DSIT A by Ben Lillywhite

DSIT A - Technology Report 16th May 2016 Ben Lillywhite C7138009

Contents

Contextual Analysis Proposition Site Views Site Regional History Population Analysis Programme

Page 4 5 6-7 8-9 10 - 11 12 - 21 22 - 27

Precedence Spatial Brockholes Centre Al Bahar Towers Boyle & Petyt Primary School Materiality HESCO Principles

Page 28 - 29 30 - 31 32 - 33 34 - 35 36 - 37 38 - 41 42 - 45

Building Description Design Strategy Key Room Considerations Building Orientation Proposals

Materiality & Structure 46 - 47 48 - 49 50 - 51 52 - 53

Material Considerations Structure Considerations Detail Considerations Structural Tactics Environmental Tactics Conclusion References

54 - 55 56 - 59 60 - 61 62 63 64 65

Contextual Analysis

Proposition

Site Views

Project

Studio

War and conflicts have littered world history, with millions of lives been unfairly taken and infinitely more soldiers and civilians injured. The aim for this project is to recognise the sacrifice of the injured soldiers and assist in their rehabilitation; helping to celebrate their success and remove the stigma of disability.

As a member of the Abstract Machines studio; a design studio within Leeds Beckett Masters of Architecture course; this project will look at the use of computational analysis and processes to enhance architectural concepts. The studio believes that by using modern computation techniques, increasingly complex designs are possible, that can be manipulated through a variety of parameters.

It is unfortunate that these brave, injured service personnel have a history of being the forgotten members of the Armed Forces, left on the sidelines and made to wear civilian clothing during many victory parades, where the remaining returning soldiers were at the forefront, basking in the victorious atmosphere. Rightly so, we remember those taken from us too early. However, until relatively recently, little thought was given to those who were injured, not able to remain in their position within the army and little experience of civilian life, to which they had to adjust. During recent years, it is fortunate that the stigma around injured service personnel has begun to dissipate, with the public beginning to recognise the sacrifices they have given. Whilst many of the injuries are visible - scars and lost limbs - a vast number are psychological. PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) is a mental health issue that scars many of the soldiers returning home, often leaving the soldiers unable to carry out their work, civilian or military, and constantly being distracted and anxious. It is both the physical and mental injuries which will require years of rehabilitation in order for these brave men and women to return to society. Page 4

The studios mantra is â&#x20AC;&#x153;analyse > model > test > analyse > modelâ&#x20AC;? and this method will be a key influence throughout the project. In using computational analysis and design programmes, a large number of iterations, based on an infinite number of parameters can be used to influence the design of the scheme, in order to produce a project best suited to the occupants and site. The project will begin with looking at the reasoning behind the need for a rehabilitation centre within the UK. This document is to investigate the technological aspects of the design with an environmental and structural strategy focus. In concluding, I aim to establish a number of principles and strategies in order to design the scheme to fit with both context and program; built using technologies and materials in keeping with design philosophies and the nature of the building.

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Contextual Analysis

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

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 the country, and with York soon becoming the HQ for the Adaptable Force troops, a new a part of the Army 2020 restructuring process. Within York itself, I have chosen the site (shown above in red) to be alongside the Imphal 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 should enhance the landscape. I intend for interesting spaces to be built upon the stray; spaces where both residents and the public can come and contemplate, and engage with the feature.

The site benefits from having easy access, being cited on the edged of the city with 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 direct from the train station.

As described previously, the scheme would play host to a recovery centre, helping soldiers in their rehabilitation and transition into civilian lifestyle. However, this would only be a part of the overall project. Accommodation would be provided for the course residents, and it should be noted that this is not a permanent residential home for the service personnel, merely somewhere for them to stay whilst participating on courses. A museum celebrating the injured service personnel will also be established, alongside spectacular spaces, to be not only used by the centre, but the general public too; helping to break down the barriers between the service and the public by removing the stigma. On the previous page 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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Contextual Analysis

Contextual Analysis Regional History

Regional History 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 Wales’ Own Regiment of Yorkshire

York has a vibrant and long-standing history, dating back to the Roman Empire, with the city becoming the capital of the Britannia Inferior. This page shows a detailed time-line of York’s history, with this historical context an important factor to understand in any design. The original cavalry barracks were built in 1796 as part of the barrack-building programme initiated by William Pitt. Developed into a garrison in 1847 by the 5th Dragoon Guard, this meant York was now a fortified place where troops are permanently stationed. From 10 officers and 210 men, the barracks had grown to 24 officers and 705 other ranks at this point in time. By the turn of the 20th Century, York was now the Head Quarters of the Northern Command. A farewell parade for the horses was held prior to the Second World War, now armed with armoured cars. 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.

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In 1958 the West Yorkshire and East Yorkshire Regiments were amalgamated becoming The Prince of Wales’ Own Regiment of Yorkshire. In 2006, they joined the remaining Yorkshire infantry regiments to become The Yorkshire Regiment. This timeline shows how important a role York has played in British military history and why it is vitally important to ensure that these memories are not forgotten. Improving the health of those who Serve

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Contextual Analysis

Contextual Analysis Tourist Population

Local 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)

Alongside understanding a sites history, understanding its demographic is just as important to ensure a successful scheme. This project aims to take the stigma away from injured / disabled people, not only in the military but in the general population, and a primary way of achieving this is to integrate and welcome the local and tourist population. The graphics above show a plethora of information. The population numbers are split nearly 50/50 between men and women with an average age of 40. Within the city, there are 198, 050 people living within 83, 552 households. It can be presumed that with the majority of residents being of a mature age, that they are aware of the injured service personnel situation and are looking to help. This means that there is already a potentially large number of visitors based within the city. There are also around 22, 000 students living within York, allowing for huge potential numbers of visitors to the project.

Tourism is a key factor in York’s success and the economy. It attracts around 7 million people each year, generating over £500 million. More than 3 million people alone 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. As well as British visitors, there are also 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. Of the remaining top ten, four are countries from within Europe, proving how popular York is with visitors from both inside and outside of the EU. With the expansion of The Invictus Games and alike, a public centre dedicated to the injured service personnel could be extremely beneficial.

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.

