Thesis Project WIP by Ben Lillywhite

Improving the Lives of those who Serve Design Studio 3, MArch 2 Abstract Machines Ben Lillywhite C7138009 16th May 2016

Contents

Content Chapter Introduction Proposition Conflicts The Injured Future Charities British Army Precedence - Spatial Precedence - Function Brief Chapter Conclusion

Contents

Page 5 6-7 8-9 10 - 13 14 - 15 16 - 19 20 - 21 22 - 27 28 - 29 30 - 31 33

Site Chapter Introduction Potential Sites Site Regional History Demographic Energy Analysis Context Access Terrain Policies Site Environmental Analysis Precedence - Environmental Principles Chapter Conclusion

Page 35 36 - 37 38 - 39 40 - 41 42 - 43 44 - 45 46 47 48 - 49 50 - 51 52 - 53 54 - 57 58 - 59 60 - 63 65

Concept

Technologies

67 Chapter Introduction Brief 68 - 69 70 - 71 Space Sizes 72 Relationships 73 Road to Recovery 74 - 75 Ergonomic Considerations Environmental Considerations 76 - 77 78 - 79 Key Rooms 80 - 81 Concept 82 - 83 Design Strategy 84 - 85 Massing 86 - 89 Courtyards & Circulation 90 - 91 Principles 92 - 95 Precedence - Form 96 - 103 Materiality 104 - 105 Comparisons 107 Chapter Conclusion

Chapter Introduction Origami Studies Prosthetic Technologies Military Materiality Origami Studies HESCO Barrier Materiality HESCO Technology Concept HESCO Concept Development Chapter Conclusion

Experience 109 110 - 115 116 - 117 118 - 119 120 - 125 126 - 127 128 - 129 130 - 135 136 - 147 149

Chapter Introduction Activities Precedence - Sports Complex Sports Complex Principles Ramp Concept Precedence - Accommodation Accommodation Principles Accommodation Programme Courtyard Concept Support Hub Principles Museum Principles Breakout Space Principles Landscaping Principles Chapter Conclusion

Design Development 151 152 - 153 154 - 155 156 - 157 158 - 165 166 - 167 168 - 169 170 - 171 172 - 175 176 - 177 178 - 179 180 - 181 18 - 183 185

Chapter Introduction Building Description Building Orientation Building Divisions Building Configurations Building Proposals Module Development Canopy Concept Proposal Overview Proposed Plan Proposed Elevations Proposed Views Chapter Conclusion

187 188 - 189 190 - 191 192 - 193 194 - 197 198 - 203 204 - 207 208 - 217 218 - 219 220 221 222 - 223 225

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We live in uncertain times, war is brutal and those who serve risk all on our behalf; we owe them an enormous debt. However, the counter to the horrors and despair of war is seen in the shining good that we have seen delivered by Help for Heroes extraordinary staff, volunteers and supporters... Together we have and will continue to rebuild lives.â&#x20AC;? Bryn Parry, Founder of Help for Heroes Charity

Context Chapter Introduction

Many of us will never understand the horrors that service personnel witness, with even fewer of us suffering the life changing injuries inflicted on those who protect us. The aim of this chapter is to help evaluate what injured soldiers require in a rehabilitation centre; investigate potential sites that best meet the parameters discussed and consider what is already available to the injured service personnel. With the number of wars increasing and modern day medical advances (ironically medicine often advances due to military conflicts), greater numbers of soldiers are surviving injuries, which until recently would have likely killed them. Because of this, more and more people are living the remainder of their lives as amputees, or with severe mental health issues, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Due to this large increase in injured soldier numbers, and with the issue coming more into the public domain, a number of charities have been established to help where they can. One of the main charities is Help for Heroes, that helps run four rehabilitation centres around the country. The need for these rehabilitation centres is ever growing. The British Army is soon to undertake a massive restructuring programme, with a larger proportion becoming reservists. Therefore, there is the potential that larger numbers of soldiers will have to integrate back into public society quicker than in previous years, as they will have full time careers to return to. In concluding this chapter, the historical context of the scheme is to be understood and the requirements of the proposed scheme will be developing.

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Proposition

Studio Philosophy

Scheme

Throughout history, the world has been plagued by conflicts and wars taking millions of lives and injuring infinitely more. The aim of this project is to recognise these brave soldiers and victims of war and assist in rehabilitating the injured; giving them a sense of being and celebrating their success.

The project will be explored through the Abstract Machines studio; a design studio within Leeds Beckett Masters of Architecture course; focusing on the use of computational analysis and processes to further architectural design. By utilising modern computational technology, the studio believes that increasingly complex designs can be derived based on a number of parameters.

The project will begin by looking at the reasoning behind the need for a rehabilitation centre within the UK. Research will be conducted into recent and current conflicts involving the British Forces and how many injuries these wars inflicted. Investigations will then be conducted into how these injured service personnel are rehabilitated when they return to British shores; and who offers this treatment. Enquiries will be made into charities that help support these soldiers and how they can improve their lifestyle if they are discharged from the Forces. Finally, I will inspect the changes being made to the Army, with significant plans being made to optimise the organisation.

Injured service personnel have a chequered history and were often the forgotten members of the Armed Forces. Returning soldiers were at the forefront of victory parades basking in the glory of their countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s triumph. We remember those who were taken too early, with the price of success coming at too high a cost for millions of families. After the Falklands War victory, the wounded soldiers attended the celebrations in Civilian clothing, cast aside and unconsidered following their extraordinary efforts.

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Analyse > model > test > analyse > model is the mantra of the studio and will be a key influence throughout the project. By utilising computational analysis, a number of parameters will be able to influence the design of the project to best serve itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s occupants.

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Following this I will investigate the site and its environmental / historical conditions. Utilising this information can help in the future development of the scheme to ensure that a sustainable and environmentally friendly project can be created. Investigations will then take place into the existing rehabilitation centres and modern day structures that the soldiers will be familiar with. This research will help to inform the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Improving the health of those who Serve

programme and form and will assist in the design development. Furthermore, using the environmental research conducted into preferable comfortable internal conditions, the buildings form can be orientated to utilise the surrounding environment to its benefit. As described in the Studio Philosophy description, a series of models and design iterations will be used in order to test and evaluate design decisions to produce a beautiful building, which both meets the needs of its occupants as well as enhancing its surrounding context. At the end of this process, I hope to have achieved my goals in order to create a building that is truly worthy of its cause.

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Conflicts

Locations

Statistics

Iraq: 179 Killed 3820 Injured

Falklands: 777 Killed 255 Injured

Afghanistan: 445 Killed 2188 Injured

NI - 763 / 47,541

Balkans - 72 Gulf War - 47

British Army Deployments Past Conflicts Present Conflicts

Over the past 3 decades, Britain has been involved in a significant number of conflicts, from close to home in Northern Ireland; to Commonwealth regions in the Falklands. On the map shown above, it is possible to see all of the British oversea deployments; although British forces can be found in many other countries on allies bases. Portrayed opposite is time line of the past conflicts depicted above on the map. As you can see, British influence is visible worldwide. The forces are still required in present times, with tensions rising in areas such as Syria and the Ukraine, the possibility of futures wars remain a high possibility.

1 9 8 0

1 9 9 0

2 0 0 0

2 0 1 0

2 0 1 5

Ministry of Defence data states that between 1995 and 2015, 32,036 men and women were Medically Discharged from the Armed Forces. The numbers of casualties and fatalities caused by the conflicts are staggering. By far The Troubles in Northern Ireland, spanning nearly three decades caused the highest devastation. Whilst the figures shown above depict physical injuries, the number of mental illnesses and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder cases are exponentially higher.

Northern Ireland Falklands Gulf Balkans

The majority of these injuries would have healed with time, such as broken bones and cut wounds. However, a large proportion would have suffered dramatic life style altering injuries - such as amputated limbs and paralysis.

Sierra Leone Afghanistan Iraq

If you compare these injuries to the map opposite, it is possible to see that these injuries occur all over the globe in war time environments. The importance of getting these injured personnel to a safe environment to aid their recovery and rehabilitation is paramount. The following pages look at the potential futures for the injured, contrasting this to how theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been treated in the past. Page 8

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The Injured

British Army

History

Historically, injured service personnel were treated in NHS institutions, with many people criticising the military for not doing enough for their injured compatriots. Being treated alongside the public was very different for the forces members, who are used to a strict and regimented lifestyle, something not associated with public hospitals. Dedicated facilities for the military become a must. These facilities have became more prevalent in recent years with a small number of rehabilitation centres being developed across the country. However, they are often in locations and buildings originally intended for a different use.

Military Museums

Researching the images and statistics on the previous pages has been extremely hard hitting. It is astounding to think of the effort these brave soldiers have given for their countries and the various causes. One can’t imagine the things they must have seen, and this is why I believe it is paramount that we as a nation do all we can to assist their futures.

In recent years, a number of charities have started, with their principle aim being to assist the injured. Charities such as Help for Heroes and The Royal British Legion, both to be discussed in subsequent pages, have helped raise the awareness of the injured service people and celebrate their efforts. This is in contrast to historical treatment. Following the Falklands victory, the injured were asked to dress in civilian clothing, during the victory parade, robbed of the opportunity to be celebrated and thanked for their service and contributions. Page 10

There are round 140 military museums located around the UK, as varied as the regiments they represent. However, not one of them is specifically for injured service personnel and their contributions to the cause. The largest museum in the country is the National Army Museum, London. Their main aim is to be the leading authority on the history of the British Army. The closest museum dedicated to injured service personnel, is the Science Museum with a section dedicated to Medicine in the War Zone.

National Army Museum: “The British Army played a decisive role in the creation of the nation state of Great Britain, as we recognise it today. Our Army is not called the Royal Army (unlike the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force) because, after a historic struggle between Parliament and monarchy, the British Army has always been answerable to Parliament and the British people.”

Improving the health of those who Serve

I believe that the injured should be more associated with the military, than with the medicine aspect. The brave soldiers that have sacrificed their bodies for our protection, should be celebrated in the museum, with their stories being told so that the public can appreciate their efforts. Exhibitions could be produced so that the public can witness the settings and scenario’s regarding how the injuries were caused.

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The Injured

Opportunities

Homelessness

In the UK, around 24,000 British soldiers leave the army every year. It is feared that as many as 1,100 ex-service personnel may be homeless in London, whilst nearly 3%, almost 2,500 prisoners, are ex-military. The map opposite highlight the locations of a Transition staff officer within the regional brigades, to assist in the transition from Soldier to civilian. In a five year period leading up to 2013/2014, 6, 391 military service personnel were medically discharged from the British Army. Of these, 4,214 were under the age of 30. 65% of those medically discharged from the army arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t 30 yet, with the rest of their working lives ahead of them. Many of these veterans will have found new employment; assisted by several charities which help promote employers that hire injured service personnel. However, finding this work can be extremely difficult, as the transition from soldier to civilian can take many months, with little support from the forces.

6% Homeless

The Armed Forces Home Ownership Scheme, will loan ex-Armed Forces Personnel between 15% and 50% of the cost of the home they want to buy. However, there are a number of criteria which applicants must meet to qualify for this scheme, for example they must have served for at least four years in the Armed Forces before applying, they must have enough savings to cover the deposit for the house and they must have a good credit history. These criteria may prove particularly difficult to meet for individuals who are at risk of homelessness, particularly early Service leavers who may have chaotic lifestyles and support needs.

There are several established charities assisting ex soldiers in finding new employment, but as the statistics show, more is required. By having a dedicated venue where courses can be held and where soldiers know to go to, can only be beneficial. With such a venue having a close association with a rehabilitation centre, the injured will be able to learn new skills and possible employment roles as they physically recover. Page 12

6% Service Personnel

Any soldier leaving the army may struggle to adapt to civilian life, after such a regimented and strict previous lifestyle. Many have suffered life changing events (bereavement or financial crisis) or a breakdown in relationship. Furthermore, some simply struggle with civilian work. These factors contribute to a significant number becoming homeless, an outcome unfair on so many, even more so for those who have protected the country they served. When an injured soldier has been rehabilitated, it may not be possible for them to be able to rejoin the forces and therefore have to find a new civilian lifestyle. This can often be a difficult time for them personally, and as noted above, can lead to homelessness.

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Future

Army 2020

2010 Army

101, 840 Regulars 24, 110 Reservists

2020 Army

Key Adaptable Force Reaction Force Force Troops Command

82, 000 Regulars 30, 000 Reservists

The future army of 2020 is going to see significant structural changes. For the first time, regular soldiers and reservists are going to be fully integrated, giving an overall size of 112, 000. No longer will the reservists be used only in extreme circumstances, they will be routinely called upon to assist in stabilisation operations and overseas deployments.

The Reaction Force will provide a force that will undertake short notice contingency tasks and provide the Armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conventional deterrence for Defence. It will be trained and equipped to undertake the full spectrum of intervention tasks and will provide the initial basis for any future lengthy operation.

The Adaptable Force will be used for a wide range of tasks, including providing headquarters and units for lengthy operations, standing commitments (e.g. Cyprus and the Falkland Islands), overseas Defence Engagement (working with partner nations) and UK civil engagement.

The army is going to be broken down into three types of forces: Reaction, Adaptable and Force Troops. Locations for these troops are shown on the map opposite, with a short description shown overleaf. With the British Armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s withdrawal from Germany, the army will now be predominantly UK based for the first time in generations. With such a large number of soldiers stationed within the UK, patients in Personnel Recovery Centres are poised to rise.

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HQ HQ

Supporting the Reaction Force and Adaptable Force will be specialist Force Troops, which will provide a wide range of capabilities from a centralised pool of Regular and Reserve resources, such as artillery, logistics, military intelligence and signals.

London District

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Charities

Overview

Help for Heroes

Help for Heroes began in 2007 as a result of legal restrictions. A couple visited Headley Court, the army’s rehabilitation centre, which was in urgent need of a new swimming pool. However, the money could not be raised through existing Military charities, therefore Help for Heroes was born.

Key Help for Heroes British Army

In recent years there has been a substantial increase in awareness regarding injured service personnel. Charities such as Help for Heroes have begun; the Royal British Legion has grown in stature; and Prince Harry began the Invictus games.

Royal British Legion

The charity provides sports recovery, psychological support, career recovery and general welfare support through recovery centres, grants and a network of charity partners and organisations.

Over the next few pages I will investigate what these charities do and how they help wounded soldiers. The diagram to the right helps locate the recovery centres found around the country by the different organisations. As you can see, there is only one solitary centre run by the British Army themselves. This is because the army utilise the NHS hospitals’ knowledge and facilities to help their employees.

Help for Heroes help to run four recovery centres across the country, with the largest being Tedworth House. Tedworth House is on the edge of the Salisbury Plains, a key training ground for the army so an obvious place for a recovery centre. The centre plays host to world class facilities e.g. a specialist sports centre for adaptive sporting facilities. The centre includes: Skiplex, SwimEx, strength & conditioning gym, steam room, sauna and sports hall with a sprung floor. Furthermore, the house provides accommodation for 56 service personnel and capacity for a further 30 day attendees.

The vast majority of rehabilitation centres shown on this page are not built specifically for soldiers’ rehabilitation. They are all former stately homes or alike, that have been amended to suit the needs of the medical staff. The aim of my project is to understand what the soldiers need to recover, learning this from these existing facilities, and design a bespoke building to help these brave soldiers recover.

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The other centres Help for Heroes run are Phoenix House, Catterick Garrison; Chavasse VC House, Colchester and the Naval Service Recovery Centre, Plymouth.

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Charities

Invictus Games

Royal British Legion

The Royal British Legion are synonymous with the Poppy appeal in the UK. However they offer so much more. The main priority of the charity is to offer support to any exservice personnel or their families. The charity was born in the wake of WW I with their main aim to support those who had suffered as a result of service in the Armed Forces during the war. The charity recognise that injuries don’t only affect the soldiers, they have an affect on the families and friends close around them too.

Prince Harry founded the Invictus Games after seeing the Warrior Games in the USA in 2013. London was chosen to host the inaugural Games in 2014 and it was considered to be a huge success. The Invictus Game provides a sporting platform for injured service personnel from armies around the world; participating in a range of sports representing their country. The Games use the power of sport to help inspire the injured, aid in their recovery, support the rehabilitation process and generate respect for their efforts. The Invictus Games are a great precedence as they help to highlight to injured service personnel what is achievable throughout their rehabilitation. They also bring the injured into the public eye, something that the project aims to do.

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The Royal British Legion manage the Battle Back Centre, Lilleshall on behalf of the British Army. The centre provides activities including climbing, water sports, caving, wheelchair basketball, clay shooting and archery. Their principle aim is to build camaraderie with others going through similar challenges. The centre also provides accommodation for 24 people, including 16 fully accessible for wheelchair users. “These Games have shone a spotlight on the ‘unconquerable’ character of service men and women and their families and their ‘Invictus’ spirit. These Games have been about seeing guys sprinting for the finish line and then turning round to clap the last man in. They have been about teammates choosing to cross the line together, not wanting to come second, but not wanting the other guys to either. These Games have shown the very best of the human spirit.” Prince Harry Improving the health of those who Serve

The Legion also helps to run Edinburgh House, Edinburgh. Whilst the centre doesn’t offer as many activities as other centres across the country, Edinburgh house offers accommodation for 12 people and a further 15 day attendee spaces. The centre was created as the “pathfinder” centre by the army and hosts a computer suite, classrooms and recreational areas.

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British Army

Personnel Recovery Centres

Key Help for Heroes British Army Royal British Legion

As described in previous pages, the British Army has access to several Personnel Recovery Centres (PRC), predominantly funded by Help for Heroes and the Royal British Legion. The primary aim of these centres is to provide recovery courses and programmes for all wounded, injured and sick soldiers.

The locations of the recovery centres were chosen to be close to areas with a high military population, such as Tidworth, Catterick, Colchester, and Plymouth, so that serving personnel would be able to stay at home while receiving treatment. A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The requirement for the Army Recovery Capability was identified in response to a growing need to look after our people differently. The need for this capability, including personnel recovery centres, was established by the MoD and was developed at some speed in partnership with H4H (Help for Heroes) and the Royal British Legion.â&#x20AC;?

The centres offer residential accommodation and day time attendance places, for a range of activities. Set within a military environment, available courses not only help in the physical and mental recovery of soldiers, they also assist in welfare, educational and resettlement support. The centres are not considered a hospital, therefore attendees must be able to self administer any necessary medication. Furthermore, the soldiers must be independently mobile in order to stay. The largest recovery centre at Tedworth House, Tidworth, has 50 bedrooms and four family suites, while Phoenix House in Catterick has 46 bedrooms and four family suites.

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Researching these centres has identified several key factors to a successful Personnel Recovery Centre. Primarily, there must be a substantial amount of land in order to facilitate a large array of activities. Furthermore, the open spaces provide a tranquil setting to assist in a patientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rehabilitation. There is also the requirement for teaching spaces and office accommodation. A combination of short and long term guests facilitates the requirement for bedrooms. Finally, meeting and large open spaces for events would be advantageous. Improving the health of those who Serve

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Precedence

Phoenix House

Phoenix House is a PRC located in Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, managed and financed by Help for Heroes. The centre was opened in October 2011 at a cost of £12 million (funded by Help for Heroes), specifically designed to promote recovery and well being. The British Army provide the staff to care and command the residential soldiers; whilst operational costs of £2.2m (£1.35m by Help for Heroes, £850k by British Royal Legion) are required annually, with a large proportion of this being spent on bills. Due to these centres being managed by charities, it is obvious that my project needs to be as energy efficient as possible, minimising the costs spent on fuels. Therefore if it is possible to use renewable energy sources and design the build to maximise natural sources, the remaining monies can be spent on the centre itself.

Whilst there are a significant number of army barracks located within the North of England, Phoenix House is the first and so far only northern PRC. Catterick Garrison is Europe’s largest garrison, therefore Phoenix House is in a prime location to assist in a soldier’s recovery programme.

The centre plays host to 46 single en-suite bedrooms and four family suites. Also situated within Phoenix House are arts and craft room as well as training, presentation and IT suites. A gym with specialist equipment, a café and social areas also form part of the new Centre; spatial diagrams are provided over following pages.

I had the privilege to visit the centre and it was a very beneficial visit. One of the most important things I learnt was that the centres are not a residential venture. Whilst there are 50 bedrooms in total, these are for soldiers and their families who are coming for a course, on the understanding that they then return to their homes. The charity aims to help soldiers get back their independence - by offering them a home, this value could be lost.

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Phoenix House makes excellent use of it’s idyllic location. Set within the Yorkshire Dales, many of the recovery courses take place in the Dales, helping to reconnect the soldiers with their training habitats. It is obvious from the research so far that providing plenty of open space not only provides soldiers a tranquil environment in which to recover, but excellent opportunities for outdoor activities and an area away from the general public helping the residents to feel safe.

