ice skating rink 3 Pool fountain 4 Heeled landscape 5 Open park for dog-walking 6 ‘Embrace the shadows’ pavilion 7 Tram Stop 8 Car park

6 5

50 m

6 5

50 m

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: GROUND FLOOR PLAN 1 Main Entrance 2 Reception 3 Protected fire route 4 Cafè entrance 5 Cafè 6 Outside sitting space 7 Trash room 8 Gift shop museum

G R E AT

ANCOA

T S S T. 4 8 5

POLLARD ST.

0 2

10 m

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: GROUND FLOOR PLAN 1 Main Entrance 2 Reception 3 Protected fire route 4 Cafè entrance 5 Cafè 6 Outside sitting space 7 Trash room 8 Gift shop museum

G R E AT

ANCOA

T S S T. 4 8 5

POLLARD ST.

0 2

10 m

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: TYPICAL OFFICE FLOOR PLAN - 12TH FLOOR

G R E AT ANCOA T S S T. 0 2

POLLARD ST.

10 m 35

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: TYPICAL OFFICE FLOOR PLAN - 12TH FLOOR

G R E AT ANCOA T S S T. 0 2

POLLARD ST.

10 m 35

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: TYPICAL MEZZANINE OFFICE FLOOR PLAN - 13TH FLOOR

G R E AT ANCOA T S S T. POLLARD ST.

0 2

10 m

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: TYPICAL MEZZANINE OFFICE FLOOR PLAN - 13TH FLOOR

G R E AT ANCOA T S S T. POLLARD ST.

0 2

10 m

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: TYPICAL SKY GARDEN FLOOR PLAN - 24TH FLOOR

G R E AT ANCOA T S S T. 0 2

POLLARD ST.

10 m 37

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: TYPICAL SKY GARDEN FLOOR PLAN - 24TH FLOOR

G R E AT ANCOA T S S T. 0 2

POLLARD ST.

10 m 37

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: SECTION AA A

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

20 m

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

A PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: SECTION AA A

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

20 m

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

A PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: SECTION BB

20 m

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: SECTION BB

20 m

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: ELEVATIONS

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

20 m

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

EAST ELEVATION PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

SOUTH ELEVATION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: ELEVATIONS

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

20 m

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

EAST ELEVATION PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

SOUTH ELEVATION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: 1:20 SECTION

0.5

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

1 2

1. BALCONY FLOOR

2. EXTERIOR WALL

3. TYPICAL FLOOR

- insulated metal cap for cold-bridging reduction - 70x20mm treated plywood boards -30mm stainless steel grills - 2 5 0 m m s t e e l b e a m s ( L- s h a p e d a t e d g e s a n d I-shaped in the middle) -100mm metal beam for clad support fixed to internal primary structure through bolting -30mm stainless steel grills

-10mm PTFE finish with solar strips -30mm mineral wool insulation -rubber sheet for sealing -120mm air gap at 0°C supported by 100x100mm h o r i z o n t a l w o o d e n b a tt e n s , 1 0 0 x 1 0 0 m m v e r t i c a l w o o d e n b a tt e n s a n d 2 0 x 1 0 0 m m h o r i z o n t a l w o o d e n b a tt e n s -30mm mineral wool insulation -rubber sheet for sealing -20mm white board finish

-30mm pine board finish - s t e e l t r a n s o m w i t h 5 7. 6 m m c e l l u l o s e i n s u l a t i o n -70mm impact-sound cellulose insulation -extruded aluminium horizontal mullion - 24 0 m m c r o s s - l a m i n a t e d t i m b e r i n b e t w e e n -2 6mm laminated safety glass 250x275mm concrete beams -16mm cavity -polythene separating layer -6mm toughened safety glass -130mm access ceiling supported by 130x30mm -2 6mm laminated safety glass concrete service beams U-VALUE CALCULATIONS 0.12 -20mm pine board finish 0.010 0.2 Km /W R (PTFE fabric) = = R = 0.04 Km /W R (air at 0°C) = = 5 Km /W

4. GLAZING

Rsi= 0.13 Km2/W

0.05 0.06 1.714 Km2/W R2 (cellulose insulation)= = 0.035 1

0.024 0.020 0.13 Km2/W R4 (white board)= = 0.15 3

1 = 1 = 0.139 Km2/W (Passivhaus max. 0.15) 0.04 + 0.13 + 0.2 + 1.714 + 5 + 0.13 7.214