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Contextual Analysis

Contextual Analysis Location Analysis

Hydro & Tidal equates to 3.7%

Energy Analysis

Solar equates to 3.8%

Wind equates to 20.3%

Plant biomass equates to 24.2%

Natural gas equates to 40152 tonnes

Bio-energy excluding plant biomass equates to 48%

On the opposite page, the graphics help to show the huge reliance, not only York, but the UK as a whole, has on the oil and gas industry to help heat and power our homes. The scheme aims to be as energy efficient as possible, by utilising a number of environmental tactics which will be discussed later, to using renewable energies to power the scheme.

Electricity equates to 26088 tonnes

Solid fuels equates to 2676 tonnes

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Bio-energy waste equates to 4057 tonnes

The above diagram shows how the growth of York is to be restricted. York is a beautiful and idyllic city with extremely strict panning regulations and any future expansion is limited due to the surrounding greenbelt. The dark green represents greenbelt, whilst the light green shows the open spaces existing within the city itself. As you can see, there is limited available green spaces in order to build upon within the city itself, with a lot of these green spaces already dedicated to gardens and landscaping. The rehabilitation centre will require a lot of outdoor, open space, therefore 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. Therefore, the site that I have chosen does not require any demolition and can help to support and provide jobs for the local area.

Petrol equates to 60956 tonnes

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In recent times, York has become synonymous with flooding. The river Ouse runs through the centre 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 above, the terrain around the city and surrounding areas is very low, leading to large floods plains. The plan above shows the area of land that regularly floods and is categorised as Zone 1. York suffers from regular flooding, with two notable large scale floods occurring in 2000 & 2012. The site that I am to build upon falls outside of the flooding zone, and so whilst it needs to be considered as a highly unlikely possibility, precautions could be taken; such as using a raft foundation or by raising the internal floor level above ground level. Furthermore, to assist the local community that my be prone to flooding, the larger buildings, such as the gym or museum could be opened up as a refuge centre to house people affected by the floods.

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Contextual Analysis

Contextual Analysis Transport

Surrounding Barracks

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, with these surrounding barracks shown above. Utilising this information helps to predict where the residents for rehabilitation courses are likely to be coming from, and ensure that there are good transport links.

As discussed previously, one of the aims of the project is to integrate the wider public and so tourism will play a huge role in that. With 7 million visitors to York each year, it is important to recognise how the majority of them will travel to the area. 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 train station is a half an hour walk, and is surrounded by large expanses of open land, lending itself to an idyllic location.

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. 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 is less than 15 miles, 25 minutes.

Therefore, with Phoenix House having to cater for such a large number of potential residents, it is obvious that there is an urgent need for additional rehabilitation centres. The centre I am proposing could take all the residents from York, leaving Phoenix House to manage soldiers from the remaining areas. There is also the possibility that the centre could become a template in order to be replicated elsewhere around the country.

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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. In conjunction with the map opposite, the transport links from the surrounding barracks are also good, allowing the potential residents easy access to the site.

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Contextual Analysis

Contextual Analysis Gradient

Elevation

Macro

Meso

Micro

Macro

York is an extremely low lying, flat landscape, surrounding by the Vale of York. As you can see through the varying scales, the majority of the site, as can be seen in the upper left corner of the micro scale view is extremely flat and low lying, although above the flooding zone 3, therefore at relatively low risk. The risk of flooding often associated with York has been discussed previously and the graphics above and opposite show why this risk is so great, with vast expanses of flat land.

Micro

Investigating the above gradient diagrams, with the elevation studies shown opposite, an image emerges to show that York is low lying and relatively flat with shallow, short gradients surrounding the local area. With such shallow gradients, a lot of the surrounding land is suitable to be built upon based on this criteria alone, however when analysed with the flooding information provided previously, it is easy to see why such a large expanse of York are flood plains. As you can see in the macro scale diagram, the area around the site has little to no gradient, therefore negating the need for substantial cut and fill exercises. However, as will be discussed within the accompanying Design Studio 3 workbook, the concept of ramping the site to create a change in levels between the various buildings will be developed. Utilising this concept will require a manipulation in the levels, as there is no natural gradient. This however is preferable as I can then amend the gradient to suit my design, as opposed to being forced into the design. On the following pages, further site analysis is conducted into environmental considerations.

As you can see in the above graphics, the buildings surround the site are on a similar level to that of the site itself, whilst towards the south east is an area of land that is again on a similar level to that of the site, without any natural or man made shelter offered. This therefore will allow any wind from this direction to generate a lot of force, although this should be a considerably warmer, Mediterranean wind, that the colder, Arctic wind produced from the north.

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Meso

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Contextual Analysis

Contextual Analysis Environmental Analysis Rainfall / Relative Humidity / Cloud Cover

180 120 60

May

Month

July

Sep

Nov

Day

Jan Mar

May

Month

July

Sep

Nov

I believe that all buildings should now be looking to be as energy efficient as possible. This does not simply mean using energy saving light bulbs, or cladding the roof with photovoltaic panels; but that the design itself should be energy efficient. Large expanses of north facing glass will be counter productive as little direct sunlight can reach the internals and the cooler northerly wind will conduct the heat from within. Therefore, understanding, evaluating and acting on site analysis is vitally important. 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. This means that there is the potential for solar gain during these summer months if there is a lot of south facing glazing, necessitating the need for some form of shading. Therefore, overhanging eaves could be utilised, to allow evening and low sunlight in, whilst preventing the warmer summer sun. Wind is going to be a significant factor in the project as there are often strong winds throughout the year. The southwesterly prevailing wind will bring with it warmer Mediterranean air. However, the surrounding houses and buildings can help protect the site from these winds, meaning that the cooler, northerly winds will be tangible and noteworthy. This is exaggerated by the large open land to the east, allowing the wind to pick up momentum. Therefore, landscaping to this elevation may be required to break up and reduce the speed of the wind, however this could be at the detriment of views Page 18

15 10

80 60 40 20

5 Jan Mar

Daily Cloud Cover (%)

240

Relative Humidity (%)

Wind Spped (mph)

Rainfall Duration (mins)

Rainfall (mm)

Temperature (˚C)

Environmental Analysis Temperature / Wind Speed / Rainfall

Day

Jan Mar

May

Month

July

Sep

Nov

Jan Mar

Day

May

Month

July

Sep

Nov

(Hrs)

of the scheme from the stray.