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Precedence

Social Space

Spatial

COO Office

Precedence

Social Space

Spatial

Centre OC’s Office Staff Office

Dining Space Breakout Space

Reception

Servery

Breakout Breakout Space Space Retail

Lobby

MAIN STREET

Key

Interview Room

Classroom / IT Suite

Break Out / Dining Space

Classroom / IT Suite

Training Rooms / IT Suites / Gym

FP ME ME S

HW2

4no. Steps Refer to A8306-1960-HLM-DR-L962 Hard Landscape Details Sheet 9

1no. BE-5

Giant Chess Set Q50 / 335

SE ME

HW2

PL-1

PKU

Ground Floor

WF-1

1no. BE-1

HB2

PL-1 PKU

1no. BE-3

PL-1

1no. BE-1

1no. BE-4

Storage

Stone retaining wall

PKU

1no. BE-1

Staff Offices / Change

AT S

FLUSH SECTION TE

1no. BE-2

Fitness Centre

WF-2

16no. Timber Bollards Q50 / 190A

ME AT

ME FP ME

Staff Office

2no. BE-6

3no. BE-6

1no. BE-1

PL-2

PL-1

Circulation

Parasol Q50 / 325 'To be supplied by Help for Heroes'

PL-1

WF-3

Parasol Q50 / 325 'To be supplied by Help for Heroes'

SE ME

PL-1

Accommodation

Cafe Table Q50 / 230 2no. Cafe Chairs without arms 2no. Cafe Chairs with arms Q50 / 235 & 235A 'To be supplied by Help for Heroes'

Barbecue Q50 / 211 Refer to: A8306-1960-HLM-DR-L956 Hard Landscape Details Sheet 3 'To be supplied by Help for Heroes'

PL-1

PKU

PL-1

AREA IN ABEYANCE SUBJECT TO PLAY EQUIPMENT ITEMS Wet pour safety surface to be supplier by external party. Fencing detail subject to configuration

Classroom / IT Suite

1no. BE-1

Staff Change

4no. Cycle Hoops Q50 / 210B

1no. BE-1

Charities Office

HB2

Conference Room

PKU

13no. Steps Refer to A8306-1960-HLM-DR-L961 Hard Landscape Details Sheet 8

Memorial Statue

HW1

PKU

Greenhouse Q50 / 380 To be supplied by S 'Help for Heroes'

SE B

PKU

PL-4

PL-3

PL-4

PL-3

PL-4

PL-3

PL-4

PL-3

PK AT LB

URE / FITTINGS

PKU

Smoking Shelter As per Gaza projects standard design, with only 50% of wall elevation enclosed

PK PKU

urved Timber Bench - Type A - Q50 / 225A efer to: A8306-1960-HLM-DR-L954 - Hard Landscape Details Sheet 1 o be supplied by 'Help for Heroes' urved Timber Bench - Type B - Q50 / 225C efer to: A8306-1960-HLM-DR-L954 - Hard Landscape Details Sheet 1 o be supplied by 'Help for Heroes'

PKU

PKU S

PKU

PKU PK

Communal Kitchen

urved Timber Bench - Type B (mirrored) - Q50 / 225C efer to: A8306-1960-HLM-DR-L954 - Hard Landscape Details Sheet 1 o be supplied by 'Help for Heroes' urved Timber Bench - Type C - Q50 / 225C efer to: A8306-1960-HLM-DR-L954 - Hard Landscape Details Sheet 1 o be supplied by 'Help for Heroes'

First Floor

The site plan above shows Phoenix house within it’s context. Although within a 5 minute drive to Catterick Barracks, the recovery centre is a stand alone facility, which leases the land from the MoD. This was a conscious choice as the centre wanted a close affiliation with the barracks, but wanted to have a lot friendlier and approachable environment.

Art Room

Games Room

The site offers little room for expansion, despite the centre needing to grow due to it’s continuing popularity. It currently supports troops in their recovery, from Nottingham to Scotland, as well as Northern Ireland. The opposite page shows the floors plans of each floor. One of the key principles that the team are after in any future development, is flexibility of space. The centre holds a lot of events throughout the year and by having a flexible space, it can be utilised to greater effect. At present, the walls between the multi use social space and dining room, can be opened into one large open space.

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Communal Kitchen

Second Floor Improving the health of those who Serve

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Communal Kitchen

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Precedence

Spatial

Staff Offices

Breakout Space

Main Entrance

Multi-use Space

Breakout Space

Reception

Interview Room

Charities Office Classroom / IT Suite

Conference Room

Classroom / IT Suite

Support Hub

At present, there are private and public spaces interspersed throughout the building. After speaking with the Executive Officer, it became apparent that the building would have benefited from having all of the activity spaces on the ground floor, and the remaining floors being purely private. This is something to consider as I develop my scheme, in that some of the guests who come for the courses, will be there for only 1 day; residents may not appreciate these visitors having to come along the bedroom corridors to get to class.

As can be seen previously on the site plan, the main axis of the building is East-West. To the south, the site slopes up with building above, therefore blocking a lot of southern light. Therefore, plant rooms, changing rooms and the fitness suite, areas which require less light, are all on the southern wall. Offices are offset from the southernmost point, in order to maximise the light possible. Large open plan spaces are positioned to the north, to maximise the view, and allow for a greater expanse of glazing. The ceiling to the main corridor was raised to the underside of the roof level in order to maximise the height. However, this has a knock-on effect with the services. Due to their being no ceiling void, all of the services have to pass through ducting in the floor. This makes accessibility extremely difficult if there was to be an issue with any of the electrics on the northern side of the main corridor. This was highlighted as a fundamental error in the design by the Facilities Manager.

A key consideration of the design is the location of the support hub. Despite it now being too small in size due to it’s increasing popularity, it was positioned adjacent to the front entrance, so that any visitors wishing to use the hub, but who may be embarrassed or scared to come, don’t have to travel to far into the centre; they can “pop in and out” quickly. This is crucial as it shows a design consideration for all visitors and creates a welcoming environment, without being overwhelming.

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Precedence

Function

The following example shows the philosophy I would hope to employ within my scheme. Biesbosch Museum is the entrance point for visitors to the Biesbosch National Park. In the summer of 2015, a new 1,000m2 extension was opened in response to safety fears and to allow the museum to operate more efficiently. The land around the existing museum building was removed, turning the site into a manmade island. The project was developed in response to safety concerns, with the area converted into a water-retention zone as part of a national safety program.

filter into the building, providing greater economical benefits.

The major need for the renovation was the lack of suitable facilities for a growing visitor population, with a dire need for catering facilities. The extension houses a restaurant that offers views of the adjacent water and landscape, and areas for temporary exhibitions. The existing, hexagonal building comprises of the permanent exhibition, library, multi-purpose theatre, entrance area with reception and museum shop.

This philosophy has many benefits. That of using local people and materials to construct a building that evokes the local landscape and fits in seamlessly to itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s context. The museum provides multi-functional spaces and directs the visitors around its hexagonal floor plan, before it opening up at the entrance looking out to the landscape. The use of green materials and technologies should be something that should be a driving force behind my scheme.

The museum uses many resources available in the area, not only for its energy supply and water treatment, but also for the menu in the micro brew restaurant. Moreover, the museum can count on the commitment of dozens of volunteers, many of whom have worked in the Biesbosch in the past. Even most of the contractors and construction workers involved in the redevelopment come from the immediate area.

The new green roof assists in the energy efficiency, providing additional insulation. Furthermore, sky lights penetrating the roof allow an abundance of natural light to Page 28

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Brief

Programme

Meeting Hall

Accommodation

Physio

Kitchen

Physio

Meeting Space Waiting Area

Rehabilitation Space

Meeting Space

Office Dining Space

Gym

Reception Office Meeting Space Outdoor Spaces A project brief is beginning to develop based on the research collated to date. Due to the relatively few numbers of PRC around the country, assisting over 100,000 soldiers, there is an ever present requirement for further centres. At present, these centres can provide accommodation for nearly 170 injured service personnel, as well as a further 120 day attendee spaces. With over 6,000 medically discharged soldiers, there is an emerging need for these rehabilitation centres in the future. A prominent feature of these centres is the amount of open space. Phoenix House has 2500m2 of open land, as well as the Yorkshire Dales on itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doorstep. The expanse of space provides a buffer between any noise pollution; as well as a tranquil environment for patients to recover. Furthermore, additional residential accommodation will be required, a combination of single and family rooms. As well as the rehabilitation spaces, I want the grounds to be engaging with the patients and their families. A series of outdoor spaces that will provide not only milestone targets for the patients to reach, but also areas for the families to play in.

The centre needs to be as sustainable and environmentally friendly as possible to minimise the maintenance costs falling upon a charity. A key requirement of the brief will be to ensure that design maximises natural environmental opportunities, such as natural ventilation and daylighting. Research and analysis will be conducted to best maximise the design. With the majority of building occupants possibly being disabled, access is a fundamental consideration. Therefore, Approved Document Part M of the Building Regulations will be referred to throughout the design process, to ensure that everyone can access the scheme. This may possibly mean that the majority of scheme is on the ground floor, negating the need for any lifts. The principle aim of the project is to deliver a scheme that helps promote the stories of the injured service personnel, assisting in their re-integration into civilian lifestyle by introducing them to the general public as much as possible, whilst ensuring that at all times they feel safe within their environment.

Key

Exhibition Space

Private Areas (Staff) Public Areas (Patients) Semi-Private (Patients) Public Areas (General Public)

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Context Chapter Conclusion

This chapter has helped to highlight the urgent need for a new recovery centre, as the numbers of injured soldiers continue to increase and significant conflicts continue to appear on the horizon, such as in Syria and Ukraine/ Russia. Injured service personnel have traditionally being neglected by the British Army. However in recent years, their contribution and sacrifices have been recognised, with a number of charities being set up to assist in their recovery. The Personnel Recovery Centres are a great precedent for the rehabilitation aspect of my project. Analysing these centres, it is obvious that open, green spaces are a necessity for the patientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; recovery. In the following chapter, I will formulate a brief for the project, research a site and analyse it. On top of this, I will look at how the project can make best use of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surroundings, helping the building (s) be as efficient as possible.

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Site Chapter Introduction

This chapter will investigate site locations and analyse the chosen site; investigating topics such as daylight, transport links, historical context and gradient amongst other factors. These investigations are imperative as they will help to inform the future design. Within the UK, there are significant areas for the British Army, namely York, Wootton Bassett and London. The desired location for the proposed rehabilitation centre needs to be based on a number of parameters including the locations of existing centres; how the army is changing in 2020 and how the local area may react to such a centre being developed. The site location was based on many governing factors and once this was decided, research was undertaken to analyse the environmental conditions, that may help determine locations within the building programme. Furthermore, by understanding the local population and travel links into the city, the programme can be established to include museums or exhibitions which will enhance not only the local area, but also help tell the story of the injured service personnel. In concluding this chapter, I aim to be in a position to formulate a programme and brief for the scheme.

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Potential Sites

Key

Help for Heroes

Adaptable Force

British Army

Reaction Force

Royal British Legion

Force Troops Command

Key

London York HQ HQ

London District

Wootton Bassett

Reflecting on the future of the British army, there appears to be a relative lack of support in the north of England, in terms of recovery centres and transition officers. York will soon play host to the HQ 1st (United Kingdom) Division, the Adaptable Force Troops. Returning troops from Germany will be stationed in the city, meaning an influx of soldiers and a significant increase in numbers. I therefore believe that York will be best suited to a new rehabilitation centre.

Any project’s success hinges on its location. Its location needs to be convenient and easily accessible for it’s users. Therefore, the decision has to be based on a number of factors. After reviewing the locations of the Personnel Recovery centres around the country and the changes to the army by 2020; I believe three possible locations for the project are in York; Wootton Bassett and London. These three locations hold significance to the British Army. York has played host to a barracks since 1795 and as part of the army’s restructuring process, is due to become the head quarters of the adaptable force troops. Wootton Bassett is synonymous with the army during the repatriation of soldiers returning from the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Due to the local residents unwavering support, the town was granted Royal Patronage in 2011. Within London, there are five regular army units and two reservist units, counting thousands of soldiers within it’s ranks. Perhaps the most famous of the London based regiments is the Household Cavalry, which combine operational duties with State Ceremonies.

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At present, there is only Phoenix House recovery centre, over 40 miles away from York. The graphic opposite also shows a lack of transition offices based in the county. Wootton Bassett is situated within close proximity to a large army training base in the Salisbury Plains. Tedworth House, the largest PRC managed by Help for Heroes, is also located on the Salisbury Plains and would reduce the need for any further centres. Finally, London suffers due to the lack of open space necessary for a recovery centre. Having established a location for the rehabilitation centre, I will now begin to analyse York to find a suitable site based on the brief listed previously.

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Site

Site Key A-Roads B-Roads Roads Trainline Open Space River Building

1 - Army Barracks 2 - Police Station 3 - Bar Covent Museum 4 - Train Station 5 - Railway Museum

7 - Castle Museum 8 - Cliffords Tower 9 - Jorvik Museum 10 - York Dungeons 11 - York Minster

6 - National Railway Museum

12 - Yorkshire Museum

11 12 6

9 8

York will soon become the HQ for 1st (United Kingdom) Division, the Adaptable Force troops, as part of the Armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s restructuring process for 2020. Set within the heart of the county, York is known for itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic landmarks, City walls, The Minster and Viking heritage. York is easily accessible via road networks and the train line. The A19 runs through the city, linking Doncaster with Teeside, whilst the A64 links Leeds, York and Scarborough. Less than 15 miles away, is the main M1 motorway, linking London to the North. Via train, London is accessible within a little over two and a half hours; to Newcastle is an hour whilst Edinburgh is 2 1/2 hours away.

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Regional History

Regional History Timeline

Timeline 71 AD

210

York is founded by Roman Empire

1796

735

York is made capital city of Britannia Inferior

1839

Calvary Barracks Built

866

First railway arrives

Vikings capture the city

First Archbishop of York

1847

866

1854

Barracks garrisoned by 5th Dragoon Guards

1068

William the Conqueror arrives in York

1905

Military Hospital built within Barracks

1298

York becomes HQ of Northern Command

British Government is moved to York

York Caste is founded

1939

1644

1951

Farewell parade for horses

Civil War siege of York

1958

Barracks become known as Imphal Barracks

West & East Yorkshire Regiments amalgamate to form The Prince of Walesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Own Regiment of Yorkshire

Understanding the historical context of any site is vitally important to understand what has gone before. York has a vivid and ancient history, dating back to the Roman Empire and going on to become the capital of the Britannia Inferior. The original cavalry barracks were built in 1796 as part of the barrack-building programme initiated by William Pitt. York was then developed into a garrison in 1847 by the 5th Dragoon Guard, meaning a fortified place where troops are permanently stationed. By the turn of the 20th Century, York had become the Head Quarters of the Northern Command. From 10 officers and 210 men, the barracks had grown to 24 officers and 705 other ranks by the time York was garrisoned. In the build up to the Second World War, the barracks had a farewell parade for the horses as they were phased out in favour of armoured vehicles. For the duration of the war, the barracks were utilised by a succession of war-time units. The Battle of Imphal was considered to be the most significant battle honour won by the West Yorkshire Regiment during the Second World War and lead to the naming of the Imphal Barracks. In 1958 the West Yorkshire and East Yorkshire Regiments were amalgamated becoming The Prince of Walesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Own Regiment of Yorkshire. In 2006, they joined the remaining Yorkshire infantry regiments to become The Yorkshire Regiment. Page 40

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Demographic

Local Population

Tourist Population

101, 006 Females 97, 044 Males

83, 552 Households

7 Million Visitors

54, 831 Females (19 - 60) 54, 349 Males (19 - 60)

78% Employment rate 41% degree-level qualified

21, 057 Females (0 - 18 years old) 22, 289 Males (0 - 18 year olds)

The city of York attracts around 7 million people each year, generating over £500 million, meaning the tourism industry is a key figure for the economy. More than 3 million people walked through the doors of York’s attractions, with over 5.8 million people either day tripping (79%) to the area, or 21% staying over night.

Understanding the local demographic is a key to producing a successful scheme. The over-arching aim of the project is to take the stigma away from injured / disabled people in general and a primary way of achieving this is by integrating local public as much as possible. As you an see from the graphics above, the numbers are split nearly 50/50 between men and women with an average age of 40. In total, their are 198, 050 people living within 83, 552 households. With the majority of people being of quite a mature age, it can be presumed that they are aware of the injured service personnel situation and are looking to help. There are also around 22, 000 students living within York, allowing for huge potential numbers of visitors to the project.

There are nearly 250, 000 overseas visitors coming to the city each year, with 18% (41, 400) coming from the U.S.A, whilst 16% (36, 800) coming from Australia. Four of the remaining top ten countries are from within Europe, proving how popular York is with visitors from outside the EU.

25, 118 Females (61+) 20, 406 Males (61+)

With such large numbers of visitors coming to the area every year, there is huge potential for an injured service personnel museum to succeed. York Castle is famous for it’s military collection, whilst there is also the Royal Dragoon Guards museum, displaying artefacts and portraying the history of the Yorkshire regiment. York has a rich military heritage and there is clearly scope to expand on this and develop a new military museum for injured service personnel as the project hopes to do.

Over 40% have a degree-level qualification or above, with 78% of the local population being in employment, contributing over £4.1bn to the British economy. This clearly shows that the area is affluent, and often highly educated. The industry sector has greatly evolved over time; from railway and the Rowntree factory to a services based industry. Page 42

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Energy Analysis

Energy Analysis Environmental

Environmental Wind

Solid fuels equates to 2676 tonnes

Bio-energy waste equates to 4057 tonnes Electricity equates to 26088 tonnes

Wind equates to 20.3%

Solar equates to 3.8%

Hydro & Tidal equates to 3.7%

Plant biomass equates to 24.2%

Natural gas equates to 40152 tonnes

Bio-energy excluding plant biomass equates to 48%

The UK places a huge amount of trust into the coal and oil industry in order to produce the electricity and energy the country needs. Given that the rehabilitation centre is to be funded through a charity, this would mean that the heating and electric bills could run into the many hundreds of pounds per year. I therefore would prefer to use the smaller energy produces, such as wind and solar power. However, I believe that rather than simply relying on these energy forms; if the building plan is designed in an appropriate manner, the energy consumption can be greatly reduced. As the graph to the left shows, usage of the renewable energies has increased significantly over the past couple of decades, but more needs to be achieved in order to reduce carbon emissions and global warming. This is something not only architects need to consider, but every individual, and will be a primary focus of the proposed scheme.

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Petrol equates to 60956 tonnes

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Context

Terrain Elevation & Gradient

Surrounding Barracks & Transport

Key Motorway DualCarriageway A-Road River

As well as many other reservist battalions located around the region, there are 15 Regular Army barracks found within Yorkshire, including Strensall, less than 10 miles north of York.

York is on the main railway line between Edinburgh and London, joining two of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capitals. Furthermore, the railway has easy access to large cities in North England, such as Leeds and Newcastle.

The graphic highlights how central York is to the regular army and that there is a significantly large number of barracks, within Yorkshire itself, that the Help for Heroes managed Phoenix House recovery centre is currently having to assist. This is discounting the barracks north of Yorkshire, in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

There are also several major roads that pass through York. The A64 is a ring road around Leeds, before turning to a dual carriageway towards York and then onto Scarborough. There is also the A19 running north to south, parallel to the A1. The A19 links Doncaster in the south, to Teeside in the north. Linking Merseyside to York is the A59, which also passes through Lancashire.

Choosing a site within York will depend on a number of parameters, including those that have been discussed within this chapter. Due to the infamous nature of Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s floods, elevation above the river is one key aspect, whilst gradient will be another. These two parameters are historically ranked amongst the highest considerations when searching for an area of land to form a settlement. The elevation map, above left, shows that the surrounding area around York is very low lying, demonstrating the large scale nature of the flood plains. Through having low lying areas of land around York, the gradient is also very shallow, shown in the right hand image. This information leads to the conclusion that there is plenty of land around York that has the potential to be built upon, given that it is flat land, the main consideration being as to if the site is above the flood plains. The information shown above is analysed further at varying scales in the accompanying DSIT A workbook. On the following pages, green belt and flooding levels are discussed, two additional parameters that will influence the final location of the site.

Whilst York is on the main Edinburgh to London railway line, it is also within close proximity to the A1 (m), the main north/ south motorway also linking the two capitals. Travelling from York city centre to the A1 is less than 15 miles, 25 minutes.

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With so many railways and roads leading to the city, it helps to identify why the city is so easy for tourists to reach, and why it is so popular for day trippers. Reading the map above with figures given on the previous pages, there is huge potential for large number of tourists to visit the centre / museum. Improving the health of those who Serve

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Policies

Greenbelt

Flooding

The river Ouse runs through the centre of York and helped provide essential transport links when the city was expanding in itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s early history. However, as can be seen on the map on previous pages, the terrain around the city and surrounding areas is very low, leading to large floods plains.

York is known as a beautiful and idyllic city. To help protect the landscape, the city has extremely strict planning regulations and future expansion is limited due to the surrounding greenbelt. The graphic above highlights how limited the growth of the city is. The dark green represents greenbelt, whilst the light green shows the open spaces existing within the city itself.

York suffers from regular flooding, with two notable large scale floods occurring in 2000 & 2012, with images opposite. If to build on an area of land that is susceptible to flooding, careful consideration will need to be taken into account to protect the scheme.

With the centre requiring a lot of outdoor, open space, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the option to either build on the edge of the city, where the greenbelt can be utilised as this outdoor area; or demolish an area of land to build the centre. However, with the current housing crisis, removing valuable housing, as the majority of the building types are on the outskirts of York, would not be the most suitable solution.