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: 1:20 SECTION

0.5

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

1 2

1. BALCONY FLOOR

2. EXTERIOR WALL

3. TYPICAL FLOOR

4. GLAZING

Rsi= 0.13 Km2/W

0.05 0.06 1.714 Km2/W R2 (cellulose insulation)= = 0.035 1

0.024 0.020 0.13 Km2/W R4 (white board)= = 0.15 3

1 = 1 = 0.139 Km2/W (Passivhaus max. 0.15) 0.04 + 0.13 + 0.2 + 1.714 + 5 + 0.13 7.214

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: 1:5 TACTILE DETAIL: THE MEZZANINE STAIRS PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

SEAM Centre, Seoul (2016), URBANSOCIETY

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

HANDRAIL DETAIL Lee, N. (2016) SEAM Centre [Online image] [Accessed on 5th May 2022] https://www.archdaily.com/785113/seam-center-urbansociety/5705c8b8e58ece99fc0000ac-seam-center-urbansociety-photo

11 House, Brasilia (2017), CODA ARQUITETOS

STEP DETAIL

França, J. (2017) 11 House [Online image] [Accessed on 5th May 2022] https://www.archdaily.com/919845/lago-norte-house-coda-arquitetos/5d137204284dd145d900007d-lago-norte-house-coda-arquitetos-photo

This 1.5 detail focuses on the stairs located on the office floors and leading to the mezzanine levels. As these are not utility stairs, there was more freedom in the way they could be designed and located within the floor plan. As simple curtain cladding system was fixed perimeteral to the stairs, creating a ‘see through-hide’ effect. The previous precedents inspired the designing of the stairs.

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: 1:5 TACTILE DETAIL: THE MEZZANINE STAIRS PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

SEAM Centre, Seoul (2016), URBANSOCIETY

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

HANDRAIL DETAIL Lee, N. (2016) SEAM Centre [Online image] [Accessed on 5th May 2022] https://www.archdaily.com/785113/seam-center-urbansociety/5705c8b8e58ece99fc0000ac-seam-center-urbansociety-photo

11 House, Brasilia (2017), CODA ARQUITETOS

STEP DETAIL

França, J. (2017) 11 House [Online image] [Accessed on 5th May 2022] https://www.archdaily.com/919845/lago-norte-house-coda-arquitetos/5d137204284dd145d900007d-lago-norte-house-coda-arquitetos-photo

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: ZOOMING TO THE HUMAN SCALE

THE ARRIVAL AND ENTRANCE

SKY GARDEN

INSIDE THE OFFICES

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: ZOOMING TO THE HUMAN SCALE

THE ARRIVAL AND ENTRANCE

SKY GARDEN

INSIDE THE OFFICES

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: FAR VIEW

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: AERIAL VIEW

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: CLOSE-UP VIEW

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: 3.2 REFLECTION

- POSITION: the initial position for this project was creating a pleasant working space both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable and sustainable. Whilst at the beginning, the mode of producing such space was centred around playing with sensory experience, upon further reflection and implementation of notions from the Humanities course, it became clear that such approach would not put the users at the centre. Even though creating different sensorial experiences across the tower would have been quite spectacular for users to witness, it was important to remember that the brief for the tower was a post-covid office space. Therefore a work suited space had to be conceived. This lead to an adjustment of the position.

- PROPOSAL: the proposal went through quite a series of iterations. Those were especially centred around the shape morphologies and structural performance of the building. With the influence of the Technologies course, the tower went from a quite vague scheme into a more refined and structurally credible building. It could definitely be further refined with the help of a full design team, consultants and structural engineers.

- ATELIER: the atelier position and ideals can be seen directly in the intentions of the iterations and the way the building was shaped. As Making, a lot of emphasis was placed around the iteration through the doing, both of physical and digital models. Modelling was a big tool in the development of the tower and, while at the beginning most modelling took place physically, as the project was refined there was a shift from analogue to digital.

- KNOWLEDGE ACQUIRED FROM THE PROJECT: this project was a great opportunity for me to learn and push my boundaries as a designer. The atelier and tutors were always keen on pushing the project further, constantly exploring materiality and shaping and defying physical and creational boundaries. Freedom of creativity was a big driver in Making and it lead me to the creation of an unconventional tower.

- NEXT STEPS: the way of thinking and exploring concepts in all of their shapes and gradients is something I will carry with me in my further project. The idea of inquisitive design, constant experimentation and iterating is something I learnt to appreciate within this project and that improved my way of designing and conceiving architecture.

ANCOATS-360° PROJECT - FINAL OUTPUTS: 3.2 REFLECTION