500 400 300 200 100

50 mph

<50

40 30 20

Key

270˚

January February March April May June

July August September October November December

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180˚ Improving the health of those who Serve

Day

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. Therefore, by avoiding allowing the rain to drain onto hard landscaping with little drainage, the rain could be directed to a water system which can either be used in the grey water functions of the scheme, or a water feature that flows through the site.

600>

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 occurring throughout the year, it may be possible to utilise some sort of harvesting system. Flash flooding also becomes a possibility in this situation if the ground is very dry, therefore this will need to be considered.

Jan Mar

90˚

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 too much that it increases the perceived temperature. With very little change throughout the year, there should be little need for any dehumidifier machines and so this information will require very little design consideration. 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.

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Contextual Analysis

Environmental Analysis Sun Path

Environmental Analysis Solar Shading

Spring Equinox

Autumn Equinox

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. Therefore, as the summer sun moves round to the south, solar gain will need to be considered as described previously.

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0900

1200

1500

1800

Summer Solstice

0900

1200

1500

1800

Autumn Equinox

0900

1200

1500

1800

Winter Solstice

0900

1200

1500

1800

Summer Solstice

Winter Solstice

In conjunction with the temperature graph listed previously, the solar analysis of the site is hugely important to help ensure that the project is efficient as possible. Using natural daylight, internal lighting costs can be limited; however it is also important to regulate the amount of solar gain, a common consequence of large expanses of glazing, as is seen in a future environmental precedence. Using this solar analysis information, the data can help to inform the design. For example, it would be beneficial to orientate the bedroom accommodation to the North, as these rooms require little daylight; whilst the activity spaces such as the workshops and offices, that require higher lighting levels should face South to make the most of the natural daylight. Further artificial light may be required for specific tasks as detailed in the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) (WHSW) Regulations.

Spring Equinox

10˚ 20˚ 30˚ 40˚ 50˚ 60˚ 70˚ 80˚

21:40

04:32

09:00 15:00

12:00

15:44

08:21

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Contextual Analysis

Bedroom : 19.5m2 En-Suite : 5.3m2

Programme

Programme Analysis

Resident’s Kitchen : 55m2

Accommodation

Meeting Space

Security Outdoor Spaces

Support Hub Office reception Support Hub : 200m2

Art Room

Museum : 180m2

IT Suite

Dining

Gym Shop Plant Museum

Exhibition Space

Kitchen

Workshop

Breakout Space

Private Public Gym : 350m2

Understanding how a series of spaces can be related to each other is a key principle in the initial design process. By grouping relating rooms such as a kitchen and a dining 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 the following page. 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 keep 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 are going to need to be areas that individuals can come to get away, possibly read or simply look out onto Walmgate Stray; as well as a space where families can convene and be together. The museum aspect of the project hopes to portray the injured soldiers in a positive 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. Individual’s stories are to be posted around the walls, with installations of war zones a possibility, as well as interactive displays. Page 22

Sustainability is one of the main driving points behind the design of the project. As many of the other PRC’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 posthumously fixing photovoltaic panels and wind turbines to the project. Furthermore, natural lighting and ventilation are known to improve social well being.

Art Room : 60m2 Dining Space : 180m2

Staff Offices : 200m2

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, thought the scheme will consist of around 40 bedrooms.

Kitchen : 60m2

Exhibition Space : 150m2

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Workshop : 100m2

Meeting Space : 65m2

IT Suite : 65m2

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Contextual Analysis

Ergonomic Considerations

All buildings constructed within the UK need to comply with the British Regulations; regulations that help to ensure that the building meets the needs of its occupants and is constructed in a safe manner. Catering for a building of this nature that will care for injured and disabled people is vital. 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. Shown above are a variety of images and diagrams showing the type of things which need to be considered. Ensuring that level access is accessible throughout the scheme is one of the most important things, as any steps will provide problems 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, especially in the bedroom accommodation where residents may wish to cook their own meals.

1480

1200

1000

1350

1450

1700

800

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. This decision was also influenced by the energy required to power the lift.

It is highly likely that some of the residents will either use a wheel chair or be mobility impaired. Therefore, understanding their ergonomic limits will be vital to ensure that they are not designed against and that everything is accessible. In the top left hand image, the diagram shows that for the average wheelchair user, the maximum height of reach is 1700mm. Therefore by placing a shelf at 1800mm would be discriminatory and useless to the resident. Furthermore, eye level for the wheelchair user is around 1400mm. If a window was positioned at or above this level, the user would not be able to see out. As a design feature, low level windows, with a head height of approximately 1500mm, may be incorporated into the scheme for the sole use of wheelchair users.

In order to ensure that the building would be passed by Building Control, I will continually make reference to and site the Building Regulation documents. This will not only be benefit to the scheme, but also on a personal level for my career. Building Regulations Part M

Building Regulations Part M

Also shown on this page are the regulations stipulating the gradients and lengths of ramps. As well as the gradient and length of ramp required, it is also necessary to consider the length of the landings, both at the top and bottom. Due to the nature of the buildings, I would use this information as an absolute minimum because of the increased possibility that two wheel chair users may be wanting to use a ramp at similar times.

Due to the size and requirements of a lift, 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; Page 24

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Contextual Analysis

Contextual Analysis Environmental Issues

Environmental Considerations

Served

Servant

Lighting

Private

Air Speed

Clothing

Work Rate

Ventilation Types

Air Exchange Rates

Ventilation

Air Temperature

Public

Mean Radiant Temperature

Relative Humidity

Environmental conditions are critical to ensure a comfortable internal environment for a building’s occupants. Displayed above are various requirements and criteria that should be considered. These range from natural conditions, such as air temperature and speed, to occupant dependent factors such as clothing and work rate.

and will also assist in giving the scheme a more open and welcoming appearance. Furthermore, research has found that there is a strong correlation between natural lighting and increased patient recovery, a useful consideration for a scheme of this nature.

There are six factors that determine thermal comfort: air temperature, air speed, mean radiant temperature and relative humidity. These environmental factors can influence the buildings internal conditions, 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 sat and expelling less heat energy.

British Building Regulations provide information and directives relating to ventilation and building fabric. Ventilation is covered in Approved Document Part F which discusses topics such as flow and air exchange rates, types of ventilation and how new buildings compare to existing buildings. In relation to the lighting levels, I propose to design for natural ventilation where ever possible. 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.”