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Site

An already historic military city, York is soon to become a focal point of the British Army. I have chosen to site my project within York for a variety of reasons, none more so than the lack of Personnel Recovery Centres in the north of country and with York becoming the HQ for the Adaptable Force troops. Within York itself, I have chosen the site to be alongside the Army Barracks, ensuring there is a close connection between the centre and the serving soldiers. The site also overlooks the Walmgate Stray, a large expanse of open space, hidden from the rest of the city. Whilst the stray is classified as green belt, I hope to incorporate it into the scheme by developing a series of temporary structures. These structures will have to be lightweight to ensure they require no foundations, however they should enhance the landscape. I intend for interesting spaces to be built upon the stray; spaces where people can come and contemplate, and engage with the feature. The site benefits from having easy access, being cited on the edge of the city within easy reach to the A64 and just off the A19. The scheme will be a 15 minute walk from the city centre and a 30 minute walk from the train station. Page 50

Site Views

As described previously, the scheme would play host to a recovery centre, helping soldiers in their rehabilitation and transition into civilian life. However, this would only be a part of the overall project. Accommodation would be provided on a short stay / temporary basis for the course residents. A museum celebrating the injured service personnel will also be established, alongside spectacular spaces, to be not only used by the centre, but by the genera public too; helping to remove any stigma and break down barriers between the service and the public. Opposite are various images taken of the site to help show the context and surrounding landscape. Overall, the site is approximately 12,200m2, excluding the stray, with room to expand if required. There are a number of surrounding housing estates, which in time would become phase two of the project, and be seen to turn into accommodation for veterans; creating an area where veterans and civilians live aside each other.

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Environmental Analysis

Environmental Analysis Rainfall / Relative Humidity / Cloud Cover

5 Jan Mar

15 10 5

May

Month

July

Sep

Nov

Day

Jan Mar

May

Month

July

Sep

Nov

Site analysis is vitally important to any project to ensure that the scheme is as environmentally efficient as possible. This will help reduce running costs, a positive for any building, especially a charity funded building; as well as having an influence on layout.

Day

Jan Mar

180 120

May

Month

July

Sep

Nov

Day

occurring throughout the year, it may be possible to utilise some sort of harvesting system. Flash flooding becomes a possibility in the situation.

Jan Mar

May

Month

July

Sep

Nov

Key January February March April May June

From the graphics shown above, it is possible to see that there is a definite increase in temperatures during the summer months, with temperatures often surpassing 25°C during early afternoons.

80 60 40 20

5 30

240

Daily Cloud Cover (%)

Relative Humidity (%)

Rainfall Duration (mins)

Rainfall (mm)

Wind Spped (mph)

Temperature (˚C)

Temperature / Wind Speed / Rainfall

July August September October November December

Wind is going to be a significant factor in the project as there are often strong winds, throughout the year. The south-westerly prevailing wind will bring with it warmer Mediterranean air. However, the surrounding housing estates and buildings can help protect the area from these winds, meaning that the cooler, northerly winds will be tangible and more noteworthy.

Day

Jan Mar

80 60 40 20

May

Month

July

Sep

Nov

Day

Jan Mar

May

Month

July

Sep

Nov

Day

Whilst a higher amount of rain is expected during the autumn months, more sustained periods of rain are more common during the winter months. Prolonged flooding is therefore a possibility, as can be seen on the previous flooding page. The relative humidity often sits around the 75-80% mark, meaning that there is quite a high percentage of moisture in the air, but not so much that it increases the perceived temperature. With very little change throughout the year, there should be little need for any dehumidifier machines. The cloud cover graph is slightly misleading, as it suggests that for large portions of the day, even throughout summer, that the skies are overcast. The data doesn’t differentiate between type of cloud cover, i.e. clouds that are more likely to cause precipitation. However, the graph does show that there is a high probability of some shading being produced by the cloud cover.

There is a substantial amount of rainfall during the Autumn months with as much as 26mm falling within one day in September 2014. With a high percentage of rain Page 52

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Environmental Analysis

Environmental Analysis Solar Shading

Sun Path

Spring Equinox

Autumn Equinox

Winter Solstice

1200

1500

1800

Summer Solstice

0900

1200

1500

1800

Autumn Equinox

0900

1200

1500

1800

Winter Solstice

0900

1200

1500

1800

N 10˚ 20˚ 30˚ 40˚ 50˚ 60˚ 70˚ 80˚

21:40

Solar analysis can help to inform the design. For example, it would be beneficial to orientate the bedroom accommodation to the North, as they require little daylight; whilst the activity spaces that require higher lighting levels should face South to make the most of the natural daylight. W

04:32

09:00 15:00

12:00

15:44

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0900

Summer Solstice

Solar analysis of the site is hugely important to help ensure that the project is as efficient as possible. By utilising the daylight, lighting costs can be limited; whilst it is important to regulate the amount of solar gain.

As can be seen on the diagrams above and on the opposite page, the site receives plenty of direct sunlight throughout the majority of the year. Due to such a large open area around the site, especially to the east, the project will receive plenty of direct daylight during the early parts of the morning.

Spring Equinox

08:21

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Precedence

Environmental

The visitors centre utilises a natural ventilation strategy, a passive system I aim to use within my scheme. All of the five buildings have a north facing roof light to avoid over exposure to the summer sun, with integral blinds to prevent over heating.

Located within the middle of a lake in Brockholes Nature Reserve near Preston, is the £8.6m Brockhole Visitor Centre. As a response to building in a floodplain, Adam Khan Architects took the bold decision to build on the water itself; atop a concrete floating pontoon, that rises and falls with the water.

When combined with low level vents that run along the perimeters of the buildings, the rooflights create a stack effect. These vents are positioned below the windows and are controlled by a building management system. Cool air enters through the vents, mixing with the warmer air within the building, before being exhausted through the rooflights.

The centre aims to be as sufficient as possible, with Hareth Pochee, an engineer at Max Fordham, explaining”It was clear from the outset that environmental performance was top of the client’s agenda.” Windows have been orientated to not only take advantage of the beautiful surroundings, but to maximise natural daylight, minimising the requirement for any artificial lighting. The double glazed windows are specially designed to give the performance of triple glazing, without the loss of light transmission.

Brockholes visitor centre also uses a reed bed filtration system to clean the lake’s water before being used for toilets and any waste water activities. After the grey water is used for sanitation purposes, it passes through the reed bed to be recycled again. Reed beds work by cleansing the water that passes through the bed. This is done using three main elements: Microbes (soil based); Physical and chemical properties of soil(or base material); Reeds (plants). These create a rich environment where aerobic bacteria can thrive. These organisms breakdown compounds found in sewage.

The windows are also designed to maximise the solar gains generated during the lower winter sun. When the sun is higher in the sky, during summer, external awnings are extended to limit the amount of direct sunlight overheating the building. Page 56

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Principles

Principles Environmental

Environmental

Windows are a key feature in the environmental principles as they effect both lighting and ventilation. The size of windows will obviously allow a greater amount of sunlight in; however they will also allow for more solar gain.

To combat this, solar shading may be required. This can be as simple as a blind either internally or externally, or alternatively through a solar shading device such as large overhangs, louvres or brise soleil.

Windows are the most obvious form for natural ventilation. However, depending on how they are hung can greatly vary their effectiveness, as well as their height up the wall. Placing windows higher up the wall, can increase the natural stack effect.

Kitchens are a prime example of rooms utilising high ceilings. As the warmer air rises, the heat gets contained within the ceiling. This air can then be used to heat incoming air in a heat recovery system.

Natural environmental strategies will be the bedrock of the scheme. As showcased on these pages, there are multiple ways in which this can be achieved. Any openings in the faĂ§ade will need to be carefully considered in terms of aesthetics and environment. The primary principle of the scheme is to be as efficient and sustainable as possible. Natural lighting is important to help create a welcoming and warm internal environment, not only for the residents but also the staff. Artificial lighting may be required to enable specific tasks to be performed, but in the main, the project will be naturally lit. I will therefore have to pay considerable attention to the siteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sun path.

Rooflights can provide three times more natural daylight compared to a vertical window. They will light a lot greater space, but will also allow for a far greater amount of solar gain. Therefore, as seen in the Brockholes Visitor Centre, rooflights could be orientated to the north to combat this over heating.

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Sun pipes are a great way of getting natural light into a deep plan building. Whilst allowing some natural daylight in, they are not as efficient as rooflights as they have a smaller aperture. EXPAND

Improving the lives of those who Serve

As seen in the Brockholes Visitor Centre, rooflights are used to assist in the natural ventilation. Air is drawn in at low level, before being exhausted through the rooflights utilising the natural stack effect.

Improving the lives of those who Serve

Ventilation is equally important to ensure a comfortable climate. Windows and rooflights can greatly assist in the natural ventilation strategy. The scheme will be slightly protected from the prevailing winds as shown on the previous page, however careful thought must be given to the cooler, northerly winds. Therefore, the openings along the north / east faĂ§ades will need consideration, especially as this is the main entrance for the public. Page 59

Principles

Principles Environmental

Environmental Summer

Winter

(Hrs)

The wind rose opposite shows the prevailing wind coming from the south/ south west, as is common throughout the UK. This prevailing wind will be coming from the warmer Mediterranean areas and so is likely to bring relatively warmer air. However, the wind rose also shows that wind comes from all directions, and often from the north. This northern wind will be coming from the Arctic, and will be carrying colder air. The diagram above shows that whilst the warmer prevailing south westerly wind is more frequent, there are a large number of properties and buildings blocking the strength of the wind on the site, probably protecting the site. Whilst the northern part of the site is exposed to the colder northern winds. This will need to be thought about during the design, as the northern façade of any building is generally cooler than the remaining sides due to it’s lack of direct sunlight.

600>

solar gain, the design and environmental strategies are extremely important. Whilst the scheme can be designed to work efficiently within the environment, natural features can be used to protect a building. Building within a canyon is one such way of using the natural environment to offer protection.

500 400 300 200 100

50 mph

<50 30 20 270˚

90˚

With such a large expanse of land to the east of the site, some form of protection will be required from the elements. As mentioned previously, the wind coming from the north and east is colder, but less frequent. This will have a dramatic effect on the building fabric, conducting the heat out of the building.

Therefore, some form of protection may be required to this northern side to negate the effect of the cooler wind. Alternatively, by having relatively few windows along this side, the proposal could be inherently protected. Page 60

The diagrams above use trees to help the building act more efficient. In the summer when the sun is high in the sky, with less frequent wind, the foliage reduces the amount of direct sunlight reaching the building, negating the solar gains. Furthermore, the natural barriers will deflect the wind up and over a low lying building.

180˚

Improving the health of those who Serve

One of the primary functions of any building is to protect its inhabitants from the elements. To help the building become more efficient, i.e. suffer from less heat loss or Improving the health of those who Serve

In the winter when the trees are bare, a greater amount of sunlight can pass through the canopy and help to heat the building. This will reduce the amount of mechanical heating required, assisting in lowering the running costs. This is a huge benefit for any person / company, even more so when the building in question is managed by a charity and funding is slim. Page 61

Site Chapter Conclusion

In deciding upon York as the schemes location, the project has the ability to influence and enhance the lives of thousands of injured soldiers, as well as the opportunity to inspire tourists and local people alike. Initial research was conducted into where to locate the project and it was decided that York represented the best location in terms of future expansion of the army, an excellent existing tourist population and good transport links. The chosen site within York is an area of land adjacent to the Imphal Barracks and currently used by the barracks as sports fields. This location was chosen as it offered a close relationship with the barracks, as Phoenix House has within Catterick Garrison; a large expanse of open land immediately off the site, allowing local residents and visitors a separate entrance to the site and a private entrance for the schemeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residents from the barracks themselves. Thorough investigations and analysis then took place into the environmental and energy usage of the site, to understand how the scheme could be developed in order to maximise its self sufficiency and energy usage. It was found that the majority of the scheme will receive plenty of natural daylight for the majority of the year; however there is the potential for a cold, north easterly wind having the opportunity to generate speed over the adjacent Walmgate stray and create a cooler micro-climate for the site. Therefore, a number of environmental principles were established after analysing the environmental data and a number of precedents, such as Brockholes Visitors Centre. The environmental principles are in place in order to begin the initial concept design. A number of diagrams were used to help portray these principles, with key principles being that natural light and ventilation should be used as much and where ever possible, sky lights should be north facing as was noted in the Brockholes Visitors Centre, and that natural landscaping should be used as opposed to man made objects, in order to protect the site from the northerly wind. In the following chapter, this information will be used to begin designing concept building layouts and assist in the internal environmental desired conditions. Improving the lives of those who Serve

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Concept Chapter Introduction

Within this chapter I will begin to develop a more detailed brief expanding on the initial programme proposed previously. A large amount of information and concepts will be discussed, including relationships and sizes of the programme, the environmental requirements and ergonomic factors, as well as key room considerations. This information will be extremely important to the success of the scheme. The environmental requirements will inform the locations of spaces. For example, the art room and workshop will require plenty of light, therefore the aim is to make sure they are orientated to the south. I have previously discussed dividing the buildings into a village typology and within this chapter I describe how this could be achieved and the spaces and facilities that can be grouped under one roof. Following analysis of precedents regarding form, I will investigate a number of construction methods that can be utilised on the scheme. Systems such as modular construction, Structurally Insulted Panels and Shipping container architecture will all be analysed and evaluated. Understanding the chosen construction system will allow me to further the design in the following chapter, where military construction techniques will be analysed and developed. In concluding this chapter, I aim to have established a set of design principles that will then be utilised throughout the development of my scheme.

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Brief

Brief Programme

Programme Accommodation

Meeting Space

Security Outdoor Spaces

Support Hub Office reception Art Room IT Suite

Dining

Gym Shop Plant Museum

Exhibition Space

In live projects, the project often begins by the architect being given a brief by the client. This may include a schedule of accommodation, time-scales, budget and design styles. The architect then works alongside the client to finalise the requirements of the proposed scheme. This project is focused around a rehabilitation centre for injured service personnel in York, soon to be the headquarters of the Adaptable Force Troops. The scheme will become only the second PRC in the north of England, helping thousands of injured soldiers rehabilitate either back into the services or for a civilian life. At the end of the first chapter, I gave an initial schedule of accommodation. Shown above is the refined version. Over subsequent pages I will investigate the ergonomic and environmental factors of the spaces, before narrowing down key environmental conditions on main spaces.

Kitchen

Breakout Space

Workshop

room, or gym and changing rooms, floor layouts begin to form. The diagram shown above portrays an illustrative setting out of the building. Relating rooms are linked and spaces sizes are shown indicatively. Private (residents / staff ) and public spaces are highlighted and refined on following pages. This information will help assist in the initial design grouping. By grouping these similar rooms together, their properties can be considered as a collective. For example, office spaces, meeting rooms and charity support hubs require a private, quiet area, lending itself to keeping these rooms away from the public view of Walmgate Stray. The main spaces are going to include the gym and sports facilities - these are one of the main reasons for the projects as they are going to assist in the physical rehabilitation of the soldiers. Another key space will be the relaxing / quiet spaces. These will need to be areas that individuals can go to, to be on their own; as well as a space where families can convene and be together.

Understanding how a series of spaces can be related to each other is a key principle in The museum aspect of the project hopes to portray the injured soldiers in a positive the initial design process. By grouping relating rooms such as a kitchen and a dining Page 66

Improving the health of those who Serve

light, taking the stigma away from the issue and helping to highlight the brave stories and sacrifices that the soldiers have been through. The museum is likely to be the focal point of the public areas of the scheme and as such, should be obvious to the outside. Individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stories are to be posted around the walls, with installations of war zones a possibility, as well as interactive displays. One of the main points mentioned by the team at Phoenix House, was that of flexible spaces. The meeting rooms should have the opportunity to open out and become a large open plan space - this will allow for functions, events or ceremonies to be held here, rather than in the sports gym as the internal environmental conditions are likely to differ greatly from the meeting rooms.

Private Public Furthermore, natural lighting and ventilation are known to improve social well being. Finally, the principle aim for the scheme is to assist in the rehabilitation of the injured service personnel. This will be a building where the residents will stay for the duration of their course, approximately 3-4 weeks and so the design needs to be well thought out and accessible for all. Breaking down the barriers between the forces and the public is something that I hope the scheme will achieve, and that will mean that the design requires careful consideration in order to provide a welcoming, open environment that encourages the public to visit, whilst ensuring the privacy and security of the residents at all times.

Sustainability is one of the main driving points behind the design of the project. As many of the other PRCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, the scheme is likely to be managed and funded by charities. Therefore, ensuring that the building operates as cheaply as possible is a key issue. Natural lighting and ventilation can easily be accommodated for within the design, as opposed to fixing photovoltaic panels and wind turbines to the project later. Improving the health of those who Serve

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Programme

Programme Space Sizes

Spaces Sizes

Museum : 180m2

Art Room : 60m2

Workshop : 100m2

Support Hub : 200m2

IT Suite : 65m2 Kitchen : 60m2

Meeting Space : 65m2

Gym : 350m2

Understanding the required sizes for the programme is essential. Portrayed on this page are diagrams showing the sizes of various spaces of the programme. When these are read in conjunction with the information given over subsequent pages, the basis of layouts begin to form. The largest spaces are given over to the gym, support hub and museum as these are the main functions of the scheme and the focal points. Whilst the bedroom sizes appear to be relatively small, the graphic shows the space given to one bedroom, including en-suite. In total, the scheme will look to provide around 40 bedrooms. Significant other spaces include the staff offices, the dining rooms and the activity spaces. The sizes given to each space are derived from the required regulations and consultation with the staff at the Help for Heroesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Phoenix Centre. They advised that a larger gym and activity space would be essential; whilst the 49 bedrooms they have is the perfect amount. A main discussion point was the urgent need for a larger support hub. This scheme will posses a lot larger support hub, offering the chance to assist and support many more injured soldiers. Page 68

Bedroom : 19.5m2 En-Suite : 5.3m2 Residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kitchen : 55m2

Exhibition Space : 150m2

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Staff Offices : 200m2

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Dining Space : 180m2

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Programme

Programme Activities

Relationships

Private

Served

Servant

Public I described on the previous page how vital it is to have rooms with similar properties close to each other so that they can be managed accordingly. On the diagram to the right, spaces are broken down into their private / public requirements. The most private of spaces is reserved for the injured soldiers’ accommodation. Whilst the accommodation will require pleasant views, they won’t want the general public to be able to see in. The support hub will also require a lot of privacy. The Executive Officer at Phoenix House, as discussed previously, spoke about how some people find it extremely difficult to even make it to the doorstep of the facility, let alone coming inside and joining in. Having the support hub in a secluded area, away from the general public will help to ensure that the service personnel feel more comfortable. As you look down the list, the spaces become increasingly public, areas such as the exhibition and reception areas which are relatively public. Finally, the general public will be graciously welcomed into the museum, shop and outdoor spaces. One of the key principles of the brief is to take the stigma away from the injured soldiers and Page 70

celebrate their achievements and sacrifices. One of the principle ways to achieve this is by engaging with the public as much as possible, meaning there will be a fine balance between being too open so that the soldiers don’t feel safe, and too private that the public don’t know the facility exists.

Over the next couple of pages, investigations take place into the ergonomic considerations of the future occupants of the scheme. This page shows some of the activities that will take place in various buildings around the site, to further explain the programme.

The diagram on the right highlights several rooms which will either serve, or be served. By this I mean that the kitchen will serve the dining room, whilst the gym will be served by changing rooms. This helps in affiliating key areas as displayed on the pages previously, again helping to focus down potential layouts. A key example shown above is the exhibition space which is linked to the art room and workshop. The main purpose of the exhibition space is to showcase the items made by the residents, assisting in improving the self esteem of the residents as they can see their work on display with people admiring it.

Within the workshop, a number of wood turning and machining tools will be available. One of the main aims of the workshop is to not only give the soldiers a creative outlet, but enable tradesmen to come in and help teach the residents new skills that may enable them to find employment when they return to civilian life. Physio and physical rehabilitation will be the main activities to be conducted in the gym. Even though the soldiers will need to be independent to come to the centre, they may still require this assistance in learning to walk and run again. There will be a number of sports courses that will assist in this, as well as courses for sports such as basketball and swimming.

has a key role to play. It will act as the main reception, dining space, gift shop area for the scheme and will help to give information to the visitors. In terms of it’s exhibition, there will be figures and ornaments, as portrayed in this workbook, that help to give a sense of what the injured service personnel go through. However the key aim will be to educate and make aware the stories that these injured soldiers have been through, to give them an outlet and share their experiences. The final, lower left diagram, depicts the Support Hub. Considered to be one of the most private areas of the scheme, a large number of activities will take place here. Being open to drop in guests as well as the residents, the Support Hub will offer assistance in training, education, housing, other charities, welfare, employment and medical issues such as prosthetics. Furthermore, the military office would ideally be located within close proximity, as well as a number of desk spaces for other charities to work from. This is a key space in the welfare of the residents.

Considered to be the main entrance to the scheme for the public visitors, the museum Improving the health of those who Serve

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Programme

Programme Ergonomic Considerations

Ergonomic Considerations

1480

1200

1000

1350

1450

1700

800

Any building needs to cater for itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inhabitants. It is vitally important that this building caters for the injured and disabled people. Approved Document Part M of the Building Regulations sets out the guidelines regarding Access to and Use of Buildings, covering items such as level access and suitable sanitary conveniences.

Some of the residents and visitors to the centre are likely to be either in a wheel chair or using some form of walking stick / crutch. Therefore, this means that understanding the ergonomics and limitations are crucial to producing a scheme that works for everyone.

Shown above are a variety of diagrams for principles that will be required in the scheme. Ensuring that level access is accessible throughout the scheme is one of the most important things, as any steps will provide problematic not only for wheel chair users, but will provide an unnecessary obstacle for people using crutches and prosthetic limbs alike. Furthermore, design considerations such as an accessible kitchen where the worktops can be raised and lowered will be a key feature.