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) give minimum guidelines which are shown in the table above, although these are not a statutory regulations. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) (WHSW) Regulations simply requires that lighting at work is “suitable and sufficient.” Therefore, specific tasks require higher lighting levels, such as desk work, may need a source of artificial light to complement the natural daylight. The HSE also places a huge emphasis that where reasonably practical, spaces should be naturally lit. This is one of the principle aims of my design - that as much of the spaces should be naturally lit. This will help to lower the running costs, Page 26

There are a plethora of other regulations that are required to comply against, however, the ones listed above 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.

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In previous pages rooms are related function-wise. This page displays similarities in the environmental aspects of rooms in conjunction with the information given opposite.. 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 likely to be on the perimeter of the building and it is this type of information that helps to decipher possible layouts of the building. By allowing rooms that require mechanical ventilation to be adjacent, or as close to each other as possible, runs of ducting can be reduced and energy saved.

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 centre diagram helps to show the privacy / public scale of the proposal. As you look down the list, the spaces become increasingly public, areas such as the exhibition and reception. 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 celebrate their achievements and sacrifices. One of the principle ways to achieve this is by engaging with the Reading this in conjunction with the tables and information listed opposite, I am able to view relationships between public as much as possible, meaning their will be a fine balance between too open so that the soldiers don’t feel safe, and different rooms’ properties. It is imperative that the building operates within “comfortable” climates; although “comfortable” too private that the public don’t know the facility exists. conditions are subjective. Therefore, the spaces are required to work within a range of environmental conditions that suit the average population and can be easily adapted to meet the needs of the occupants. 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 diagram above portrays rooms that can be naturally lit and ventilated; whilst rooms such as the kitchen and wood the pages previously, again helping to focus down potential layouts. A key example shown above is the exhibition space working workshop will require artificial light and mechanical ventilation as they have specific requirements. Some rooms which is linked to the art room and workshop. The main purpose of the exhibition space is to showcase the items made will require a mixture of natural daylighting and spot lights for specific activities; similarly some rooms will require both by the residents, assisting in improving the self esteem of the residents as they can see their work on display with people natural and mechanical ventilation in certain situations. Situating these rooms close to each other will reduce the amount admiring. of service ducting required, allowing ceilings to be higher and a smaller plant room. By utilising technologies such as heat Improving the health of those who Serve

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Key

Precedence

Art Room

Games Room

Precedence

Break Out / Dining Space

Spatial

Training Rooms / IT Suites / Gym

Staff Offices / Change

Storage

Circulation

Accommodation

Communal Kitchen

Second Floor

Communal Kitchen

First Floor

Phoenix House is a PRC located in Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, managed and financed by Help for Heroes. 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.

Social Space COO Office

Opposite 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 hold 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. Furthermore, the bedrooms are given maximum privacy, located on upper floors where visitors can’t see. However, due to the nature of some of the residents, this poses a safety problem in the event of a fire. A buddy system is employed where residents are responsible for other wheelchair users and assist them in getting out. However, I proposal is to have primarily single storey buildings, therefore reducing this risk and allowing every member the opportunity to escape. Furthermore, a lift is no longer required and therefore the energy bills are further reduced. However, the consequence of a single storey building is the need for larger floor area. Page 28

Centre OC’s Office Staff Office

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. The site offers little room for expansion, despite the centre needing to grow due to it’s continuing popularity, currently supports troops in their recovery, from Nottingham to Scotland, as well as Northern Ireland.

Another PRC managed and funded by Help for Heroes, is Tedworth House in Wiltshire, on the eastern edge of the Salisbury Plain where the military carry out a large amount of training, giving it an ideal location. The MoD has owned Tedworth House since 1897 when it bought the Salisbury Plain training area and since 2011 has leased it to Help for Heroes.

Social Space

Dining Space Breakout Space

Reception

The centre can accommodation 56 people and has further accommodation for a further 30 day attendees. Renovated from an old stately home, the plan, shown opposite, has had to be adapted to the home, as opposed to being designed with the residents in mind. This has lead to challenges as door ways will have had to have been widened to accommodation wheelchair users; likewise any steps through the building will require ramps installing. Renovating a building to meet the requirements of the residents is extremely difficult work, therefore a new build is ideal. In both of these schemes, the bedrooms have been arranged down long corridors, giving the sense of a medical facility. I want to move away from this and although Phoenix House encourage large, unobtrusive spaces on the ground floor, the large amount of circulation space appears to be a waste.

Servery

Breakout Breakout Space Space Retail

Lobby

Interview Room Conference Room

Charities Office

MAIN STREET

Staff Change

Classroom / IT Suite

Fitness Centre

Ground Floor

Alongside the main building, a state of the art ski-plex and sports centre have been constructed. The first of it’s kind skiplex is a indoor ski centre, with the ability to alter the gradient of the slope, built specifically to aid in the recovery process. The sports centre also includes a strength and conditioning gym, as well as a swimming pool. Although the scheme in York may not be large enough to accommodate a ski slope, the inclusion of a gym and swimming pool are vital tools in the rehabilitation process.

Staff Office

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Ground Floor

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Precedence

Environmental

Designed by Adam Khan Architects, the £8.6m Brockhole Visitors centre is located within one of the lakes of the Brockholes Nature Reserve, Preston. 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. This is a clever design decision as the water should then never enter the building; however it possessed many design difficulties.

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. However, skylights have been found to lose 35-45% more heat during colder weather as the heat rises. Therefore, it may be necessary to create a way of “closing off” the high ceilings during winter months. 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 (BMS). Cool air enters through the vents, mixing with the warmer air within the building, before being exhausted through the rooflights. To develop on this system, some form of heat recovery system could be used, to avoid having to constantly warm incoming air, again lowering energy costs.

In resemblance to my proposal, 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. Furthermore, skylights were used as they have been found to allow up to 30% more light in than the same sized window. 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 30

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Precedence

Environmental

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 and control.

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 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 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 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 and allow more natural daylight in.

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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.

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Precedence

Precedence Structure

Structure

Situated in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, Boyle & Petyt Primary School was looking to expand their premises to allow a greater number of children to attend their school. With a budget of £150, 000 and a quick build period required, the design team, at the request of the school governors who had seen similar projects, decided to use a SIPs construction.

The school had restricted time scales due to the manner of the funding, with a final construction deadline of March 2015, therefore SIPs is the perfect construction method. The first SIP was erected on the 15th December, 2014, with the final laid a week later on the 22nd December, 2014. With the structure built and weatherproof within a week, three months were left to finish the building. Thanks to the properties of SIPs, external and internal trades were able to be on site at the same time, further speeding up the build time and reducing costs.

The classrooms are a 100 m2 construction, covered by a larch cladding. The walls and roof are all built using a SIPs (Structurally Insulated Panel) construction method. Utilising this method, the overall thickness’s of external walls can be significantly slimmer. For example, when building a wall to achieve a U–value of 0.20 W/m2K using Kingspan TEK® Cladding Panels, the structure can be just 252.5mm thick. In comparison, a 100mm steel framed wall to achieve the same U–value may have to be 305.5mm thick, a 150mm steel framed wall to achieve the same U–value may have to have a wall 335.5mm thick.

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Compared to other construction methods, SIPs is unrivalled for speed as shown in the Boyle & Petyt Primary School. Another example is the St. Michael’s Primary School which was constructed within a single day. Therefore, little disruption will be caused to the neighbouring barracks and housing estates of the York site. Furthermore, there are minimal cost differences compared with traditional methods, hence why I plan to use the SIPs method.

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Precedent

Precedent Materiality

Materiality

The majority of materiality considerations thus far have been given to construction technologies most common in the civilian construction industry. In the armed forces, buildings are often temporary and lightweight. The images on this page highlight this, with tent structures being a favourite of the British Forces, with these structures often extremely large and clear space. The ethos of these buildings is quick to build and flexible use of space, similar principles to that of this scheme. Constructed similar to a large portal frame, the tents create large, clear span spaces. This is a useful characteristic as the scheme demands flexible spaces. Furthermore, the tents can be constructed with relative ease and can be reduced down to transportable sizes. They remind me of origami, an ancient art form that is explored on the following page. Another military technology, are HESCO barriers, as can be seen on the opposite page. Originally designed to act as flood barriers, this technology is the perfect embodiment of military construction. Effectively a flat pack construction method, the cages are unfolded, before being filled with the surrounding earth. This creates a strong, self contained building block that can then be used to build a large number of items. It is with this technology that I aim to use the Abstract Machines ethos and to â&#x20AC;&#x153;hackâ&#x20AC;? to create a new and developed technology. Page 36

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Precedence

Origami Studies

When looking through the current army construction methods, the primary aspect is that of lightweight and flexibility, that again reminds me of the origami. I decided to create a series of origami models that portray the armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s principles. The models shown on this page 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 drawing 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. The models shown on this page could easily be turned into a cage like system to be then filled with either earth or concrete. It is with this technology that I aim to construct the accommodation buildings. Considerations will have to be given into the materiality - whether to use the earth filled method, or concrete panels. This will be discussed in following pages. On the next page, the HESCO technology is explored in itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environmental considerations.

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Precedence

Precedence HESCO Technologies

HESCO Technologies

Protection

Day Time Thermal Mass

Cooler / Night Time Thermal Mass

Workers can construct the blocks themselves

Before cladding them in a variety of materials, using this cladding maintenance as a rehabilitation method, assisting in learning new skills

Due to the properties of the materials, and dense nature, utilising the HESCO technology would have substantial environmental benefits. The thickness of the earth filled 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 and can create both a day and night time heating strategy.

The underground plenum and ground source heat pump both work in similar ways. They use the understanding that the temperature relatively shallow in the ground, is constant. In the plenum, cooler air flows through the plenum, is regulated and heated by the warmer, underground air. As the temperature rises, so does the air, again causing convection currents. Instead of air, ground source heat pump use water as the heating element. The water flows underground, where it is heated, before being used to heat the building. In summer, where the ground temperature is cooler than the internal environment, the systems work in reverse and help to cool the internal.

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.

As shown on this page, this technology has the ability to be adapted to greatly enhance the environmental strategy. Additional benefits are also borne from the HESCO technology. The residents have the potential to help construct and maintain the centre; whilst the technology can be hacked and developed in line with the ethos of Abstract Machines, to be used as a frame for a climbing wall. On the following page, a number of other design principles are given.

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. By allowing the cooler air to enter at low level, it is then heated by both solar gains and the thermal mass, before re-entering the room at high level, for the cycle to restart. This method induces convection currents and is a great way of circulating the internal air. Page 40

Trombe Wall

Under Ground Plenum Ventilation

Ground Source Heat Pump

Improving the health of those who Serve

The internal cage created has the option to be fixed to with rock climbing grips, providing additional physical rehabilitation

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Precedence

Precedence Environmental Principles

Environmental Principles

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.

Throughout this workbook, I have stated that 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, from carefully considered and orientated openings, to high ceilings allowing the heat to circulate. 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 as was considered in the Brockholes Visitors centre. In the visitors centre, the rooflights were orientated towards the north, to prevent any solar gain whilst allowing a constant flow of light into the building.

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 and therefore donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t allow as much light in.

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.

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Summer

Precedence

Precedence Environmental Principles

Environmental Principles

Winter

(Hrs)

As part of the scheme, I believe it is essential to establish some basic environmental principles. Opposite is the wind rose data for the local area, which shows the prevailing wind coming from the south/ south west, as is common throughout the UK. This south easterly prevailing wind is from the warmer Mediterranean areas and so is likely to bring relatively warmer and more humid air. However, from the north comes the colder Arctic wind carrying colder air.

600>

500 400 300 200 100

50 mph

<50

The diagram above helps to portray this information. It shows that whilst the warmer prevailing south westerly wind is more frequent, there is a large housing estate and other buildings which will assist in blocking the strength of the wind on the site, protecting the site from the warmer wind. However, the northern part of the site is exposed to the colder northern winds, with a large expanse of open land allowing the cooler wind time to pick up speed. 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 and this will be exaggerated by the relatively frequent and strong cooler wind.