As you can see in the top left hand image, the maximum reach of the average wheel chair user is 1700mm. Placing a shelf at 1800mm therefore would render the space redundant, as only able bodied people will be able to use it. Furthermore, you can see that the average width of a wheel chair user and a person on crutches would give a combined 2000mm width. Therefore, by having corridors at 1800mm as is common place, would not facilitate the easy passing of these two people side by side.

Building Regulations Part M

Due to the size and requirements for lifts, I have decided to ensure that the project is primarily single storey. This negates the requirements of lifts and stairs, allowing all of the buildingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; occupants to access the entire scheme. However, some office accommodation may be required to be provided on an upper floor due to the size of the site. Page 72

Building Regulations Part M

Furthermore, access around the site will be imperative. There will be little use to stairs if there is no ramp, as this will not comply with Part M of the Building Regulations. Therefore, understanding the dynamics of a ramp, as shown opposite, is also crucial. The importance of these dimensions can not be underestimated, however, if used correctly, they could create some fantastic, unique spaces. Improving the health of those who Serve

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Programme

Programme Environmental Issues

Lighting

Environmental Considerations

Air Speed

Mean Radiant Temperature

Relative Humidity

Clothing

Work Rate

Ventilation Types

Air Exchange Rates

Ventilation

Air Temperature

Environmental conditions are as crucial factor in ensuring that a building is successful. Portrayed on this page are various requirements of producing a comfortable, internal environment. Factors such as Thermal Comfort, Lighting, Ventilation and Building Fabric.

theme that I intend to run throughout the project - that as much of the spaces should be lit naturally. This will not only lower the running costs, but will also assist in giving the scheme a more open appearance. Furthermore, there is a strong correlation between natural lighting and increased patient recovery.

There are a plethora of other regulations that are required to comply with, however, the ones listed opposite relate to the efficiency and internal climate of a building. In order for the project to be considered a success, each individual space will need to be considered against these environmental factors.

There are six factors that determine thermal comfort, shown above. Air temperature, air speed, mean radiant temperature and relative humidity are all environmental factors that the building can influence, whilst other considerations are personal factors - clothing and the occupants’ work rate. These personal factors will have a key influence, for example, in a gym people will be often expelling a lot of heat energy, so the room will need to be cooler than a quiet room where people will often be sitting.

In the British Building Regulations, regulations are given regarding ventilation and building fabric. Ventilation is covered in Approved Document Part F which covers topics such as flow and air exchange rates, types of ventilation and how new buildings compare to existing buildings. Similar to the lighting challenge, I aim to utilise natural ventilation as much as possible.

The previous pages help to show how rooms are related function-wise. This page displays similarities in the environmental aspects of rooms. It is important to analyse which rooms will require mechanical ventilation, such as a kitchen, compared with rooms such as offices, that can be naturally ventilated. Naturally ventilated spaces will therefore be on the perimeter of the building and it is this type of information that helps to decipher possible layouts of the building.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), whilst not giving statutory regulations regarding lighting levels, they do give minimum guidelines which are shown in the table above. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) (WHSW) Regulations simply requires that lighting at work is “suitable and sufficient.” The HSE also place a huge emphasis that where reasonably practical, spaces should be naturally lit. This is a Page 74

Approved Document Part L2A - Conservation of Power & Fuel in New Buildings other than Dwellings discusses the energy efficiency of the Building Regulations. The regulations state that reasonable provision shall be made for the provision of conservation of power and fuel by: limiting heat gains and losses (through the building fabric and services); and providing fixed building services which are efficient and user controlled. Improving the health of those who Serve

Reading this in conjunction with the tables and information listed opposite, I am able to view relationships between different rooms’ properties. It is imperative that the building operates within “comfortable” climates; although “comfortable” conditions are subjective. Therefore, the spaces are required to work within a range of environmental conditions that suit the average population. Improving the health of those who Serve

The diagram above portrays rooms that can be naturally lit and ventilated; whilst rooms such as the kitchen and wood working workshop will require artificial daylight and mechanical ventilation as they have specific requirements. Some rooms will require a mixture of natural daylighting and spot lights for specific activities; similarly some rooms will require both natural and mechanical ventilation in certain situations. Situating these rooms close to each other will reduce the amount of service ducting required, allowing ceilings to be higher and a smaller plant room. By utilising technologies such as heat exchangers, then the exhausted air from the warmer rooms, such as the gym and kitchen, can be used to warm the fresh, incoming air into the rest of the building, without contaminating it with pollutants and smells. The relationships are vital in order to produce concept schemes and to optimise the building’s efficiency. Reading this information in conjunction with the information provided on previous pages, concept layouts are beginning to develop.

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Programme

Programme Key Room Considerations

Key Room Considerations

Bedroom

Gym

Museum

Exhibition Space

The accommodation for the residents is going to be one of the most private places of the scheme to ensure that the residents feel safe when on site. The rooms are going to be as naturally ventilated and lit as possible, although subsidy mechanical ventilation and lighting may be required in the en-suite. The rooms are going to have to be insulated well to avoid noise disrupting other residents.

The gym and rehabilitation area aims to be one of the focal points for the project. The primary aim is to take the stigma away from the injured soldiers issue and so by opening up the rehabilitation process, the scheme aims to integrate the public and soldiers. Acoustically, the gym will need to ensure that it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t disrupt the externals. Natural daylight and ventilation will be supplemented by mechanical means when necessary.

Potentially the most advertised part of the scheme, alongside the exhibition space, will be the museum. Here, personal stories from the front-line will adorn the walls. A plethora of other items will be exhibited from war-zones, as well as the possibility of an interactive display. A combination of mechanical and natural ventilation and daylighting will be required, when the specifics of the exhibits is finalised.

As mentioned previously, the exhibition space aims to be one of the most popular areas for the general public, showcasing items created by the course members in the workshops. The majority of the space will be naturally ventilated and daylight, although some localised lighting may be required on specific items.

Breakout Spaces

Art room & Workshop

Support Hub

IT Suite / Classroom

Breakout spaces are going to populate the majority of the project allowing soldiers a place to retreat to, or meet with members of the public, or allow members of the general public to meet and convene. Therefore, the area will need to feel open, whilst providing adequate security when necessary. Provisions will need to be in place to avoid any noise disrupting the other occupants of the building.

Two of the most prominent spaces of the project will be the art room and workshop. Courses will be run out of these spaces and any items made will be displayed in the exhibition. Especially in the workshop, there will be some large pieces of equipment which will require specific ventilation and extraction rates, as well as localised lighting for a variety of tasks. Therefore, the spaces will require a combination of natural and mechanical means in order for the rooms to comply and work to the best of their ability.

The support hub needs to be an area where service people feel that they can come without any fear. Small one on one places will be required as well as larger offices from which some charities can operate. Security is a principle concern here, therefore large open expanses of glass wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be used. As with all the offices, natural ventilation and daylighting will be used.

The heat loads given off in the IT suite will need to be carefully considered. Therefore some form of mechanical ventilation may be required to remove any heat gains, although the space aims to use natural ventilation as much as possible. Glare will also be another key consideration. Large over hangs or blinds can help to reduce this, although these may make the interior quite dark, meaning artificial lighting may be required.

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Concept

Concept Layouts

Layouts

Public Spaces Accommodation

Meeting Space

Security Outdoor Spaces

Support Hub

Support Hub Office reception Art Room IT Suite

Dining

Gym Shop Plant Museum

Exhibition Space

Kitchen

Workshop

Breakout Space

Private Public

The graphic above shows the programme accommodation given previously. If the above was to be provided for over a single storey, the plan would need to be extremely long to allow for natural means to be used. I therefore propose to base my design on a village-type design, with individual buildings being used to house different activities. This is portrayed in the diagram opposite. If the activities were grouped under one roof, the building would be very linear, making the circulation feel a bit like a process - going from one room, to another, then another. By using a village like concept, different buildings would make use of their specific internal requirements and the circulation is broken up a lot more creating a more intriguing and interesting arrangement.

Course Accommodation Accommodation

Shown on the opposite page is how the areas could be broken down. I believe there to be four main criteria for how the schedule of accommodation can be broken down: The Support Hub, Accommodation, the Course Accommodation and the Public Spaces, which I believe could be broken down even further. Page 78

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Concept

Concept Design Strategy

Design Strategy

Starting Point

Increasing Natural Elements

Private Spaces

Support Hub

As described previously, if the accommodation was to be under a single roof, the building would be extremely large, requiring plenty of artificial daylight and ventilation, as well as a thick structure. The amount of ducting and services required would probably require a significant ceiling void, again increasing costs. This type of layout fails to satisfy the brief due to the aforementioned points.

By splitting the building footprint in two and creating a courtyard or corridor through the centre of the footprint, allows for the northern building to now receive additional daylight. Furthermore, by decreasing the depth of the plan, natural cross ventilation can be induced.

I consider the north western area of the site to be the most private as it is adjacent to the barracks, away from the housing estate and the stray. Therefore, by separating a corner of the northern block, a portion of the northern public building offers protection from the main corridor. Again, natural daylight and ventilation is increased in the new private portion.

Separating the north west corner of the private block could form the Support Hub. Access could be provided through the barracks, although this may be difficult due to the security for both site. The support hub in this location is furthest away from any public, therefore offering security and stability that the visitors would seek to feel comfortable.

Public Focus

Course Accommodation

Dividing the northern block up as shown above creates the museum, shop and exhibition spaces, whilst the office block can be created, offering further protection to the accommodation and support hub. The areas face onto the Walmgate Stray enticing the public to enter, whilst maintaining a close relationship allowing an information point to direct the general public.

With the course accommodation likely to be the most used spaces within the project, they are housed within the southern block, split into quarters. Natural sunlight and ventilation will be in abundance. By creating a variety of external avenues, breakout spaces and meeting points can be incorporated into the landscaping. This will help to increase public participation as it will add an extra dimension for the public to engage with.

On the previous page I described how the scheme is likely to be resemble a village like arrangement. The sketches on this page show one possibility as to how this could be achieved on the site. It should be noted that this is a process and design principle that I aim to follow. The diagram shows an indicative layout based on the information I have accrued so far in the process - taking into account privacy, lighting, ventilation and size requirements. The public pedestrian entrance for the site (shown in red on the map opposite), is likely to be from Walmgate Stray, to the east of the site. The south westerly prevailing winds are indicated on the diagrams, with the barracks situated to the north-west. I describe the process above in the annotations and how the final concept idea is brought about. The final outcome allows for each space to represent a different expression, allowing the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fabric to emphasise and enhance itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s function. Page 80

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Concept

Concept Massing

Massing

If the buildings are all of differing height, this will have a dramatic effect on the daylighting and shading. The sketch above shows that some of the taller buildings may completely shade other buildings. Therefore, the heights of the buildings could further influence the layout of the scheme, as spaces which require artificial daylight could be these buildings to the north. Creating taller spaces will create dramatic effects on the building and can be used to help “protect” the private, possibly shorter, buildings. By keeping the windows at a uniform height, as shown in the sketch below, this shading effect is enhanced. REWORD

When the buildings remain at the same height, the amount of shading placed upon the surrounding buildings, will depend on its proximity. The closer the buildings are together, the more shading will be inflicted upon surrounding buildings; whereas a greater distance between buildings will allow for a greater amount of sunlight. However, by increasing the distance may mean that wind flow becomes an issue to contend with. In either case, the height of the windows can further REWORD

As described on the previous page, I intend the project to be split into a variety of buildings, each with it’s own function. Due to the large differences between functionality of the programme, it would not be feasible for each building to be the same floor area. This therefore leaves a couple of options, building-wise. Shown above are a variety of sized buildings with the same floor plan in each option; the difference being their height. In the left hand diagram, the buildings have a variety of heights, giving a greater sense of scale and difference to the scheme. On the right, the same height has been applied to all the structures, giving a reduced sense of drama and hierarchy. This may not be functional as some buildings, such as the gym, may benefit from having a higher ceiling than a bedroom for example, as the extra headroom will give an area for which warmer air can settle, without creating an uncomfortable internal environment.

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Concept

Concept Courtyards & Circulation

Courtyards & Circulation

The internal atmosphere of the buildings are obviously going to be a huge part of the projects, however I believe the external courtyards and circulation areas to be of great importance. Shown on this page are a series of study as to how the courtyards and circulation spaces could work.

Offsetting the buildings along the Y-Axis allows for inner courtyards to be defined as shown in the above sketch. This would allow for the residents / staff / public to congregate and interact with one another, one of the main ethosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of the scheme.

In the image shown above, the buildings are arranged in a linear fashion, allowing views through the entirety of the scheme. This allows for the buildings to arrange themselves in an efficient manner, allowing plenty of direct daylight and ventilation to affect all of the buildings. However, little consideration is given to courtyard areas, with there being no discernible meeting spaces.

Views throughout the scheme are maintained, allowing a clear view to potential exit points, something that many of the residents suffering with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder may always consider. However, by allowing the visitor to have a clear sight throughout the scheme, some of the drama and suspense of the project may dwindle, as opposed to turning a corner and finding a fascinating space. Furthermore, as a result of long, narrow passages, the site may suffer with a tunnelling effect of the wind, that could mean people wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enjoy being outside.

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In the above sketch, the concept buildings have been offset in both the X & Y- axis. This helps to break up the scheme, offering the chance for the inured soldiers to have a series of milestones to which they can reach,. Furthermore, defined meeting spaces can be created, as well as enabling greater control of daylight reaching a building, by the distance between them, as referred to previously. As discussed on the opposite page, by breaking up the scheme, this can have the effect of disrupting wind flow, allowing a more comfortable, serene environment. However, the buildings are still arranged in a linear fashion.

Finally, the concept would be to arrange the layout to allow the buildings in a seemingly random fashion, but actually offers a substantial amount of privacy from the surrounding buildings. Furthermore, the orientation of the buildings can assist in their internal climate. For example, buildings to the south are generally going to receive a greater amount of natural daylight, with the buildings to the north being able to be positioned such that the amount of shading, provided by other buildings, controls the amount f light they receive, as discussed previously. I believe this is more the route I will go down as it will create a greater atmosphere in the building and a more ore inspiring design. On the following page I will look at potential building shapes.

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Concept

Concept Courtyards & Circulation

Courtyards & Circulation

Triangles

Pentagons

Hexagons

Circles

In the above, linear form, the triangles appear regular and can easily be tessellated. The form can be as compact or open as desired. The lower, irregular pattern shows that paths are easily possible, however, inner courtyards may be difficult.

The pentagon form doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tessellate as easily as the triangles, and therefore can appear irregular even when arranged in a linear fashion. However, in both diagrams above, interesting courtyards are created with varying sizes.

Similar to the triangles, the hexagons are easily tessellated and can create really interesting forms. Clear paths subdivide the shapes and natural courtyards are created in the voids. Similarly, when arranged randomly, the layout prevents any direct lines of sight through the scheme.

An uncommon building form due to the difficulty in furnishing. Whilst courtyards can naturally infill the voids, the difficulty in the building shape discounts the circular building form.

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Principles

Principles Design

Design

Public / Private Spaces

Natural Daylighting / Ventilation

One of the most important aspects of the centre will be the division between public and private spaces, whilst giving the impression to the public that the rehabilitation centre is accessible to all. Materiality differences and construction techniques will be used to help differentiate between the spaces, as well as incorporating landscaping, possibly a water feature / stream to show the division lines.

Natural daylighting and ventilation always create a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere; being able to look out if the window and see greenery is considered to be beneficial to a persons well being. Furthermore, allowing the building to be cooled and lit by natural means, reduces the amount of energy required, and gives the occupants total control over their environment.

In the previous chapter, environmental principles were given as to how the building could work with its surrounding context. This page gives the design principles and how they are likely to impact the overall scheme.

Due to the nature of the building, ensuring that it is accessible and flexible are paramount. Level access to all of the buildings will help to ensure that disabled people can freely move around the site; whilst having the ability to adapt spaces to particular needs will enable the buildings to carry out a large number of activities.

Given the nature of the project, there are many significant and highly important considerations. The separation of public and private spaces were a key aspect provided by Help for Heroes, as they will be in my proposed scheme.

Over following pages, I will investigate a number of technologies that can help fulfil the final design principle, that being construction time frame. The local residents wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be very happy if there are large number of builders on site for a long period of In order to create a comfortable and pleasant internal environment, as well as a viable time. Therefore constructing the building in the shortest, but safest, possible amount business proposition, the sustainability factors of the project are going to be critical. of time will allow everyone to remain peaceful. Producing a design that is environmentally friendly, as well as being able to operate everyday tasks will be paramount. As well as being environmentally efficient, ensuring that the building is constructed using sustainable materials is another major issue. Designing and specifying a building that uses materials required from the other side of the planet is neither sustainable or beneficial to the economy. Page 88

Improving the health of those who Serve

Accessibility

Sustainability

Ensuring that the project is accessible to all is paramount in creating a successful scheme that can be enjoyed by everyone. Previous diagrams have been used to discuss key dimensions and considerations. The scheme however, does not want to be boring and so by challenging these soldiers in their movement around the buildings, looks to assist in their physical rehabilitation.

Any building should be designed with sustainability in mind for a variety of reasons. I believe that using locally sourced materials and construction teams will also help boost the local economy and help to give a sense of pride in the local area. Furthermore, using local people will help to spread the word of the centre and be great advertisement.

Construction Time frame

Flexibility

Completing the project as quickly and efficiently as possible will not only help to get the centre up and running providing a service to the residents quicker; it will also reduce the amount of disturbance on the local population.

One of the key requirements listed upon my visit to Phoenix House, was that of flexible spaces. They really liked having the ability to open up the meeting rooms to create one large open space, as this could then be used for a variety of events and activities, such as the fashion shows they support, or the Christmas parties.

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Precedence

Precedence Form

Form

Strong Sun

Evening / Morning Sun

Little Sun

To help protect from solar gain in strong sun, the “mashrabiya” will open out to shade the interior. Each panel can open and close individually allowing an incredible amount of precision.

With varying degrees of “open-ability” the “mashrabiya” can produce bespoke amounts of solar shading. As the sun is rising / setting, the “mashrabiya” will open slightly to allow greater amounts of direct sunlight in, reducing the need for artificial lighting.

During times of high winds or with little sun, the “mashrabiya” will fully open allowing the maximum amount of natural daylight in, solar gains to heat he internal environment and allowing the air to pass through the façade reducing the possibility of damage during high winds.

The effects of this system are comprehensive: reduced glare, improved daylight penetration, less reliance on artificial lighting, and over 50% reduction in solar gain, which results in a reduction of CO2 emissions by 1,750 tonnes per year.

The Al Bahar Towers in Abu Dhabi are some of the most striking sky scrapers around. Traditionally, the Middle East sky scrapers are designed without consideration for the harsh climate and environment. When designing the towers, Aedas took into account cultural and environmental considerations, to produce a façade that represents the Islamic culture, whilst also protecting from the strong solar gains.

The environmental impacts of the Al Bahr Towers are undeniable; as well as the reduce solar gains and shading, the towers also incorporate solar thermal panels for hot water heating. More than these technologies, the design was based around optimising the effectiveness of the solar shading. The design began with two simple cylinders, the circular plan giving the most efficient shape in terms of wall-to-floor area while also creating the greatest volume with the least surface area. The plan was then manipulated based on digital models and narrowed at the base and top. There are also several sky gardens, as can be seen in the image opposite, that help with ventilation.

The façade is designed to resemble the “mashrabiya” - a popular form of wooden lattice screen found in vernacular Islamic architecture and used as a device for achieving privacy. Aedas have used the motif to assist in the solar shading process and helps prevent solar gains. Each tower comprises of over 1, 000 individual shading, “umbrella” like, devices that are connected to the building management system. Constructed from PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) panels, a linear actuator will open and close the panels as per a pre-programmed device. In response to an overcast sky or high winds, the building is covered with additional sensors that open the panels. Page 90

Whilst my project will not be built in a similar environment or on a comparable scale, the principles are my main interest: designing a building where the “intelligent” structure assists in the environmental conditions; is developed based on its context and is overall a striking building. Improving the health of those who Serve

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Precedence

Precedence Form

Form

This scheme is of particular interest to my proposed project as it broken up into a campus type arrangement. Within the inner courtyards, public stalls and shops are integrated into the design. The diagrams shown in the centre of this page, highlight how the buildings could have been arranged in a very linear pattern. However, after angling the buildings to take advantage of views, and scaling the buildings for their required functions, a number of iterations were created, until the perfect plan was developed.

Winner of an international competition to design a new town hall in Tallinn, Estonia, were Danish architects, Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG). The winning design features a cluster of administrative buildings with large panoramic windows arranged around a public square, allowing citizens to see their representatives at work. As a two stage competition, BIG were able to incorporate all of the feedback from the first stage into their winning entry. The majority of this feedback focussed around how the local residents would interact with the buildings, a key consideration of the judges and client.

Whilst all the functions have their own spaces and areas, they share a common façade and style, connected at the corners so that the inhabitants aren’t required to leave the building. The roof plan is designed to create a sense of excitement and drama. Overall, I find this a fascinating design, with it’s form and idea of adjoining buildings a style to give a lot of consideration to. Investigations will now take place into various construction methods that could be implemented in the scheme, and may further inform the form.

In the new town hall of Tallinn the ceiling will be a real (reflected) overview of the city both old and new. Whenever a politician raises his/her glance, he/she will be met with the view of Tallinn’s townscape. In reverse, the citizens, rallying protesters or simply people passing by, will look towards the tower, and within it get an insight into the political work.

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embodied energy compared with other construction methods. Furthermore, due to the construction method, a service void is easily accommodated within the structure allowing for all services to be hidden away, yet easily accessible.

On previous pages investigations have been taken into precedent forms, however, as equally important is to investigate construction techniques and structural types. Constructed like a large, 3D jigsaw puzzle, the WikiHouse is a new type of Do-ItYourself housing. Effectively, the principle ethos of the WikiHouse is an â&#x20AC;&#x153;open source construction set.â&#x20AC;?

The principles of the WikiHouse are something that I truly admire, although the open source concept can be considered detrimental to the profession by some architects. As you can see, a plethora of designs are possible with any number of cladding systems available.

Although the WikiHouse is in itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prototyping stage, the concept and experimental houses are a huge success. Initially, the client would choose their blueprint and customise it as they wish. Once the design is finalised, the components are cut out using a CNC machine using locally sourced materials. This locally sourced materials concept is something that I wish to use. The components are then pieced together, leaving a finished house typically within a day.

However, there are a few limitations, namely the scale of the buildings. Despite my proposed scheme being broken down into smaller buildings, some of them are still considerably large. Through the research into WikiHouses, the main drawback is the span at which the system can work. This is unlikely to be used in the construction of my proposal as one of the key points was to provide large, flexible, open span space. Over upcoming pages, alternatives are given.

The precision manufacturing of the chassis makes it much easier to achieve very high levels of airtightness and insulation, resulting in a super low energy envelope. By using sustainably resourced and recycled materials, the system also has a much lower Page 94

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environmentally unfriendly. An additional disadvantage is the very linear space, with a low ceiling. Stacking multiple containers together, large clear span spaces area created, with the examples shown on this page showing that complex and aesthetically interesting projects are possible. However, there is a substantial lack of flexibility when utilising these containers, creating a very linear plan.

Gathering increasing popularity over recent years is the introduction of shipping container architecture. There are large numbers of empty shipping containers all over the world and these are now being used to create these fascinating structures. Shipping container architecture is considered to be a green alternative to traditional building materials, and seems like a smart choice for people looking for eco credentials. However, there are a lot of downsides to building with cargo containers. For instance, the coatings used to make the containers durable for ocean transport also happen to contain a number of harmful chemicals, such as chromate, phosphorous, and lead-based paints.

The main advantage of shipping container architecture is that projects can be created extremely quickly that are weatherproof, when shelter is quickly required and useful when resources are scarce. However, on a project such as the recovery centre, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe this construction method would be suitable for reasons listed on this page.

The containers can be used to quickly create a weatherproof structure, however significant work will need to be carried out internally to make the shell habitable. Structural openings need to be created for windows and doors, insulation and wall linings are required as well as many other finishes. Furthermore, a lot of hazardous waste is created during this process, with this compounded by the energy required to move the structures to their new location. This makes them extremely Page 96

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Materiality

Modular buildings are often thought of as the porta-cabin type buildings that litter school car parks for additional class rooms or temporary structures. However, as can be seen on this page, whilst this may be true, modular technologies have significantly progressed.

Designs are often based around a standard module size, which are then configured into a plethora of floor plans. Despite buildings being built around a module, walls do not necessarily need to be confined to the edge of a module, allowing for internal spaces to be divided as the user requires.

Many modular building companies now provide off-site construction systems and can be more structurally efficient than steel framed buildings. One manufacturer, Yorkon (based in York itself ), claim that 99.7% of their projects are delivered on time and budget, compared to the rest of the construction industry which only averages 75% on budget and 46% on time.

One of the main advantages of modular construction, and one that I have mentioned previously, is there are up to 90% fewer vehicle movements on site than on a traditional construction project â&#x20AC;&#x201C; reducing noise, dust, congestion and carbon emissions. Modular construction techniques are extremely beneficial when constructing multistorey buildings. However, as I plan for the majority of my scheme to be single storey, then the benefits or economy of scale are lost and therefore I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t consider modular building methods to be a viable construction technique for this scheme.

Off-site construction involves assembling complete buildings using individual steel-framed modules that are built in the factory under controlled conditions. The modules are fully fitted with all electrics, plumbing, heating and internal finishes before they leave the factory. This allows for the buildings to be constructed despite weather conditions, one of the main restricting factors to meeting construction deadlines. Page 98

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Due to the access constraints of the site, I believe a pre-fabricated system would be best for the construction of the scheme. As you can see on the diagram opposite, and from the previous research, access to the site is limited. Surrounded to the east by Walmgate Stray, the remaining site is protected by the Imphal Barracks and housing estates.

SIPs have the potential to be used on their own, creating their own frame in effect. They can be used in walls, floors and roofs. However, as with modular buildings, the outcome may be very rectilinear. However, as seen in the Brockhole Visitor Centre, SIPs were used in conjunction with a glulam frame. This gave additional support to the SIPs and therefore allowed a more bespoke finish.

Utilising a pre-fabricated system, disturbances to the local residents will be reduced as the major building work can be completed quicker, with fewer people on site and less heavy equipment. Modular type buildings would be another possibility, however they may produce a very linear type scheme, something I am not hoping for.

In order to create the larger spans necessary for the scheme, this hybrid method of SIPs with a structural frame could be used. This would then allow for the panels to be being fabricated, whilst the frame was being constructed, delivering a quicker construction time on site - one of the principles construction aims.

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are a pre-fabricated construction material comprising of two layers of structural board (i.e. plywood), sandwiching an insulating core, such as expanded polystyrene foam. Despite being initially more expensive to construct, these costs are often recouped during the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifetime due to their environmental properties. Page 100

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Materiality

Comparisons

WikiHouse

Shipping Container Architecture

Modular

SIPs

Cost effective as costs are limited to materials and CNC machine rental.

Weather tight buildings can be quickly produced as the skin is inherent within the structure; allowing internal trades to start early. A lot of time can be spent however preparing the containers and making them habitable.

Off-site construction is inherently sustainable, and modular construction has been developed to reduce environmental impacts. Typically 94% of materials used to manufacture the buildings are recycled. Furthermore, Insulation material used in wall and roof panels contains no HCFCs and has an ozone-depletion potential of zero – to help protect the environment.

Similar to modular construction, SIPs offer incredible flexibility, as they are essentially a timber frame construction, without the timber.

Incredibly flexible as pieces can be designed as the user wants. Any number of floor plans and elevation treatments are available as pieces simply slip together. Little waste is created as a number of pieces are cut out from a single sheet, with computer technology able to determine the optimum position of each piece on the sheet prior to cutting. Production can often be laborious and time consuming waiting for the pieces to be cut, before assembling like a giant jigsaw. This may mean that it could take a long time for the building to be weather tight, which could damage the material.

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Lacking in flexibility as the designs have to conform to the module size of the container. To ensure durability and protection from oceanic weather, containers are treated with coatings that contain a number of harmful chemicals, such as chromate, phosphorous, and lead-based paints. Moreover, wood floors that line the majority of shipping container buildings are infused with hazardous chemical pesticides like arsenic and chromium to keep pests away. The average container eventually produces nearly a thousand pounds of hazardous waste before it can be used as a structure. All of this, coupled with the fossil fuels required to move the container into place with heavy machinery, contribute significantly to its ecological footprint.

Despite the structure being built on a module, the concepts have incredible flexibility, even after the construction is finished, as internal walls can be easily moved, off the module. Produced off site, modular construction is incredibly fast, with nearly 100% of projects being built on time. Buildings can be completed up to 50% faster than using traditional site-based construction method. Furthermore, noise pollution on site is kept to a minimum, as the majority of major construction is off site. Off site manufacturing allows for the components to be built in factory controlled settings, ensuring that quality control is kept to strict standards. Furthermore, projects are not affected by weather, until the crane lift into position.

The erection of the panels is estimated to be as much as 3 times faster than traditional framing, ensuring the projects are completed quickly. SIPs panels are around 10–15% more expensive than conventional timber frame, but as the frame accounts for perhaps 30–40% of the overall budget, its total impact is 3–5%. Although, due to their energy performance, they will soon begin to recoup these initial higher costs. Produced in the factory, the panels are pre-engineered and produced in a controlled environment meaning waste is kept to a minimum.

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Concept Chapter Conclusion

A lot of information has been discussed in this chapter, including basic design forms and possible construction techniques. Based on past precedent, a detailed schedule of accommodation was produced, which was then analysed against various environmental and relationship qualities. Following this review, I came to the decision to divide the scheme into several buildings based on the activities being conducted within. Creating a village typology, a larger proportion of the buildings can be flooded with natural daylight and ventilation. Describing the design principles of the scheme, privacy, sustainability and flexibility were noted as key. Accessibility will be another feature of the scheme, to ensure that it can be enjoyed by all. At the end of the chapter, comparisons were drawn between the various construction techniques described in the chapter. They all have their own advantages, however I believe that a hybrid of SIPs and a structural frame will be used. This is because it incorporates many of the principles described previously - it can be quickly constructed, is able to produce large spans and is highly flexible. A credible alternative would have been modular construction. Modular construction profits from having many of the advantages of SIPs, as well as being relatively quiet to install and construct. There is the added advantage that there is a modular construction company within York. However, there is one fundamental design issue. Due to them being modular, the overall aesthetic of the construction is limited and would appear very rectangular.

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Technologies Chapter Introduction

In the previous chapter I discussed the programme and the various relationships, environmental and ergonomic considerations and a proposed construction technique. Within this chapter, I shall investigate a variety of forms and the construction technologies typified by the army. I have always been inspired by the ancient art form of origami and this exemplifies the philosophy of military structure - lightweight, flexible and quick to construct. Research into the military tent structures leads to the development of a hybrid construction technique, that I believe would be perfect for the accommodation buildings construction method. Previously, discussions have taken place to differentiate between the public and private spaces through the use of materiality and I believe this can now extend to construction techniques. The SIPs hybrid would be used on the public buildings, a quick to construct technique that allows for large clear spans; and the heavyweight method detailed within this chapter to be used for the accommodation buildings offering a heavily insulated structure and sense of security. The following chapter then focuses on the design of the building, utilising the two construction methods and will discuss a variety of design features to be incorporated.

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Concept

Concept Origami Studies

Origami Studies

During concept designs, it is important to consider not only the plan, but the overall aesthetics of the building. For several years I have been fascinated by the ancient art of origami and believe it is a perfect art form to inspire a buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s form. Later in this chapter, I will investigate the materiality and construction techniques employed by the British Army when in the battlefield and I believe that origami will typify their ethos. Origami has the ability to form a 3D shape from a flat piece of paper and is one of the main reasons why I find the techniques so intriguing. Through a variety of intricate folds, a series of shapes can take place as is shown. Many of the models shown give the sense of movement, with many of them possessing the ability to be manipulated to form different shapes, without too much effort.

from flat plane, and adaptability, I aim to use these forms to influence my design. Over the next few pages are a series of images of models I have produced, showing a variety of folding techniques. The wide ranging folding techniques show how simple or complicated you can make the designs, the variety of forms available and the types of canopies / structures that can be produced. Following this, I will explore the types of structures utilised by the forces.

The aim for the architectural style of the scheme is to be as striking as possible, providing shelter and a sense of safety where required, whilst openness and freedom will be required in other areas. Canopies are easily created and I believe create an impressive space. Incorporating the ethos of origami - flexibility, ability to create 3D Page 108

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Technologies

Technologies Prosthetics

Prosthetics

Bluetooth

RE-NET

In 2007, Marine Lance Cpl. Joshua Bleill received two artificial legs each fitted with Bluetooth devices. Bluetooth is more often recognised for its ability to connect pieces of technology together without the use of wires. In Bleill’s case, the Bluetooth devices communicate with each other to regulate stride, pressure and speed in the prosthetic legs.

Reliable Neuro-Interface Technology (RE-NET) is the technology and research that allows the signals sent from the body’s existing muscles and nerves to control the new prosthetic limb. The USA Defence Department Agency has been researching the technology since 2009 and is reminiscent of the fact that medical advances are often borne from military interventions.

BeBionic

APL Module Arm

The BeBionic prosthetic arm is one of the most advanced arms on the market today. It places sensors on the skin which, in conjunction with microprocessors in the arm itself, detect muscle movement from the remaining portion of the biological arm and translate patterns of movements into 14 different grips. This range of grips allows the user to grip a pen, type on a keyboard, hold keys and other tasks or camouflage.

Developed by the Defence Department Agency the APL Module Arm is another product brought about due to military incidents. The APL arm utilises technology that recognises signals sent by the brain to the amputated limb, to allow the prosthetic arm to move every joint independently.

Military interventions often lead to new medical advances which has been the case for centuries. Prosthetics technology is no different. The Defence Department Agency in the USA have been at the forefront of prosthetic technology for many years and have produced many prosthetic limbs, including a couple shown opposite. Furthermore, they have been developing exo suits. These suits are designed to assist the human body and can allow a person previously confined to a wheel chair, to walk again. However, the military are using them to create an “Iron Man” type suit, enabling soldiers to perform super-human feats - lifting more, running faster and jumping further for example. Many of the residents and military visitors coming to the scheme will have a prosthetic limb, therefore by using technologies that are borne from prosthetics, the injured will be able to see how technologically advanced their prosthetics are. Possible uses for the prosthetics technology could be the moving of walls to create open spaces, or the opening of doors. On the following page, military construction techniques are analysed. Page 114

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Precedent

Precedent Materiality

Materiality

Considerations thus far, has been given to construction technologies most common in the civilian construction industry. In the armed forces, buildings are often temporary and lightweight to allow them to be easily transportable and quick to construct. The images on this page highlight this. Tent structures are a favourite of the British Forces as they can quickly provide a large sheltered space with the added advantage of being flexible and quick to build. These are principles, similar to those that underpin this scheme and that of the origami discussed previously. Whilst these buildings are perfect for temporary structures, they are not so useful in constructing a permanent building. In the mantra of the Abstract Machines design studio, this technology will need to be adapted and â&#x20AC;&#x153;hackedâ&#x20AC;? in order to allow it to construct a permanent building.

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Materiality

Materiality Origami Studies

Origami Studies

When looking through the current army construction methods, the primary aspect is that of lightweight and flexible. I decided to create a series of origami models that portray the armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s principles. The models shown on this and subsequent pages show how it is possible to take a flat sheet and turn it into quite a large span. These spans can then be consolidated into manageable forms that can be easily transported. It is this sense of flexibility that I want to run throughout the scheme. It is relatively easy to clad a building with a skin shaped as if formed by origami, but it is a different challenge, and one I aim to pursue, to use origami as the driving force and to instil a flexible, moving building. This would allow the charity to expand or decrease the amount of area based on their current requirements. Over the next few pages, the models depict the spans and spaces that can be created,which when combined with the previously shown technologies, can produce a remarkable space. Page 118

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Materiality

Materiality Origami Studies

Origami Studies

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Materiality Origami Studies

Origami Studies

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Materiality

Although originally designed to be used as flood control, the HESCO barriers are now common place in many military locations. They are used to create incredibly dense shields to protects barracks. In the images on this page, you can see how incredibly simple they are to construct. They come to site completely flat packed, allowing large numbers to be easily transported. Then positioned, they are opened before being filled with the dirt and earth surrounding them. This is incredibly useful as they can then be used in a sort of â&#x20AC;&#x153;cut and fillâ&#x20AC;? exercise i.e. the dirt and earth from underneath them can be used to fill them, effectively sinking the structure slightly into the ground, to give it even greater strength. Once these barriers have then be used, they can be emptied and transported to their new site. This type of technology is incredibly simple and easy to use; whilst also being flexible. I hope to use some form of this technology in order to construct the accommodation buildings. Page 124

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The HESCO barriers are reminiscent of the rammed earth building technique used for centuries. The construction method appears to be making somewhat of a revival as it has many benefits, similar to that of the HESCO barriers. The main positives of rammed earth are the incredible amount of thermal mass. This helps keep the building warm when the external temperature is cooler, and vice versa. This is important for any project, the added benefits to my scheme is that the rammed earth gives great sound insulation. One of the primary concerns of the Help for Heroes precedence was to make the occupants feel safe, reducing any loud noises which have the potential to disturb and cause them anxiety. Shown on this page are a number of buildings that have been constructed using the rammed earth technique. The interesting aspect is how the images opposite have dealt with opening. They have used the rammed earth as the base and the foundations, before creating clerestory windows to sit above, with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;floatingâ&#x20AC;? box on top. Page 126

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HESCO

HESCO Technologies

Technologies

Protection

Day Time Thermal Mass

Cooler / Night Time Thermal Mass

Utilising the HESCO technology would have substantial environmental benefits, as well as intangible positives. Firstly, due to the depth of the structure, the walls would be extremely thick, giving a great sense of privacy and protection; ideal for use in the support hub and accommodation where security is vital. Furthermore, the depth would give great sound insulation, as well as protection from the wind; crucial from the cooler, northerly wind.

Under Ground Plenum Ventilation

Trombe wall technology has been around for decades and would work well in conjunction with the HESCO barrier. Trombe walls, a passive solar design, work by an over projecting roof protecting the glass external layer from the summer sun, whilst allowing the cooler, winter sun to prevail. The sun then heats the heat capacity layer (in this instance the HESCO barrier) and uses the thermal mass of this layer to regulate the internal temperature. This would then regulate the internal temperature of the buildings, helping to keep them cool during the day, and warm during the night, assisting in reducing energy bills.

Ground Source Heat Pump

The ground source heat pump works in a similar fashion to the plenum, however is water based. Traditionally, pipes would be dug under ground, either shallow and far reaching, or deep and requiring less space with water piped through. The water is then heated due to the constant underground temperature, before being used to heat the buildings. I believe a possible adaptation to this would be to have the pipes running through the centre of the HESCO structure due to the thickness of the wall.

The diagrams on this page help to show how the structure can be utilised to assist in the environmental operations of the building. This is incredibly useful as it shows The underground plenum is a technique I have seen used in a relatively small number that structure and environmental considerations need to be thought about as a partnership, and not individually. On the following page, I show another use of the of buildings, but is a technology with great benefits. Using thermal currents, cooler HESCO technology. air enters the building, through the underground plenum and is then regulated by the constant ground temperature. This means that it will either be heated or cooled, depending on the external temperature, before being exhausted into the internal environment. As this air then mixes and heats up further, the warmer air rises and exits through the high level vents and grilles. This type of technology requires very little mechanical interaction and so is relatively cheap and easy to maintain.

In addition, the thickness of the barriers would behave similarly to that of a concrete structure, and posses a great deal of thermal mass. This would have the effect of keeping the internal environment cooler when the external temperature is warm, as it absorbs the heat; before releasing the heat slowly during the evening or when the internal temperature is colder. This passive regulation will greatly reduce the amount of subsidiary heating required. As well as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inherited benefits, the HESCO technology has the potential to be combined with existing technologies to produce even greater sustainability results, shown opposite. Page 128

Trombe Wall

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HESCO

HESCO Technologies

Technologies

USING HESCO TO CREATE A GRID FOR CLIMBING WALLS?

As well as having the ability to have a variety of claddings attached to the exterior, the interior could be used to attach items to as well. In effect, the entire internal grid could be used to become a giant rock climbing wall, to create a truly flexible internal environment. The rock climbing wall could be used as an alternative to stairs to allow able bodied members navigate their way around the buildings, giving them the opportunity to witness a multitude of views. Furthermore, objects, such as hammocks or canopies can be hung from the structure; as well as internal walls, to allow the users to create their own desired space. On the following pages I investigate how the HESCO technology can be developed to form a building component. USING HESCO TO CREATE A GRID FOR CLIMBING WALLS?

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HESCO

HESCO Concept Development

Concept Development

The HESCO technology uses the most efficient shape in order to create a solid building block, whilst maintaining its main advantage of being able to fold flat. Once the cage has then been in-filled, the container can’t take any other form.

When developing the HESCO technology based on the previous origami studies, the origami’s principles of being created from a flat sheet begin to resurface. As the structure begins to fill, the cage will expand due to the forces being applied. This will cause the structure to flatten out, as shown in the diagram in the top left.

Developing this concept, it would be possible to introduce the origami studies conducted previously to create a new type of building block. The HESCO barriers work efficiently as, when they are filled up, the infill pushes the boundaries to their limits, as seen in the left hand diagram. The central diagrams show the shapes that aren’t possible, even when over filling and with forces applied, as the earth finds the optimum shape.

One way to combat this would be to use a piston type mechanism. Positioned as shown in the diagram opposite and above, the piston would resist the forces wanting to flatten the structure out; forcing the structure to remain in it’s shape. This technology though would be placing huge amount of stress onto the piston, and if this was to fail, could cause significant system failure.

The traditional HESCO construction method uses earth to fill up the baskets. However, in order to maintain the faceted form, it may be preferable to use the technology as a form-work for concrete. Over the next few pages, I will investigate the benefits of both construction techniques.

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Over the next few pages, this technology is to be developed and experimented further. At present, I believe that the technology would be better placed to be used as a form-work, due to the mechanics required in order to achieve the desired appearance of the technology when filled with earth.

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HESCO

HESCO Concept Development

Concept Development

To avoid using a piston type technology, an alternative would be to use a curved system as diagrammed above. With the internal circumference smaller than that of the external, the system doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t possess the capabilities to unfold. Instead, the forces acting on the circumferences imposed by the pressure from the load, will be in equilibrium and therefore negate each other.

The HESCO technology has been utilised as building blocks, effectively creating huge, earth filled cages, that stack on top of one another like bricks. Developing on from the plans shown above, the opposite diagrams highlight how the building blocks could be created and visualised. These building blocks can then be used to start to define a boundary and begin building a wall.