40 30 20 270˚

90˚

One of the primary functions of any building is to protect its inhabitants from the elements. To help a building perform better, i.e. suffer from less heat loss or 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. The above diagrams help to show that by using nature, summer and winter strategies can be devised that will complement the environment, use natural features, is low tech and will help to maintain the conditions of the internal conditions. Using natural landscaping such as deciduous trees, that drop their leaves in autumn and regrow them in the spring, the canopy helps to provide plenty of shade in summer and little in winter. In the summer when the sun is high in the sky, with less frequent wind, the foliage offered from the trees reduces the

Therefore, protection will be required to the northern side of the site to reduce the effect of the colder wind. Alternatively, by having relatively few windows along this side, the proposal could be inherently protected. Shown on the opposite page are possible ways of naturally protecting the buildings from the elements. Page 44

As noted throughout this workbook, there is a large expanse of land to the east of the site, requiring some form of protection from the elements. This Arctic 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 requiring more energy to heat the internals. I believe that by utilising landscaping techniques, as well as intelligent building designs, that this problem can be resolved in an aesthetically beautiful and natural way.

180˚

Improving the health of those who Serve

amount of direct sunlight reaching the building, reducing the solar gains and direct sunlight entering the building. Furthermore, the natural barriers will deflect the wind up and over a low lying building, which I have cited as requirement for the design. The winter strategy utilises the life cycle of the trees and their bare canopy. Without leaves, a greater amount of sunlight can pass through and help to heat and light the building. This will reduce the amount of mechanical heating and artificial lighting required, assisting in lowering the running costs and the overall self sufficiency of the building. 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. This natural strategy is, I believe, a more sustainable and energy efficient when compared with the Al Bahr Towers, which use the intelligent panels which open and close dependent on lighting levels. However, using the principles from both the Al Bahr Towers and Brockholes visitors centres will be key, and I shall adapt and hack them, using the ethos of Abstract Machines, into sustainable and natural environmentally friendly design features. On the following page, I investigate how a village typology building arrangement can be developed to maximise the natural strategy. Page 45

Building Description

Building Description Design Strategy

Design Strategy

Starting Point

Increasing Natural Elements

Private Spaces

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.

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 â&#x20AC;&#x153;protectâ&#x20AC;? the private, possibly shorter, buildings.

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.

By keeping the windows at a uniform height, as shown in the sketch below, this shading effect is enhanced.

Support Hub

Public Focus

Course Accommodation

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.

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 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 show an indicative layout based on the information I have accrued so far in the process - taking into account privacy, lighting, ventilation and size requirements.

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Building Description

Key Room Considerations

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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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Building Description

Building Description Building Orientation

Building Orientation

On the previous pages I was investigating the key rooms and their properties, on this page I will look into the orientation of the scheme. 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.

I have continuously cited the requirement for the scheme to offer absolute protection to the residents, whilst giving the impression that the scheme is open to the public. The top diagram opposite show the probable separation between the public (blue cross hatch) and private (grey diagonal hatch) spaces. The private space and entrance is adjacent to the barracks, with the possibility of a secure entrance to the rear of the site. Having a separate entrance is a principle learnt through discussions and research of Phoenix House. The public area is the full width of the easternâ&#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. Vehicular access is likely to come from the south west. Understanding how the public and residents are likely to enter the site is important information to use when deciding on the master planning and orientation of the various buildings.

The orientation of buildings can greatly effect how the wind is diverted around the 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 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 pressure is induced creating a suction effect. Turbulent air will also develop, which could cause uncomfortable areas for the residents and occupants of the external spaces. Creating a pleasant atmosphere is crucial to a successful project and by utilising a village style building type, micro-climates are likely to be produced in the courtyards.

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 to help protect against the elements. 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. However, in the accompanying Design Studio 3 workbook, I have cited the use of this technology of the accommodation buildings using this technology, with the surrounding public buildings using a SIPs construction method.

In future pages, I will depict how the roofs of the building can also be used to deflect and divert the wind up and away from the micro-climates created between the buildings.

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Building Description

Museum

Building Proposals

Support Hub

Bedrooms Family Bedrooms

Bedrooms Support Hub

Gym

Museum

Resident Centre

Bedrooms

Workshop

Museum Bedrooms Art Room

Staff Offices / Meeting Rooms / I.T. Suites

Exhibition Centre Gym

The site can be predominantly broken down into public and private spaces. Given the previous research, it was decided that the private buildings would occupy the centre and north west of the site, with the public buildings offering protection and shelter to the east and south. Given that the members of the public are likely to enter from the East, the main entrance in the museum is situated at the north east of the site. To combat against the cooler, northerly wind, the roof to the museum has been designed such as to divert the wind up and over the remaining building, thus offering a more pleasant micro climate within the site. With large expanses of curtain walling, the scheme aims to give the impression of a welcoming and open atmosphere, encouraging members of the passing public to come in and experience, not only some of the things these soldiers had to go through, but how they are beginning to recover and some of the activities they conduct in their rehabilitation. To the south east of the site is the exhibition centre. Here, artefacts and pieces of work produced by the residents will be displayed and sold, in order to generate funds for the charity which manage the site.

see on the opposite page, examples of the type of landscaping are shown. Landscaping is also used in order to provide shelter and privacy to the residents, without the need for high fences. All of the accommodation will have access to their own courtyard, shared with approximately three of four other residents. A main courtyard is to be located in the centre of the accommodation area, adjacent to the residents centre. Here, outdoor activities can take place, alongside it being a focal meeting area. The primary focus of the buildings is to provide a welcoming arena to allow the residents to rehabilitate during their short stay on site. Level access will be at all door thresholds, whilst the site aims to use the varying levels and ramps in order to create an activity based centre. The materiality of the buildings aims to distinguish between public and private places, with locally sourced materials deemed to be of benefit to the scheme. Working in conjunction with the landscaping, the materials are detailed and discussed on the following page.

Possibly as important as the buildings themselves is the landscaping. A mixture of surfaces will meander through the site, to allow the residents to familiarise themselves with walking on different textures. A stream will flow around the buildings, with the intention for this to be passed through a read bed and used in the grey water areas of the buildings. As you can Page 52

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Building Description

Building Description Building Proposals

Building Proposals

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

East Elevation Bedroom

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

South Elevation

Bedroom Exhibition

Workshop Office Office Office

Gym Change

Change

Office

Reception

West Elevation

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Structure & Materiality

Structure & Materiality Material Considerations - Public Areas

Material Considerations - Resident Areas

Support Hub

Bedrooms

Family Bedrooms

Bedrooms

Gym

Resident Centre

Bedrooms Bedrooms Museum

Workshop Museum Staff Offices / Meeting Rooms / I.T. Suites

Art Room Exhibition

The materiality of the residential areas of the scheme are hugely important and have to give a sense of protection and security. It is proposed that for these buildings, an advancement of the HESCO technology discussed previously is to be utilised.