This concept can progress into the central diagram, which thickens out the bases, in a similar fashion to that of a buttress. This will allow more of the forces to pass through the base, if the structure was to be used as a span. This technology would be useful for creating long tunnels and similar, but may be difficult for openings to be cut in.

Whilst these shapes are beginning to form interesting building blocks, the current diagrams show the technology being filled with earth. However, once clad, the intelligence of the system will be lost to the visitors, as they may perceive it as just another wall. Therefore, I believe that the concrete will be the direction to take, as it also allows for the form work to be used multiple times.

The right hand diagram shows that the concept of the smaller and larger circumference can be progressed into a more elaborate curve. The same principles will apply that the two circumferences will work against each other to equal out. These forms can either be used to create building blocks, similar to that of the standard HESCO barriers, or developed into creating larger spans. Page 134

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HESCO

HESCO Concept Development

Concept Development

As can be seen in the diagrams and the model above and previous pages, the traditional HESCO technology does not work efficiently when using single folding panels. The centre diagram and the image of the model, highlight how the system creases and fails along the corners. This is because the corner canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fold in two directions. As you can see overleaf, by applying the principles learnt in the origami studies, the way to create the folds is by applying triangles and tessellating the shapes. By inducing the fold using these triangles, the corners are able to fold in on themselves, thus allowing the shape to fold flat. This now starts to show how the form work for the concrete can be created in order to give the faceted and panelled appearance. If desired, the system can be easily adapted to be filled with earth, however this would lose some aesthetic appeal in my opinion.

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HESCO

HESCO Concept Development

Concept Development

The diagrams above show the folding patterns applied to the models shown on the opposite page. They are all based on creating the same fold line, as indicated by the grey dotted line, but with the extent of the fold increased.

the concertina effect. This produces a far more stable system, that would be able to withstand lateral forces. Furthermore, the overall length is far shorter, allowing for easier transportation.

The left hand pattern uses the HESCO system shown in the previous model and highlights why the system fails when you base the cage on a curve. As described previously, this system begins to fail when it attempts to fold in on itself.

As you can see, the system can be manipulated in a variety of simple ways in order to produce a vast array of different shapes. In terms of creating a building block using the HESCO cage, I believe the technique of using the smaller triangles would be the better option. This is because it creates a more stable base. On pages 148-149 , models have been created to show how this form could work as a building block.

The centre image creates a series of triangles with their corners being dictated by the proposed corner lines (dotted grey). As can be seen in the model opposite, this creates a long, drawn out curve and when tested, appeared to be quite fragile as it was tall and slender in depth. This would pose problems if it was used in construction as it would find it difficult to cope with any imposed lateral loadings such as a wind force.

The basic principles of these folding techniques can now be applied and tested on any number of shapes to determine their success. So far I have only tested against a curve in one direction, however on subsequent pages a range of models are created to analyse their effectiveness at being used as a building block.

Utilising smaller triangles, from an offset off the grey line, a more pronounced curve is produced. The directions of the triangles mirrors on each line, therefore allowing Page 138

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HESCO

HESCO Concept Development

Concept Development

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HESCO

HESCO Concept Development

Concept Development

Over the next few pages are a number of iterations that provide evidence of how differing the folding patterns and spacing can generate a large number of iterations of the HESCO cage.

environments, ensuring that the concrete fully fills the form work, that could have lead to structural failures if not constructed properly. Furthermore, in line with the SIPS, it will allow for quicker and easier erection of the buildings on site.

As discussed previously, the origami principles have only applied to a single curve in current development models. This series of models concentrates on creating multiple curves, as well as differing the spacing between the folds to investigate their differences and properties.

The final pages of this chapter show physical models of how the HESCO technology could be constructed and built. I will explore how the â&#x20AC;&#x153;form workâ&#x20AC;? holds the material, the shapes and openings that are possible in order to develop the concept further, later in this workbook.

A diagram is provided with each that depicts the folding pattern. As you can see, some intricate curves are easily defined using this form and can easily be modified in order to create a form work for the concrete. I believe I have learnt a lot in this chapter, however the decision now needs to be made whether to use an in-situ or pre-cast concrete panel on the building. Both have their merits, however I believe that it would be more beneficial to use a precast system. This is because it will allow for the panels to be created in controlled Page 144

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Technologies Chapter Conclusion

A definitive building technology has been developed and detailed within this chapter. The structure has been heavily influenced by the traditional military construction materials and principles - that being lightweight, quick to build and easy to transport. The origami HESCO system allows for a number of different iterations to be created, with almost any curve possible to be built using the building blocks of the cages, with it now being down to the design and plan as to how these blocks will be arranged. The technique encourages the residents and occupants to engage with the building process, giving them the opportunity to help construct the building, as well as assisting in its maintenance and upkeep. In addition to the positive attributes of the technique described above, the thick walls have even more benefits. Effectively acting as a large radiator, the earth will provide a huge amount of thermal mass, helping to protect the occupants from the cool, northerly wind; whilst in the summer months the structure will absorb the sunâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heat, keeping the internals cool, before exhausting the stored heat during the evenings helping to regulate the internal conditions. Whilst the cage allows for any number of cladding techniques to be used externally, the internal lends itself to being used in a number of ways. The favoured concept is to create an indoor climbing wall type arrangement, whereby the residents will be able to climb around the building, assisting in their physical rehabilitation process, whilst providing an engaging and fun environment.

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Experience Chapter Introduction

Having looked at the concept information and derived design, structural and environmental strategies, I will now begin to develop this information into a succinct design. The vast majority of the information provided so far has looked into how the building can be constructed, and the type of conditions the internal environment requires in order to make it comfortable. In this chapter, I want to investigate ways in which the design can be used to create a memorable and fun place for the residents and the visitors to come to. Whilst the buildings have to be usable and accessible to all, I believe that they can also be enjoyable. I have previously discussed how the buildings will be arranged into a village typology, and so by varying the levels on which these buildings sit, and their relationships with one another, a unique and exciting experience is created. Within this chapter, key design principles for significant spaces will be given. These significant spaces are the areas where I feel that the majority of resident and visitor time will be spent: Sports complex, Accommodation, Support Hub, Museum and the Break out / Socialising space. Whilst the other areas should not and will not be thought about as an after statement, the way in which these buildings function is paramount in order to achieve a successful scheme. By the end of the chapter, I aim to have in place a set of design principles with which to work to, so that I can begin to develop the building proposals. Whilst a lot of this has already been considered at a high level, the next level of detail is required to push the project forward.

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Activities

Activities Lifestyle

Lifestyle

I believe this project has the potential to be a fantastic scheme and will revolve around the success of a number of key spaces. The scheme can be broken down into several key areas: Sports complex, Accommodation, Support Hub, Museum and the Break out / Socialising space. A soldierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifestyle is often very fast paced and full of outgoing activities. The assumption is that once they are injured, these activities will be difficult, but I believe that there are not the facilities in place to assist. If the activity element could in some way be incorporated into the scheme, it will hopefully give a sense of familiarity and helping to allow the residents to engage with the building. I discussed previously how a rock climbing wall could be attached to the HESCO system and it is this same type of thinking that I believe can be used in the plan and layout of the scheme. Arranging the buildings at various levels, allows for ramps to be used. Whilst this may seem relatively simple if the ramps are simply used as a device to get from one level to another, but used in a unique way starts to create a different way of getting around the site. Page 152

Furthermore, the scheme will be split into a variety of buildings depending upon that buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s use. Therefore, outdoor circulation spaces are going to be key. The precedence on the following page shows how the roof structure is used to appear as though it is coming out from the ground, allowing the external walls to be set back as well as creating a covered walkway. The sports complex is one such area which needs to be designed with enjoyment and physical rehabilitation in mind. Whilst there will be the machines and equipment to help, if small steps or similar can be incorporated, then the building itself begins to help the soldiers. I have often discussed the need to ensure that the residents at the scheme feel safe and secure, non more so than when they are in their bedrooms. Although the residents will be encouraged to interact during the day, their bedrooms can be seen as their safe space, and a place in which to retire to. If the bedrooms were overlooked by passers by, or the public, this secure feeling will be lost. Therefore, it is essential that the bedroom accommodation is not overlooked. Improving the health of those who Serve

The Support Hub is another key area which requires total privacy and protection. I have previously discussed how I believe that this should be located adjacent to the Imphal Barracks to allow it to have its own separate entrance. At the opposite side of the side will be the museum and welcoming area for the visitors, looking out onto the Walmgate Stray. The museum will therefore need to make a bold statement in order to draw in visitors and entice them to have a look within. The socialising and break out spaces will be a key component of the design in both the public and private spaces. Whilst I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want them to be a separate area, such as a dedicated room, I want them to blend in seamlessly with the circulation space, each taking on their own persona, to allow them to be used as a way-finding point.

their own courtyard; an external space for residents to relax in is a must, as well as having outdoor space for the public. Water features should be included as water can help in the rehabilitation process. And by incorporating a stream through the site, this can act as a physical barrier between the public and private areas. There is a lot to consider and evaluate, however if these design features are incorporated successfully then I believe a fascinating space and scheme can be achieved. On the following pages are a number of design precedence and principles that I aim to emulate and include.

Finally, landscaping. I believe that the landscaping of the scheme will play almost as important a role as the buildings themselves. Courtyards are going to have a big influence on the design. As I have mentioned, the bedrooms should all look out onto Improving the health of those who Serve

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Precedence

Sports Complex

building offers great environmental advantages.

Located in Rome, Italy the Olgiata Sporting Club offers a 7,500m sq. gym and indoor swimming pool. The building is made up of three different pavilions connected to each other. The central one is the administrative centre and contains the entrance, where the main staircase and the connections are. Through it the visitor can access the locker rooms at the lower level and then the two pavilions.

The glulam structure is great for creating the large spans that would be required for the scheme, and I believe would be able to form the frame for the SIPs. Furthermore, it is a fantastic material in order to express curves, as has been used here on the sporting club. However, despite glulam initially being less expensive than steel, the long term maintenance gives it a greater long term cost. Furthermore, glulam is significantly heavier than steel, and so with the additional environmental loads, the structure would be come extremely heavy. Therefore, alternative frame techniques will need to be investigated.

The glulam beams used to construct the buildings are one of my favourite aspects of the buildings. The beams run throughout the building and are expressed both internally and externally. They provide a large, open plan, clear space, perfect for use as a gym and swimming pool structure. There are no discernible roof and walls in the building, rather one fluid set of curves. By extending these curves to the floor and the external walls set in from the perimeter, external corridors are created. Whilst providing a pleasant external space, they also provide additional shading to the internal spaces - a major priority in Italy, whilst not so much in York.. The large overhang provides huge amounts of discreet shading, a concept I hope to employ - the concept being that the design of the Page 154

On the following page I discuss the principles associated with the sports complex.

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Principles

Principles Sports Complex

Sports Complex

The Sports Complex aims to be one of the focal points of the scheme. It needs to be quite a public space, as it plans to be one of the main links between the injured soldiers and the public, whilst offering some private gym space should there be a requirement for it from individual residents.

An important consideration for any scheme is access around the building, with ramps being the traditional way of allowing disabled occupants to travel around. The concept of this scheme is to take the ramp further though and incorporate the ramp in a different way.

Flexibility will be a priority for the sport centre. Its primary function will be that of a gym, requiring lots of natural daylight and ventilation, although protected from solar gains. However, as the space will be largely open plan, functions and events will be held in the space, aiming to generate income for the charities.

As opposed to the ramp running alongside some stairs, or around the periphery of the floor plan, the ramp would instead become a feature that slinks and winds its way around, that can cross over the top of itself. Regulations stipulate the incline and length of ramp and landings permissible, which these concepts comply with, however I believe that it can be taken further. Incorporating a skate park-like flooring. This will need to be carefully designed to ensure that it complies with the Approved Documents. This type of arena will give a great workout to the wheelchair user, whilst creating an element of fun.

Due to the nature of the sports centres use, accessibility is paramount. Level thresholds will be incorporated throughout the scheme; however I plan to introduce an element of fun in the scheme. This will be through the use of the rock climbing walls described earlier and the undulating floor levels. Wheelchair users may often feel neglected in gyms; but by building an almost skate park like flooring, the residents will hopefully be able to enjoy themselves. Page 156

different levels, allowing the occupants to experience the space from a number of angles. Over the next few pages, the ramp concept is developed further, culminating in physical models being produced to physically test the idea.

Another way to achieve the skate park idea would be through a series of ramps. Furthermore, this would allow for the users to easily travel between a series of Improving the health of those who Serve

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Ramp Access

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Concept Ramp Access

Ramp Access

By developing the ramp concept into several different levels, the sense of space, I believe, takes on a sense of grandeur. In the diagram above there is one central, long ramp to lift you up 500mm. From this level, smaller ramps lead you up onto a variety of levels that can be used for a multitude of things.

Above is an alternative iteration of the ramp concept. As opposed to the opposite design with a central first ramp, the above designs first ramp is located to the side, allowing a maze of ramps to then circulate around the floor space. I like this design as it gives the impression of the skate park and the plan feels more integrated. By this I mean that on the previous iteration, the ground floor appears disjointed from the ramp system, whereas the above design, the ramps and ground floor appear succinct.

On the concept plan above, I like that the majority of the floor spaces, have a number of ramps leading to different usable areas. In the diagram above, the overall height difference isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sufficient enough for the areas under the raised floors to be occupied by pedestrians. Under the upper floors however, are accessible to wheelchair users, meaning that these areas could be bespoke to them.

Due to the expanse of space required in order to achieve these ramps, the concept may not be viable in a single building. However, the change in floor levels could be feasible across multiple buildings. This is a concept which will need to be developed further when the master planning has been further designed and building levels can be assessed.

This is a really interesting concept, although one that would need to be carefully considered as it could be seen as discriminating against users who perhaps couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use the bespoke areas.

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On the following pages, a series 1:20 scale model are shown that helps to show how the space could work. In order to comply with British Building Regulations, the ramps arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t too steep, as can be seen in the images, however the change in height from top to bottom is quite significant. As mentioned previously, the floor space required for internal ramps is quite large, therefore external ramps and change in levels may be preferable. Page 161

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Ramp Access

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Precedence

Precedence Accommodation

Accommodation

The Belmont Community Rehabilitation Centre in Victoria, Australia, offers an active, goal-focused rehabilitation programme in a residential setting. The accommodation is adjoined to the local health centre and focuses on preventing further disability by supporting clients to reduce the chance of relapses and improve their well-being.

The interesting features of this project are that despite it being a rehabilitation centre, it offers an extremely familiar and welcoming atmosphere. In the image (top right), I love how a surround is used to the window, that not only protects from solar gain; but provides privacy from onlookers. This technique is echoed in the image (top left) where the window is set back from the main façade along he faceted elevation. Whilst not offering much shelter from the sun, the eye is drawn along the angles of the building.

Located on a prominent corner, the building form and materiality seek to engage with the surroundings. White cypress timber was selected as the primary façade material due to its sustainability, inherent warmth and natural appeal. The façade is articulated with recessed self-shading windows to the street elevations, and expressed sunshades to the windows to the garden areas.

It is this concept that I want to explore in upcoming pages - that being the angle of windows and views out from the bedroom accommodation. I believe it will be important for the bedrooms to all look out onto greenery and landscaping, possibly to their own private courtyard. This will ensure that the residents feel as comfortable and secure in their bedroom as possible.

The strong motif of glass and timber showcases the timber’s natural grain and colour, expressing the form and design of the façade and creates a non-institutional and engaging building, easy to construct and maintain.

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Principles Accommodation

Accommodation

Traditional Window

Bay Window

Angled Window

The most common window is the one shown above, flat into the wall. The main benefit of this style of window is that it can be easily installed and manufactured. Furthermore, it allows plenty of natural day light in. However, as the diagram shows, it is easy for the occupant to look out in all directions and their eyes are not really drawn in one way.

The bay window shown above has a great advantage over the traditional window in that it directs the eyes out in either direction. This is the concept I was looking to achieve and believe that this style window helps in that. Furthermore, the bay windows could house a window seat which would be a nice and homely addition to the bedrooms. However, bay windows are more expensive and reduce the amount of direct sunlight entering the room.

A comparison of the two windows shown opposite is to angle the wall and place a traditional window in. This would be slightly harder to construct and so would need to be carefully considered in the detailed design stage. The great advantage is that the eye is automatically drawn in one direction and would be impossible to look into another bedroom, as would be possible with the bay window. However, again the amount of natural daylight entering the room is reduced.

The accommodation for the scheme is required to be one of the most private and secluded areas achievable. Consisting of 40 bedrooms, the bedrooms need to be somewhere that the residents will feel safe; however such that the occupants will congregate and socialise in recreational areas as opposed to hiding away in their bedrooms; Therefore a social aspect will be equally important.

Although I have previously stated that the scheme aims to be single storey, in order to preserve site area, I think it may be beneficial to house the accommodation over two storeys. Part M of the Approved Documents requires that each floor must have the same provisions. Building around a courtyard would provide a secluded outdoor space that is accessible for all the occupants. Outdoor space is an important factor in aiding recovery and will provide the residents with their own, secluded, external space. This further integrates with the angled windows as discussed previously. As shown and analysed above, all of the windows have their benefits and disadvantages, however I believe they will need to be considered and evaluated in the design of the building.

The aim of the accommodation is to be as familiar and homely as possible, therefore I propose that the bedrooms be built from a common construction method as analysed in the Concept chapter, such as SIPs. If built on a human scale, this aims to help make the residents feel welcome, secure and comfortable. However, despite the construction method being common, I believe that interest can be added to the plan. As seen in the Belmont rehabilitation centre shown on the previous page, subtle design features can be included to give a sense of privacy. Design features such as the facade being angled draws the occupants eyes away, however, I believe this can be developed further, as shown in the diagrams above. Page 168

Over subsequent pages, these ideas and concepts will be developed further to create a sense of what the accommodation buildings could look like.

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Programme

Programme Accommodation

Accommodation

As can be seen on the graphic above, the number of bedrooms appears to be put into context. With such a large number of bedrooms, with little other programme to break up the spaces, the layout lends itself to the long corridor shown opposite. However, I believe that these bedroom numbers can be split up into effectively, different departments, therefore reducing the amount of circulation space required and neglecting the need for the long corridors. This concept is discussed and developed in the following pages.

As you can see in the floor plans shown above, the bedrooms at Help for Heroes’ Phoenix House, Catterick - the precedent described in previous chapters - the bedrooms are arranged along a narrow corridor, stacked one above another, in a very hospital like and simplistic manner. I will not be using this layout as a driver for my scheme, however I will utilise the space arrangements for the individual bedrooms as I believe this to be a very efficient use of the area. Therefore, the bedrooms at the York scheme will work out at about 20m2 with a 5m2 en-suite. This equates to approximately 4m x 6.25m (internal face dimensions) rectangles. The bedroom accommodation building also needs to include space for a small office and over night stay room for staff (approximately 28m2), a communal kitchen and dining room (55m2) and a common room of around 50m2 . The scheme aims to accommodate 36 single bedrooms, as well as 4 family bedrooms. Shown opposite are possible relationships.

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Furthermore, due to the potentially large number of residents staying within the scheme, I believe it would be better to have two kitchen areas and two “formal” common rooms. I say “formal” as I wish to integrate a number of smaller break out spaces for the residents to occupy. As in Phoenix House, I believe it would be prudent for the family rooms to be slightly disjointed from the other bedroom accommodation. This offers the families a private getaway and ensures that the children can feel safer.

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Concept

Concept Accommodation

Accommodation

Typical Bedroom Corridor

Courtyard

Multiple Accommodation Blocks

Random Courtyards

In the majority of accommodation buildings, the bedrooms are aligned either side of a central corridor, giving a very medical and unwelcoming atmosphere. Whilst the central corridor would allow for easy access for all residents, the building would have to be quite large to allow for all the bedrooms to face onto a courtyard; a concept that I wish to employ.

By utilising a courtyard, the bedrooms are guaranteed an external view, with the corridor and circulation spaces around the outside, adding an extra layer of privacy from the public areas. However, the bedrooms are all opposite another one, meaning they may be overlooked.

Developing on from the concept shown opposite, a number of blocks can be linked together, around a central entrance. This ensures that all of the circulation remains around the exterior, and allows the bedrooms to look into an inner courtyard. Again, the issue of overlooking exists, but I believe that the bedrooms, either themselves or the windows, can be angled to overcome this problem.

As mentioned in the previous diagram, angling the bedrooms will overcome the issue of overlooking. In the diagram above, the exterior of the building would look â&#x20AC;&#x153;familiar,â&#x20AC;? whilst internally the courtyards appear random. The circulation can be directed around the accommodation. I think an adaptation of this plan would be divide the accommodation into multiple buildings, in-keeping with the rest of the scheme. This concept is detailed on the following page.