The buildings to be occupied by members of the public are to have a different palette of materials. Whilst curtain walling is still to be used to providing a welcoming entrance to visitors; the structure and cladding are designed to contrast the earthier private buildings.

On the following page, analysis is conducted into the material to be used in this technology, with either concrete or rammed earth the options. When used in the battle field, earth is used to create the structures, as it is often more readily available than concrete. These materials also provide a huge amount of thermal mass, therefore offering further advantages than just their appearance.

The proposition is for the buildings to be clad in timber, a warm and tactile material. The type of timber to be used will depend upon cost and weathering; it is proposed that the maintenance of the timber is conducted by the residents themselves, in order to learn or teach skills to others, as part of their rehabilitation.

The HESCO technology is to be used on the sleeping accommodation and residents centre; whilst the support hub and staff offices are likely to be constructed from a structural system and clad in ashlar stone. This again helps to differentiate the resident areas from the other private spaces. Large expanses of curtain walling are to be used strategically in order to provide ample light and solar gain, something which needs to be considered, and to give a sense of openness. Page 56

Either zinc or slate tiles are to be used as a roofing finish. Zinc is a durable finish, which can be easily folded along the curves of the proposed roofs. Furthermore, the zinc requires little maintenance and is recyclable at the end of its life. A more traditional roof finish would be to use slate tiles. Slate is also an environmentally friendly and long lasting material; however can be considered to be quite a heavy element on the roof and a fragile option.

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Structure & Materiality

Structure & Materiality Structure Comparison

Structure Comparison

As stated on the previous page, the primary material for the residents accommodation will be a module developed incorporating the HESCO technology. 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. Developing on this concept, it would be possible to introduce the origami studies conducted previously, in order 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. 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 look to expand due to the forces being applied. This will cause the structure to flatten out, as shown in the diagram Page 58

central above.

Using a concrete form work as discussed previously, I developed a pattern detailed on the left, which in the image portrays what the module may look like. When investigating how the structure would react to forces being applied, the diagrams above show the loads being transferred to the vertical.

One way to combat this would be to use a piston type mechanism. Positioned as shown in the diagram 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.

When the module is in the horizontal, as depicted in the centre image, live loads (green dotted line) and dead loads (orange dotted lines) are transferred down the pitch of the concrete to the valley, where they are travel down the valley. This is also the same direction that rain water will take. When the forces reach the end of the valley, they are transferred into the vertical plane and distributed evenly to the foundation, detailed in upcoming pages.

Another option would be to use the folding pattern to create a form work, that can then be in-filled with concrete. The image to the top right shows the traditional HESCO technology being filled with earth. This is advantageous as the material is easy to come by, possible being reused from the existing site. However, the cages would need to remain in place to support the earth. However, if concrete was to be used, either poured in-situ or to create a prefabricated panel, the form work could be used on multiple building sites, whilst also creating a fascinating façade as seen in the image to the right.

On the following pages I investigate the type of construction method which can be used when producing the main public areas. I aim to use a different construction technology so that multiple trades have the possibility to be on site at once, in order to speed up the constructions process; but more over to create a clear differentiation between the public and private spaces.

In terms of pre-cast vs in-situ concrete panels, I believe that the better option for this site would be to use pre-cast panels. That is because they will be able to be fabricated in controlled conditions ensuring that they are produced correctly, whilst also allowing a quicker building time on site, with fewer pieces of specialist equipment required. Improving the health of those who Serve

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Structure & Materiality

Structure & Materiality Structure Comparison

Structure Comparison

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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Structure & Materiality

Structure & Materiality Structure Comparison

Structure Considerations

The design proposal for the residents centre is to have the “folded” concrete appearance to the majority of the building, with a large expanse of curtain wall looking out towards the Support Hub. The concrete and curtain wall technologies have two very different loading capacities and it is for this reason that I have decided to implement two different foundation techniques to the same building. Shown above in the grey diagrams are concept details for the curtain walling. Curtain walling itself is not designed to take any additional loads other than itself and environmental loads (wind / rain, etc.) Therefore, to carry the additional loads from the roof and support the curtain walling, I propose to use a steel frame structure or similar. Frame structures such as the one I propose to use, generate a point load, with a pad foundation generally considered the preferred foundation detail. A pad foundation is one of the most common forms of foundations, and in simple terms is a “box” of solid concrete, onto which the column sits. All of the dead and live loads then pass through the column, into the pad and dissipated into the surrounding earth. As you can see on the image to the top right, there is usually a concrete plinth beam that connects the pads, and which will support the curtain wall. Page 62

In contrast, the load bearing wall created by “folded” concrete will generate loads all the way along its structure. For this reason, I propose to use a strip foundation. Consisting of strip of concrete foundations, the concrete wall sits on top of the foundations and transfers the load, generated all the way along. This is a very common technique used in house constructions where masonry walls are common place. The image to the bottom right depicts a strip foundation.

As stated previously, the curtain walling can not carry the loads from the roof, therefore a lintel is effectively required to distribute the loads to the columns. I therefore propose to use a steel beam, which will connect to the columns, creating a steel framing unit, supporting the curtain walling in place, whilst carry the loads from the concrete roof to the pad foundations. I believe that there are two options for the frame; for it to be hidden within the concrete, or exposed, with both having positives and negatives. I consider the hidden beam to be the more aesthetically pleasing detail as in it’s appearance, it would look as if a heavy element is being supported by the lightweight curtain walling. However, to achieve this detail would be difficult as the concrete would need to be poured around the steel in place and then the curtain wall frame attached to the beam, which could possibly cause the concrete to fracture.

An alternative to these foundation types would have been a raft foundation, where strip foundation spreads across the entire building footprint. This type of foundation is useful when there is a basement involved, something which isn’t incorporated in the design. Raft foundations are useful where there is a high water table, as they help to create a barrier. I still may decided to use a raft foundation in the future; however for now I have opted to not use one because of the point loads generated by the steel frame.