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Concept Accommodation

In developing the courtyard concept, a number of iterations are possible. As you can see from these diagrams, I have tried to avoid bedrooms over looking each other, although some do. This will be designed out using landscaping techniques that will help to offer privacy. The blue rectangles represent the individual bedrooms, whilst the grey shows circulation and open break out spaces. The iterations shown on this page reflect the village typology, within the accommodation buildings. I believe that this is advantageous as it breaks the accommodation building up, allowing for naturally induced courtyards to be created, whilst avoiding the need for long â&#x20AC;&#x153;hospitalâ&#x20AC;? style corridors. Furthermore, by breaking the buildings up, closer bonds can be created between the residents and the management of the site becomes easier, especially in case of a fire. When I visited Phoenix House, the manager described the buddy system, where by disabled residents were paired with able-bodied neighbours in the even of a fire. These iterations will be further developed in the following chapter, where analysis into a modular grid is conducted, with the buildings applied. Page 174

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Precedence

Support Hub

The Support Hub is one of the most private and secure areas required by the building programme. Due to the nature of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work, being in close proximity to the Imphal Barracks will be an advantage as a large proportion of the support hub visitors may be serving soldiers. A further key issue, is accessibility. This will be a major consideration throughout the project, however, as a number of the visitors to the Support Hub may be day guests, level thresholds and design for the disabled will be a driving force of the design.

facility that could be used for community development, craft training workshops, and social events. A timber screen-wall wraps the project and mitigates the strong sun while allowing cross ventilation. There are two main rooms for diverse activities separated by an outdoor entrance lobby. Above, a roof terrace shaded by an auxiliary membrane canopy encourages outdoor activities in the shade while enjoying distant views.

The use of the canopies are a feature I really admire, inspiring creativity, fun and a sense of enjoyment. They help to shelter the occupants from the harsh sun, where as my design could utilise to protect residents from the rain and creating external Like the remaining building occupying the site, sustainability will be a primary consideration. The Support Hub will consist mainly of office spaces and small meeting circulation space. I also appreciate the shape of the building, moving away from a conventional rectangular box, to something which draws the eye around and creates / interview rooms; therefore there is little need for any mechanical ventilation or a fascinating space. lighting, so long as the internal environment is comfortable. Large, open-able windows will allow plenty of natural daylight and encourage air flow. Shown opposite is the Pumanque Community Centre, Chile, built following the devastating earthquake in February 2010. The centre was designed to provide a Page 176

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Principles

Principles Museum

Museum

The entrance and focal point to the site for members of the public is the museum. Here, the stories of injured service personnel will be told and displays will portray some of the conditions in which the soldiers have served. This is in order to help break down the barriers between the forces and the public. Furthermore, it is to give a glimpse into the lives of the soldiers, to better understand for ourselves the conditions in which these brave soldiers lived for so long.

of the scheme. This will ensure that there are solid walls which will give plenty of sound insulation.

Given that the main museum is likely to be the main hub for the public, accessibility is again a key issue, as will the sustainable environmental aspects of the building. Furthermore, with potentially large numbers of visitors, the museum will need to be well sound proofed. Possible ways to do this, which will also aid in giving privacy to the accommodation areas, will be to have few or no openings looking into the heart

I found this to be a beautiful project, reminiscent of the aims of my own scheme. Built over several levels that echo the landscape, the large ramps are a design feature I have explored previously. Furthermore, using the roof tiles as a cladding element, helps to create a wrap around the entire buildings and increases the village like vernacular.

The precedent shown opposite is the China Academy of Artsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Folk Art Museum, built on the hillside of a former tea field. The design of the museum is to echo the ground below, by continuing the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s floors that follow the ups and downs of the slope. Planning is based on geometric division in the units of parallelogram to deal with the intricate topography. Each unit has a small individual roof, so the outlook became like The museum is likely to be in the north eastern part of the site, adjacent to the Walmgate Stray. It is likely to play host to not only the museum, but also the dining a village that evokes a view of extending tiled roofs. The outer wall is covered with room, kitchen, shop, reception and an IT suite. It is from the museum that members of a screen of tiles hung up by stainless wires, and it controls the volume of sunlight the public will be directed around the site. coming into the rooms inside.

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Principles

Principles Breakout Spaces

Breakout Spaces

Creating spaces for socialising and informal meetings will be an integral design feature of the scheme with several being located throughout the project. Being found within the majority of spaces, I will look to ensure that they all appear different, whilst using the same design language; a similar principle to that of the buildings themselves.

flexible to ensure that they can be used for a large number of different activities. I envisage these spaces to blend seamlessly with the host building and to allow both residents and visitors to have an area where they can convene and socialise.

Due to the break out spaces being in the vast majority of the buildings, they will vary between both public and private spaces. Shown opposite are a number of different styles to which could be used; from being slightly enclosed, appearing as a room within a room such as the image in the top right, to being created from pieces of furniture. For this reason, they shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require any additional lighting, although some may be provided if spaces specifically for reading are to be integrated, or any additional ventilation. Use of colours and materiality will be an integral part of the break out spaces, encouraging people to interact with them. Furthermore, they may act as way-finding points as they will all have their own individuality. These spaces will need to be Page 180

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Principles

Landscaping

I believe that the landscaping for this project is going to be key in achieving a successful project that can be enjoyed by all. The use of water, hard and soft landscaping, courtyards and materials will help differentiate a variety of areas and give added intrigue and another layer of detail to the project. On the opposite page are examples from Le Corbusier, Unbuilt Hospital in Venice and Microcities, Hammaro Boogie-Woogie. These projects focussed on creating buildings that revolve around the courtyards, as opposed to the other way round. Both projects plan for future expansion, using principles and concepts, rather than fixed plans. Creating master plans based on principles therefore allows for a variety of building forms, mirrored in their language but individual in their appearance. It is this concept that I aim to emulate.

these courtyards will then start to describe and propose the positioning of other buildings. Utilising stepping stones as seen in the image above, to the entrances of some of the buildings would add further intrigue and wonder to the building, enticing the younger audience in. Alternative bridges would also be required for access (Part M). Furthermore, the external space plays a key role in the circulation around the site. By carefully guiding both residents and visitors around the site, both parties can be subliminally directed around, so that the two paths never cross if so desired. Therefore, by ascribing to a set of key landscaping principles will be essential in ensuring a successful scheme.

By allowing the design to be influenced by the courtyards, as opposed to attempting to fit the courtyards around the building, I can ensure that the internal and external spaces work well with each other. As described previously, the accommodations are all to look out onto their own courtyards. Arranging many bedroom buildings around Page 182

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Experience Chapter Conclusion

Ensuring that the residents and visitors enjoy being in the building and are comfortable is vital to creating a successful scheme. This chapter began by investigating the types of activities common to the military and devising a method by which some of these sports could be integrated into the buildings. A list of the perceived key spaces was also given (Sports Centre, Support Hub, Accommodation, Museum & Break Out Space) with their respective primary design principles. These will be utilised within the next chapter as the design begins to â&#x20AC;&#x153;come togetherâ&#x20AC;? and truly develops. In addition to the design principles for the various key spaces, images and precedences were provided to show the style and the thought processes to use in the design development stages. The accommodation was shown to include an adjacency to a courtyard, to prevent bedrooms from being overlooked and allow them to have a relaxing and tranquil view. The concept of using courtyards, extends to the location of the circulation for these bedroom accommodation. It as decided that by having several smaller accommodation buildings, as opposed to one large block, that each could have their own courtyard with as little amount of internal circulation as possible. Instead, the optimal solution would be for the circulation to be outside, with a covered canopy to provide shelter. The final key consideration to be discussed, was that of landscaping. The variations in materiality and use of water are going to be critical in providing a scheme which has the appearance of being open, whilst ensuring that the residents feel safe within their environment. Le Corbusierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Venice Hospital is a key precedence in this design exploration. The following chapter looks to develop on all these concepts into a proposed scheme.

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Design Development Chapter Introduction

A lot of concepts and ideas have been discussed throughout this workbook and it is within this chapter that I aim to bring these ideas together. There are many driving concepts, from the use of a village like building typology, to the use of external space for circulation, arranging the bedroom accommodation around inner courtyards. I believe that I now have the majority of the information required in order to develop the proposals. In previous chapters, I noted the use of the HESCO barrier technology in the accommodation buildings. This chapter will look to create a module of this technology, such that a number of different plans can be developed based on the one module. Further development will need to be conducted into how openings can be formed in the technology and how best to detail this. In using SIPs to construct the public buildings, a range of various forms can take shape. Inspired by the origami models I built earlier in the process, I would like for the roofs of these buildings to take on a folded like form. Using the origami language, will then help to tie the private and public buildings together, whilst the use of differing materials and textures will help to differentiate. In concluding this chapter, I will have a design in place that can be developed further in Design Studio 4. Concept renders will be developed throughout the chapter and will form the basis of the final images. Furthermore, the canopy will be developed alongside the HESCO module.

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Concept

Concept Building Description

Building Description Accommodation

Meeting Space

Security Outdoor Spaces

Support Hub Office

reception Art Room

IT Suite

Dining

Gym Shop Plant Museum

Exhibition Space

Kitchen

Workshop

Over recent chapters, a lot of research, experimentation and analysis has been conducted into a number of technologies, forms and environmental conditions. A number of key considerations have been discussed; such as the public / privacy issue; the protection offered from the housing estate to the south, with the large open expanse to the north east; accessibility and the need for familiarity. Given these topics, decisions are starting to be made on the positioning of some of the programme onto the site already, which are to be discussed on subsequent pages. Shown are the relationships between the various spaces and their private / public status. This information has been used through out the workbook in order to ascertain the break down of the programme into a variety of buildings. In previous chapters, these buildings have then been conceptually developed site’s master plan. Within this chapter, this information will first be expressed through space size diagrams, before a simplistic grid is applied to the site and hand drawn sketches represent the layout and possible landscaping of the scheme.

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Breakout Space

Private Public

With the main circulation for the scheme being external, providing some form of shelter for the residents and visitors will be crucial. Within this chapter, the canopy is developed on a concept initially designed as part of my DSIT C work. The self supporting canopy, which opens dependent on a variety of external parameters, encapsulated the Abstract Machines mantra and aims to reflect the principles of the scheme itself. With a view to work to be carried out within Design Studio 4, further analysis will be conducted into a number of precedents, such as Christopher Alexander’s A Pattern Language, Jørn Utzon’s research into additive architecture and Arne Jacobson’s work, in order to understand and evaluate the underlying principles of courtyard design. With this greater depth of knowledge, I will then revisit the scheme and develop on the project developed towards the end of this chapter, to formalise my scheme for the end of DS4.

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up and over the buildings. Using this information along with the orientation of the building will, I believe, create a fascinating form. A more natural way to design against the wind is using landscaping. I have previously spoke about the use of trees in order to protect the scheme from solar gain, and trees will also assist in protecting from the The orientation of buildings can greatly effect how the wind is diverted around the wind. Furthermore, by raising the ground up as can be seen in the lower left hand diagram, the wind is again directed up and over the building, therefore creating a structure. As it is possible to see in the diagrams opposite,by orienteering the corner of the building towards the wind, the pressure will be channelled around the building more pleasant environment. and deflect towards the remaining site. When the building is flat to the oncoming wind, a positive, pushing force is created, whilst behind the building, a negative Creating a pleasant atmosphere is crucial to a successful project and by utilising a pressure develops causing a suction effect. Turbulent air will also develop, which village style building type, micro-climates are likely to be produced in the courtyards. could cause a turbulent environment, possibly uncomfortable for the residents and On the following pages are diagrams detailing the variety between public and private spaces as well as access to the site. occupants of the external spaces. As mentioned previously, protection from the colder, northerly wind is important to ensure a comfortable and energy efficient internal environment; whilst creating a tranquil and calm external courtyard conditions.

As can be seen in the above diagrams, there are both design features and natural features that can be employed to design against the wind. The top diagram shows the roof coming down to the ground, similar to the sporting club in Rome analysed in the previous chapter. This protects the external circulation and diverts the wind Page 190

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Concept Building Divisions

Building Divisions

pedestrians are more likely to come from the east of the site, the Walmgate Stray. One of the key principles of the scheme is to give the impression that the protect is open to the public, whilst ensuring that the residents and visitors to the support hub Public vehicular access will likely come from the south of the site. Private pedestrians feel safe and secure. The top diagram opposite show the possible separation between are likely to either come via the barracks, or the south. the public (blue cross hatch) and private (grey diagonal hatch) spaces. On the following pages are a series of indicative layouts that help to show a variety of The private space is adjacent to the barracks, with the possibility of a secure entrance proposed floor plans. These layouts include their relative sizes and privacy status. to the rear of the site. The public area is the full width of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;entranceâ&#x20AC;? from Walmgate Stray, helping to give the impression of a large, public extension to the stray; extending to the south west corner, over looking the housing estates. On the previous page, the orientation of the building was discussed in order to design against the wind. In the bottom diagram opposite, a hatched area is shown where the HESCO technology could be utilised. With the deep thickness of the HESCO, the material will absorb the colder wind and protect the internal environment. An additional advantage is that the thick walls will offer the aura of security and privacy. The diagram above shows how the visitors are likely to access the site. Public Page 192

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Concept Building Configurations

Building Configurations

On this pages, the concept configurations shown previously, are portrayed with their respective spatial relationships, as defined in previous chapters. With the above iteration, a lot of open space can be found in the centre of the scheme, helping to make the whole project feel extremely open. The staff offices, IT and meeting rooms are used to help shelter the support hub, however the accommodation appears to be prominent and towards a main entrance; if this layout is to be utilised then this factor will need to be considered. Having two large structures, such as the accommodation and gym areas in close proximity block the view of the scheme from the south west. In this option I think the accommodation being close to the gym works really well, as there will need to be a direct link between the two buildings. However, it appears that the residents will have to make quite a walk to get to the workshops. Whilst this in itself is not a negative, in its current orientation, the residents may be overlooked for a substantial period of time as they walk to the workshops, and this may be a negative aspect. Page 194

Shown above, the individual buildings are in a denser compilation. As opposed to the layout opposite, the sports complex is shifted towards the stray, with the workshops and exhibition spaces crowded in to accommodate this move. The IT suites and meeting rooms surround the staff offices which offer shelter to the support hub. In the above diagram, the accommodation becomes more noticeable as it is one of the main buildings to be seen as visitors approach. Because of this, I don’t think that this arrangements works particularly well due to the lack of security to the accommodation. The above iteration appears to be extremely dense, which will have a negative impact on the courtyards and exterior circulation. Due to the close proximity of the buildings, the exhibition centre is set back from the main public entrance, with the workshops positioned in front. This is undesirable as the residents will have little option but to interact with the public to get to the workshops, as opposed to the encounter being of their choice.

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Another relatively “open” layout shown above, offers more privacy to the accommodation, whilst also sheltering the support hub. The support hub is situated adjacent to the barracks, allowing the opportunity for serving members to visit the hub for support and assistance if required. The sports complex is situated on the south east of the site, allowing for views out over the stray, and the possibility for the design to include external space and to link with the stray. The large open expanses shown throughout the scheme, allows for external break out / courtyards to be developed. The workshops and exhibition space are shown to the south of the site offering plenty of natural daylight and ventilation opportunities. This will help to reduce the energy costs of these buildings, although mechanical ventilation and lighting may be required for specific tasks and equipment. Furthermore, with the accommodation positioned towards the north, the southern parts are opened up to the buildings which will require daylight during the day.

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In the above iteration, the accommodation is shown in the north west corner of the site. This offers the residents maximum privacy, which is a key issue as this is the area where the residents required the most protection. The support hub is shown closer to the entrance of the site, with the building’s entrance having the potential to be hidden. This would be a similar situation as to that seen at Help for Heroes’ Phoenix House in Catterick. However, due to this scheme being more open to the public, this is a negative as the most nervous of residents will be the closest to the public. The offices and meeting rooms are shown to the east of the accommodation, offering some privacy. Whilst these staff areas require less privacy than the accommodation, I don’t think it is beneficial to the scheme to have these areas on show from the stray. On the following pages, these plans are developed further; developing on the locations and sizes of each buildings. Page 195

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Concept Building Configurations

Building Configurations I have now begun to develop from the spacial relationship studies conducted previously, into more developed plans. Shown on this page are more detailed plans that show how the site can be split into individual buildings and what will be contained within each. As can be seen to the left, there will be eight main buildings located on the site, with three of them being totally private buildings, only to be occupied by staff and the residents. The offices and meeting rooms are used to shelter the accommodation, although the support hub is adjacent to a public building. This could be hidden by landscaping, offering better views out from the support hub, and giving a sense of privacy. In terms of the public buildings, I don’t think that the plan works due to workshop / exhibition areas being so far away from the museum and supporting spaces, such as the dining rooms and reception. This is undesirable as although this configuration allows for the public to freely move through the site and would be encouraged to walk throughout the scheme with the reception at the opposite end of the scheme. This exposes the residents to being overlooked and unintentional interactions with the visitors.

The museum, workshops and exhibition buildings are aligned along the elevation looking out onto the Walmgate Stray. However, due to this orientation, I believe that the scheme appears to be giving too much space over to the private areas, reducing the openness of the project and preventing the “welcome invitation” atmosphere aimed for. Furthermore, the workshops and exhibition spaces, which require a lot of light, are facing east, meaning that they will be flooded with the morning sun, however receive very little during the afternoon.

In the opposite iteration, the museum and gym have switched places, giving the more public buildings a closer relationship now and I believe work better. In this configuration, three of the schemes primary buildings are situated at the corners of the scheme accessible by members of the public.

Having analysed the concept layouts devised previously, I believe that this iteration is the most successful. The gym, which is likely to be often occupied by the residents, is in close proximity to the bedroom accommodation meaning that the residents don’t have to cross the scheme to go to the gym.

The offices are again used to protect the private areas from the main public parts of the scheme. However, as you can see in the lower left of the diagram, the Support Hub appears to be accessible to the public, which shouldn’t be allowed. The Support Hub could be hidden away using landscaping, an alternative option would be to swap the accommodation and the Support Hub locations.

The support hub is located to the north east of the site, adjacent to the barracks. This therefore allows ex, as well as serving, members of the Armed Forces to visit the hub for any advice and support they may need. The offices and meeting suites are used to separate the public and private spaces.

The public buildings that align along the southern part of the scheme are in a great position to make the most of the environmental features. As noted earlier, this part of the site will receive plenty of natural daylight and ventilation and these buildings are some that require the most daylighting and ventilation. I believe that this layout can be developed on to form the basis of my proposal. I believe the proximity between the public buildings works well, with little opportunity for visitors to stray to areas they are not meant to. However, I think that the gym should have a closer relationship to the accommodation. Page 196

In the opposite graphic, the gym has been moved to the south east entrance of the site, likely to be used for vehicular access for residents and members of the public. The support hub is pushed towards the main private entrance from the barracks, leaving the staff offices disjointing the gym from the remaining public buildings. This leaves the private areas of the scheme being left vulnerable to members of the public walking through the scheme. However, if routed around the offices, this issue can be overcome.

With the museum positioned at the north entrance of the site, likely to be the direction that the majority of pedestrians enter from. This leaves the rest of the public elevation to be filled with the workshops and exhibition spaces. The public buildings are all within close proximity and are not dissected from other areas, as shown in the iteration above. I believe this to be the most effective way to position the buildings on the site. The relationships work well and with a good number of open spaces. This iteration is now to be developed in terms of its arrangement on the site on the following page.

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Concept Building Proposals

Building Proposals

Shown on these pages are what I believe to be the two most successful concept layouts. Through careful analysis and consideration, these plans were deemed to be successful due to the relationships created; such as the proximity of the accommodation to the gym and the exhibition space to the workshops. In all of the previous iterations, the offices and meeting rooms / IT suites have been used to help shield and protect the private, vulnerable areas from members of the public. This is shown in both of the plans above and I believe to be a successful technique as these rooms require a degree of privacy although not as much as the areas they protect. The privacy of two of the key rooms - the Support Hub and Accommodation - is one of the main concepts of the whole scheme and is a prominent design feature.

accommodation could be designed in such a way as to allow the Support Hub to be placed inboard, with the accommodation surrounding it. I think that this iteration works well, however the offices may be the first thing that visitors will see when entering from the north. If possible, the museum should be moved further north, pushing the offices back in to the centre of the site. This concept is developed on the opposite page.

The offices and meeting spaces are again used as a defensive mechanism from the more public areas. Overall, I believe that the private areas are well protected from the main site. I will also investigate the possibility of some sort of water feature, such as a stream, running across the site, again helping to divide the public from the private.

from the northerly wind. In the remaining buildings, the SIPs construction method will be used. Shown over the next couple of pages are the concepts arranged around a linear grid. This is to add an extra layer of detail to these concept plans and better understand how these buildings could be arranged. In Design Studio 4 I aim to further investigate courtyard and village typology buildings to better understand how the buildings can be orientated.

The main public buildings run the length of the eastern side of the site, providing plenty of opportunity for the pedestrians to see the scheme. These buildings are perhaps orientated too easterly, therefore in the development stages this will need to be assessed. Including roof lights could be one way in which this can be overcome.

In the above iteration, due to the space requirements of the accommodation, the support hub has been positioned further towards the stray, pushing it away from the preferred entrance from the barracks. In the diagram, the areas required are portrayed simplistically in circle forms to represent their area. The support hub and Page 198

I believe that the above iteration is the more successful of the two proposals. The support hub is well hidden in the corner of the site, within close proximity to the barracks and the potential of a private entrance from this area. Adjacent is the accommodation which is close to the gym, providing easy walking routes.

The HESCO origami technology developed in the previous chapter is likely to be used for the accommodation buildings and possibly for the Museum, to act and protect Improving the health of those who Serve

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Building Proposals

Previously, I have been working on the plans in space diagrams, to avoid the trap of designing the building layout before all of the required information is established. I believe that further analysis and research is required into the courtyard designs, such as Christopher Alexander’s A Pattern Language. However, I believe I have sufficient information in order to design an initial iteration of a design.

/ art room and exhibition space due to there being no correlation between the orientations of the buildings. To overcome this, the buildings could be moved closer towards each other or the art room / workshop mirrored around the exhibition centre.

Furthermore, whilst I believe that the concept of the day space surrounding a water feature, opposite the staff offices, is good; when drawn out like above I don’t think the plan works. This is because the residents are likely to spend some of their time Shown over the next couple of pages are hand drawn sketches that show the development of a proposed scheme. Displayed above, is the key that helps depict the during the day in the day centre, at the same time as the staff will be in their offices. plans. Therefore, that concept of privacy is diminished by being overlook during the day. However, arranging the residents centre around a water feature / courtyard is a In the first iteration shown above, I believe that the general layout works well, with concept I will look to develop. the use of landscaping and water features helping to further distinguish between the public and private areas. I really like the way that the Support Hub appears as though it should be one form, that has being fractured to allow both access and views through to the bedroom accommodation. However, I believe that there is not much of a relationship between the workshop Page 200

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The second iteration addresses the issue of the offices overlooking the bedroom accommodation by separating them using landscaping and courtyards. This s a useful technique as it helps to give another layer of privacy to the residents. Furthermore, this new courtyard allows for a number of bedroom buildings to surround it. This allows for a large number of the residents to congregate in a central space easily from their bedrooms. However, this arrangement has the potential for overlooking other residents from bedrooms. The relationship between the art rooms, workshop and exhibition has been addressed and I believe that being in closer proximity with each other works a lot better and allows for better circulation around these buildings. However, these relatively public buildings back onto the family bedrooms. This is a major disadvantage as the residents may be especially protective of their children, and so by having the courtyard so close to the public area, may make the residents feel extremely uneasy. A courtyard with high hedges could be used to provide shelter, but I believe the best solution is to move the family accommodation to the northern part of the site.

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A major disadvantage of the scheme shown above is the route in which the residents must take if they are to get from their bedroom accommodation to the gym. The current path takes all residents around the family courtyard, another disadvantage of having the family bedroom in it’s current location, but also to the “public” side of the scheme. This exposes the residents to more than they may be comfortable with and will need to be addressed. The path takes this route so as to allow the residents courtyard to be fully enclosed and private. However, the path could be taken through here, with the use of gates and other entrances.

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Building Proposals

The above design has combined the residents day space with a number of bedrooms. This is useful if there are a group of residents who are extremely sociable, that will enjoy the possibility of being surrounded by other people for the majority of the time. I believe that this concept would be beneficial, however, in its current location, the day space is not very central amongst the remaining bedrooms. Furthermore, I intend for a canopy to provide shelter from the day space to the remaining bedrooms and in the current orientation, this would be extremely difficult to provide for. I believe that having a large water feature near towards the museum, where there is the possibility of the roof extending down to the ground, would be extremely beneficial as it will reflect any sunlight back into the building, helping to reduce the use of artificial lighting. Depending on the depth and scale of this water feature, may require specialist design for the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foundations.

believe that this relationship works well for the scheme; however as noted previously, the day space is not centralised when compared with the accommodation buildings. Therefore, when this is addressed, a close relationship between the day space and gym is still vital.

The final design in this series of hand sketches, shown above, addresses a number of issues discussed previously. As laid out in previous designs, the Support Hub is separated into two halves, allowing the residents and injured soldiers visiting the site a clear view through to the day space accommodation, to ease any nerves these visitors may have.

Overall, I believe that all of the designs have contributed great positives and posed some negatives that have been addressed each time. The design opposite considers the issues found before and creates a layout that I believe works well.

A major disadvantage found in the design opposite was the fact that the day space for the residents was not centralised when compared to the bedroom accommodation. Therefore, the day space in the design above is located in the middle of the bedroom buildings, allowing for a proposed canopy to provide shelter. However, the day space is again opposite the offices, despite the water feature offering a visual distraction and barrier; therefore this will need to be assessed and amended during further development.

In the previous layout, I noted that the path from the residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bedroom to the gym was extremely long and potentially exposed the residents. The design above recognises that issue and is in close proximity to the day centre, allowing easy access. I Page 202

To the west of the site, is a large, private courtyard for the schemeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residents. Located here, the courtyard offers an extra layer of privacy from any passers-by, and also providing an expanse of garden to host activities or an area in which to relax and congregate. Improving the health of those who Serve

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Module Development

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Extruded Octagon

Simplifying the Form

In order to achieve the door head height with lintel, I have extruded the octagon to have a angled height of 2500mm. Maintaining the 4000mm overall height, leaves a 1500mm zone in which the air can circulate and induce convection currents. This zone will include the thickness of the module, likely to be between 300-500mm and could include an area for services to run.

By breaking the module down into simplistic geometric shapes, the module creates a rectangle measuring 4000mm x 2500mm, 2no. rectangle triangles measuring 1500mm x 1500mm, and a final rectangle at the top measuring 1000mm x 1500mm. By creating a simplified form, the module should be easier to construct as well as being familiar and human scale sizes.

After much consideration and analysis of all the research conducted and models produced previously, I believe that the best way for the HESCO style technology to be orientated is vertically. This is because, as can be seen in the images opposite, in the vertical orientation, the technology can create a tunnel style shape, as opposed to a tall tower. Furthermore, openings such as doors and windows are more easily cut into the vertical faĂ§ade as has been shown previously.

Regular Octagon

To help create a module or building grid from which to build from, as is common place in the construction industry. Using Phoenix House as a size precedence, I have established that the common module would be approximately 4m x 6m. This is the best size for a bedroom, and a good sized office.

4000

Diagrammed above isâ&#x20AC;?halfâ&#x20AC;? a regular octagon, where all the sides and angles are equal. I have chosen this shape as I believe it would be a more familiar and easily constructable shape for the soldiers, than a complicated polygon. To achieve an overall width of 4m, as desired for the module, this leaves sides of 1657mm, too small for a door to fit into without recessing the

Elevation Measurements After completing the calculations from the diagrams produced so far, the module takes on the dimensions of that shown opposite. The dimensions shown are that of the externals, therefore the thickness of the module becomes critical as the internal dimensions ill be dependant upon this. So far I have experimented with the elevation form of the module. On the following page, I experiment with the depth of the module. Shown on the opposite page are images of a physical model produced to test the dimensions discussed.

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Module Length

Module

I have previously discussed the use of a module measuring 4000mm x 6000mm.. At present, the module has no natural conclusion, with either an infill piece of wall required, or leaving an open end. Therefore, in order to close off the module I propose, in keeping with the origami ethos, that the module unfolds to the ground.

The module length is required to be a minimum of 6300mm in order to achieve a flat exterior surface as shown in the upper left hand diagram. Although a greater portion width can be given, for example 700mm, I shall be working with 630mm for this exercise, with further experimentation to come further into the development.

In the top diagram above, you can see that I have divided the shape by ten, to give a 9° angle for each portion. Through using trigonometry, this then give a an external edge of at least 630mm. When this is applied to the 10 portions, an overall module length of at least 6300mm is given, as can be seen in the top diagram opposite.

Therefore, when the length of the module is squashed to 6000mm as shown in the left hand diagram, the folds along the individual portions are expressed, giving a really interesting façade. With each portion measuring 600m wide as shown above, the overall length can be tailored to suit the required dimensions.

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I believe that the philosophy for the module could be developed further and in the following year I hope to investigate whether using a long module as shown on this page is more or less advantageous than using a “building block,” such as a portion of the module. I believe that in using a building block, a larger number of forms could be produced, however they would take longer to construct and the overall construction timetable would be increased. In conclusion, I feel that whilst the module requires some final development, the beginning of the accommodation building is coming together and the form is starting to take shape. On upcoming pages, I investigate the use of a canopy structure that would be used to provide shelter and protection from the elements whilst circulating around the buildings.

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Materiality Lightweight Frames

Canopy Studies

With a lot of the circulation for the scheme being outdoors, the residents and visitors will be susceptible to the weather conditions. Therefore, I propose to use a independent canopy system to provide shelter between the buildings. To maintain the language of the scheme, the canopy is to be inspired by origami.

I mentioned on the previous page that tent construction could influence my design. Tents help to provide shelter, are weatherproof and lightweight, and can be rolled into significantly smaller shapes; the essence of my scheme. Held in place by flexible poles, I aim to use this technology to help construct my design. Traditionally, tents are held in place using elasticated poles, as shown in the bottom left image; however have the ability to pivot in any direction at the joint. For my project, I require a stricter joint and would look to use a hinged joint similar to that shown in the bottom right image. This would only allow the poles to hinge in 2 directions, which is required for the canopy structure to work. For the poles to be kept in place, I will also thread the poles through a net, as shown in the centre image.

Shown on this page is the type of structure that will be utilised for the canopy. As part of my DSIT C work, I investigated the possibility of a canopy with this type of structure. Through a series of investigations, with some being portrayed on upcoming pages, a canopy was developed that would open and close based on a customisable external parameter, such as sunlight or rain intensity. As part of the DSIT C work, materiality was a pivotal consideration. A number of different materials were considered, with it being decided that the lightweight, flexible nylon tent materials concluded to be the best.

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shown below, these springs would be positioned where the two holes are, effectively acting in the same manner as a door closer.

In the following pages, additional materials are discussed in order to allow the canopy to open independently. However, to allow the system to close it may be necessary for the system to have springs attached, which will pull the structure back into itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s closed forms. These springs could be positioned on the hinge, and act similar to the elastic in the tent pole, to pull the canopy back when the current is broken. On the hinge Improving the health of those who Serve

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Materiality

Concept Canopy Studies

Smart Materials

A family of materials that have the inherited ability to alter their shape based on external elements, such as temperature, are Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) and Shape Memory Plastics (SMP). The images shown on this page are produced from a SMP. It is with this type of material technology that I aim to construct the canopy with, to allow it to open based on external parameters, such as rainfall.

temperature, before lowering after passing a lower threshold temperature. These threshold temperatures can be reprogrammed for each material and application, therefore allowing any number of possible uses. However, these actuators aren’t readily available and still relatively untested, therefore will not be considered in this design.

The principles design has been detailed in the above diagrams. The blue represents the smart wire and you can see that as a current is passed through it, the wire reduces in size and forces the structure to fold. Using this design, a beautiful canopy can be constructed that can be unfurled as it is required. As the structure is folded, it requires significantly less space than in it’s open form. Shown in the images above, the structure opens out in a linear direction; however it is also possible for the system to open in a radial fashion as seen in the models on the previous page.. This is possible due to the folding technique, and how the system is operated.

Memory shape materials are a unique material in that their molecular build up changes when heated. To produce the models shown, the plastic has to be heated to 70°C, before manipulated into the shapes shown. When the material is reheated, it returns to its original sheet form. The limitation however, is that the plastic can not have two “memory shapes.” Once the material is reheated to its flat form, it can not be then reheated into the shapes shown below.

When the canopy is opened in a linear fashion, the system becomes narrower. Therefore a track/ guide system could be used only if it had the potential to slide inwards as the width reduced. However, if the smart wire was threaded through the edges (as depicted in the images) then this could act as the guide and force the structure to open as shown. The main consideration for this system is strength - a material will be required that has the potential to fold easily, while still structurally strong.

To achieve this dual memorised shapes, a Shape Memory Polymer Actuator has been developed. This material has the ability to memorise two shapes, reverting to them based on external parameters, such as temperature. Therefore, it is achievable to have a structure, such as a parasol, automatically raising when it reaches a critical Page 210

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Canopy Studies

These sketches help to depict the structural development of my design. The image to the left shows the structure in itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flattened state. The red lines indicate the tent poles that would have a single axis hinge, as discussed previously. As the canopy is retracted/ opened due to the smart wire, the hinge in the centre of the pole would allow for the squares to fold. The black line indicates where secondary structural poles would be. These will be held in place similar by the fabric, in a similar fashion as shown previously. These poles will not be connected to anything at their ends however, due to the complexity of the motion. Instead, they will offer full support and stabilisation. The blue lines indicate poles that will stay in a horizontal position, and move along the xy axis.

the smart wire) could be bought in most outdoor shops, yet the structure created is something not often seen. Furthermore, I believe that this is a technology which the soldiers could use themselves to create the canopies and help give them a feeling of involvement with the scheme and act as a part of the rehabilitation process.

On this page I have included the elevation of the structure to show how the design folds away, the differing height of the structure as it opens out and that the base of the canopy remains on the same plane. In the paper origami model that I made, the model could curve in multiple directions. However, I noticed that when the model curved, it made it difficult for the model to open. I want the system to open out to provide shelter, and this is a lot easier when the base remains in the same plane. The advantage of this system is that it has the ability to be an extremely intelligent system. Due to the structure I have employed, there is an inherent strength in the canopy and therefore little additional support is required. The system automatically responds to external environmental factors without the need for human interaction.

The image centre and right detail how a single square would fold up, and the positioning of the seams around the poles. The corners of the square (junction of blue and red lines) will use a similar hinge as described before, although with a maximum opening of 90Â°. This will offer additional support when the canopy is unfolded, whilst not allowing the square to overextend. I appreciate the simpleness of the structure, creating a complex and beautiful design. The majority of the materials, (apart from Page 212

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Concept Canopy Studies

Canopy Studies

Light Sensor & Photovoltiac Cell

Circuit

Reel Slider

SMA

Hinge

The smart wire has the ability to only reduce by a small amount when the current is applied. I therefore opted to use the smart wire to change its shape when heated, as opposed to length, therefore acting as a hinge. The diagram to the top right depicts the set up. A photovoltaic cell will provide the current for the circuit which will heat the smart wire. A light sensor (although this could be any type of sensor for an external environment) will act as the resistor - this means that when a certain lux level is reached, the resistor will allow current to pass and the hinge to open. The wire will be positioned alongside the hinging poles (previously shown in red in the diagrams) and folded back on itself to close the circuit, as shown in the bottom left image. I have doubled up the smart wire (shown in thin blue line), not only to close off the circuit, despite the possibility the wire could go down the opposite side as shown in the green dashed line, but to give additional strength to the hinge to close. The centre image depicts the actions caused by a current passed through the smart wire and the hinge closing.

wall. The track system is one of the most important parts of the design, as it ensure that the canopy opens in a linear fashion; supports the canopy and also provides support for an additional rail along the top. This top tail houses the solar panel (or other sensor) and a reel, from which a guide rope attaches to the end of the canopy. This provides additional support, and as with the rest of the structure, opens and closes given the position of the canopy. Shown on the following pages are a number of images of a physical model produced to test the system. I believe that the canopy works as desired, to offer shelter to the residents as they move around the site. In subsequent pages, plans of the proposed scheme are shown. The canopies will be positioned between the majority of the buildings, especially the accommodation buildings.

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Concept

Concept Canopy

Canopy

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Proposal

Proposal Overview

Overview

Museum

Support Hub

Gym

Bedrooms

Family Bedrooms

Support Hub Museum

Resident Centre

Bedrooms Workshop

Museum Art Room Exhibition Centre

Gym

The site can be predominantly broken down into public and private spaces. Given the accommodation blocks, the canopies detailed earlier will open up when necessary to previous research, it was decided that the private buildings would occupy the centre offer shelter from the elements. and north west of the site, with the public buildings offering protection and shelter to the east and south. The Support Hub is situated in the north west of the site, adjacent to Imphal Barracks. This is the area of the site considered to be the most private, hence why the Support Hub is located here. With a faceted roof, the Support Hub offers views through to Developing from the space planning exercise conducted at the beginning of this chapter and following a variety of iterations, that can be found in the accompanying the residents centre located in the centre. The roof and shape of the building offers a comforting feeling as it envelops a central courtyard. sketchbook, the above design proposal was created. There are clear define philosophies relating to the private and public buildings, with this also reflected in the materiality, portrayed overleaf. Designed in order to offer maximum privacy and protection to the residents and Support Hub, the public buildings are arranged around the exterior of the site. Given The private, accommodation buildings are constructed from the heavy, HESCO that the members of the public are likely to enter from the west, the main entrance inspired, concrete forms. The design echoes the former accommodation of the in the museum is situated at the north west of the site. To combat against the cooler, soldiers during their career with the military, reminiscent of the quick to assemble, northerly wind, the roof to the museum has been designed such as to divert the wind tent structures they used to live in. Separated into smaller sleeping blocks of no more up and over the remaining building, thus offering a more pleasant micro climate than 6 bedrooms, the accommodation surrounds a main Residents Centre, where the within the site. residents can spend their day, if not in one of the workshops of gym. Between these Page 218

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The public buildings are likely to be clad in timber, to give a warm, approachable, tactile appearance. Curtain walling will welcome the visitors at each entrance, to give an open feeling, whilst having the added benefit of allowing plenty of natural daylight in. Large over hangs however will prevent solar gain, in a similar fashion to the precedence research earlier.

On the following pages are a plan and elevations, along with various renders of the site. I am quite pleased with how the scheme is progressing and believe that the next stage is to develop each individual building and the landscaping around the site.

Referring again to the accompanying sketch book, a detailed analysis of the landscaping of the site is required. I believe that the landscaping will play a huge part in the development of the scheme, as it has already assisted in the master planning of the site. Ensuring that all of the bedrooms looked out onto a private courtyard was a key issue to protect the residents from being overlooked. Shown above are images of the types of materials discussed on this page which are to be used in the scheme. Further details of these can be found in the accompanying DSIT A report.

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Proposal

Proposal Elevations

Plan

Museum

IT Suite

North Elevation

Reception

Family Bedroom

Shop

Family Bedroom Family Bedroom

Family Bedroom

Meeting Room Circulation

Office

Bedroom

Offices

Dining Space

Bedroom Bedroom

Open Plan Offices

Circulation

Kitchen Reception

Kitchen

Army Office

Offices Circulation

Office Meeting Room Bedroom

Reception

Bedroom

Staff Bedroom

Bedroom

Circulation Support Hub

Bedroom

East Elevation

Meeting Room

Bedroom

IT Suite

IT Suite Bedroom

Kitchen

Dining Space

IT Suite

Bedroom Circulation Office Break Out Space

Reception Circulation

Circulation Art Room

Bedroom

Bedroom Bedroom

Bedroom

Bedroom Reception

Bedroom Bedroom Bedroom Bedroom

Exhibition

South Elevation

Workshop Office Office Office

Gym Change

Change

Office

Reception

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West Elevation

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Proposal

Proposal Views

Views

Bedroom Accommodation

Residents Centre

Support Hub Entrance

Exhibition Entrance

Gym

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Design Development Chapter Conclusion

Developing the programme into a preliminary design was the principle aim of this chapter. It began by evaluating the research which had gone previously, examining the space relationships and a variety of iterations were considered. These were then analysed against the design principles and developed upon in order to produce the schemes master plan.

depicted so far are really fascinating to me. They appear to emulate the current pitches of roofs in the surrounding housing estate, whilst bringing them into the 21st Century and portraying what is achievable.

Whilst the design shown towards the end of this chapter is not complete, I believe that it is a good starting point from which to develop in Design Studio 4. I believe that the master planning and building plans work well, Following this, investigations were undertaken to develop a module that could be applied to the HESCO technology. This is the technology that will allowing easy circulation around the site and achieving the design principles established previously. Analysis will now begin earnestly into the courtyard be used to construct the accommodation buildings and will act as a form precedence noted at the beginning of this chapter, in order to develop on work for the concrete panels. By utilising this dense, heavy weight concrete element, a sense of security and privacy aims to be achieved, in order to relax this master plan and look at alternative arrangements that play on the use of open space and canopies even more. The use of the canopies to adjoin the the residents and help them feel safe. Investigations will take place in Design Studio 4 to ascertain the benefits of using the HESCO technology as a building buildings will help provide shelter, whilst given the scheme another dynamic block, or as a module. My initial beliefs are that by using a building block, a aspect. In Design Studio 4, I hope to experiment with the change in levels to larger number of designs will be constructable and therefore each building will create a “skate park” like effect, as detailed in the previous chapter. This will be individual and unique, allowing way finding to be a lot easier. Furthermore, provide a further design feature to the scheme and give a sense of fun and creativity, whilst subtly increasing the physical rehabilitation for the residents. I believe that this technology would have countless uses, and could be optimised by other schemes or the military itself, in order to construct new Furthermore, whilst the scheme is currently single storey buildings as I set out from the initial stages, I want to investigate the possibility of creating a raised buildings. walkway, between the buildings, for use by the residents. This feature will give In contrast, the public buildings will be constructed from SIPs, offering a the residents something to aim for, in being able to work towards the views lightweight approach to the dense HESCO. This variance in materiality will help from the roof tops of the city and the Walmgate Stray. the visitors in differentiating between areas they are allowed and not allowed to enter. In order to show that the buildings do have a relationship, a folded In concluding this workbook, I believe that I have achieved what I set out like roof will atop these public buildings. Therefore the same origami inspired to do. I feel that I have laid the foundations for a scheme, which is vitally necessary, not only within York, but for the rest of the UK and one that will be language can be read in each building, but the construction technique and materials used show a difference in both use and privacy in functionality. In greatly welcomed. I am confident that the scheme can be developed further Design Studio 4, the SIPs construction technique will be further explored, to to produce a beautiful set of buildings, which not only provide a fun, nurturing experiment with the use of angled walls instead of vertical, and the possibility and rehabilitating environment for the injured service personnel to come of a “wrap around” effect. This will further enhance the similarities in the public to; but one that will also enhance the surrounding landscape and provide a / private buildings as they will both appear as an almost monolithic structure, welcome attraction to the city of York. whereby the walls become the roof and vice versa. The use of the folded roofs Improving the lives of those who Serve

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