Exposing the beam would obviously require it to be treated so that it isn’t effected by the elements. It would also create a clear division between the curtain wall and the concrete roof, though it would create an easier junction as the pre-cast concrete panel Improving the health of those who Serve

Improving the health of those who Serve

could sit on top. However, due to it being exposed, there could be the potential for thermal bridging and therefore the detail would require further development. Despite being the more difficult detail, I prefer to steel beam to be hidden away. An alternative to surrounding the beam in the concrete, is to create a thicker curtain walling frame and to hide the beam within this. I believe this to be the best option as pre-cast concrete panels can be used, the junction between the concrete and the steel beam is relatively simple, thermal bridging should be reduced and the aesthetic view still appears as if the heavy element is supported by the lightweight structure. Whilst the details shown on these pages are primarily for the residents centre, with relatively simple modifications they can be reproduced on the majority of the other buildings, with the principles and concepts being the same. On the following page, the structural and environmental tactics are explained.

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Structure & Materiality

Environmental Considerations

Exhibition

Office Office Workshop Bedroom

Office

Bedroom

IT Suite IT Suite

Bedroom Bedroom

Bedroom

Circulation

Bedroom

Break Out Space Circulation Bedroom

Bedroom

Kitchen Dining Space

Staff Bedroom Circulation

Reception

Army Office

Kitchen

Circulation

Bedroom Open Plan Offices

Echoing the ability of the Al Bahr towers, where the faรงade opened or close dependent upon the sun, the canopy for the scheme will open or close based on rain. A sensor will be located on the roof of the main residents centre, that then induces a current through the circuit that in turn heats the SMA. When this happens, the SMA will expand and cause the canopy to open, therefore protecting the residents as they travel around the site. When the rain has stopped and the current in the circuit stops, springs positioned along the hinged components will cause the canopy to close again. This canopy perfectly epitomises the main ethos of the scheme and Abstract Machine, that being utilising everyday materials and using computational analysis in order to create a structure that can redefine itself based on external parameters.

IT Suite

Bedroom Bedroom

Bedroom Bedroom Meeting Room

On the previous page, I evaluated a number of structural considerations and on this page, I look at the environmental considerations. Shown on the opposite page is a canopy concept I developed in DSIT C and will be further developed in DSIT B. The concept derived from creating a canopy that was lightweight and self supporting, that could open / close independently based on external parameters. Utilising tent materials that are inherently flexible, lightweight and weatherproof, as well as a smart material, known as Shape Memory Alloy (SMA), that has the ability to change its shape, dependent on heat, the canopy form evolved.

Bedroom

Circulation

Bedroom Bedroom Bedroom

Circulation

Family Bedroom Family Bedroom Family Bedroom

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Reception

Office

Meeting Ro

Meeting Room

Offices Offices

Shop Family Bedroom

IT Suite

Structure & Materiality

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The diagram in the bottom left shows where the canopies will be located, in order to provide shelter for the residents as they walk around the bedroom accommodation blocks. Further analysis and development will now need to be conducted in order to understand how the rain water and additional loads will impact the canopy. This is because the structure, although self supporting, is not designed to withstand extra load. Therefore, the shape may need to curve as the curve is considered to be a stronger shape, than the linear form in which the canopy creates at the moment. An additional environmental consideration, as I have alluded to throughout this workbook, is the cold, northerly wind. There are a number of options on how to design with this wind in mind, with the orientation of the buildings discussed on page 50. Shown above are diagrams that depict how the earth could be raised in order to block the wind, with the slope graded towards the direction of the wind. This is to direct the wind up and over the buildings. An alternative to this, and the option that I have used so far, is to have the roof coming down to the ground. Although this will be blocking out the sunlight, the roof will be orientated towards the north where very little direct sunlight comes from. As you can see in the image shown above, the northerly wind is directed up and over the building, with the external walls offset from this elevation. These considerations are vitally important as I continue through the design stages in the upcoming years. On the following page, I investigate structural and environmental tactics for the residents centre. Page 65

Structure & Materiality Structural Tactics

Dead loads are forces generated by the building itself and it’s mass; and are a continuous and permanent force on the building. As the dead force is constant, it is a lot easier to calculate and design for. When the dead load and the live loads are combined, a total “gravity load” is calculated; the force which travels in the direction of gravity.

Live loads are not only created from the occupants, but also wind, rain and snow. They are usually temporary loads, however, furniture can be positioned in the same location for a long time. Because they are temporary, the maximum load needs to be considered to ensure the structure doesn’t fail. Furthermore, the load will not necessarily be in the vertical axis, it could be directional, something which will need to be designed for.

To support the load above the curtain walling generated by the roof, a steel frame and ring beam is to be utilised. This will carry the live and dead loads from the roof, down the frame to the pad foundations. As the curtain walling is a non structural element, these forces wouldn’t be able to be distributed without an additional frame.

Pad foundations are used to support the steel frame which will transfer the dead and live loads from the roof, as well as supporting the curtain walling, to the ground. With the curtain walling not carrying any of the loads, all of the loads will be concentrated through the columns.

Understanding the structural loads is extremely important in order to develop structural strategies. Shown on this page are the development stage considerations for the residents centre, the main day space for the residents. As detailed previously, there are two types of foundations which take the dead (orange lines) and live (green lines) down to the stabilising soil.

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Structure & Materiality Environmental Tactics

Thick concrete walls posses large amounts of thermal mass, helping to regulate the internal temperature of the building. The concrete will absorb the suns heat throughout the day, helping to keep inside cool, before slowly releasing the stored heat through the evening as the internal temperature cools. This process will not only help to keep energy bills down, but will provide a pleasant atmosphere for the residents. A key consideration in this detail though will be the location of the insulation, as it could possibly hinder the concrete’s thermal mass properties.

High ceilings will allow the space around which people will be moving to be kept at a cooler temperature, as the heat rises above head height. This heat is the absorbed by the thermal mass in the concrete, before being radiated as the internal temperature cools.

Large expanses of curtain walling facing towards the west will allow plenty of natural sunlight to flood into the building, increased by the tall ceiling height. The proximity is shares to the neighbouring buildings will cast shadows help to prevent solar gain.

A raft foundation was considered as the floor build up could be constructed directly on top of the raft. At present, I have decided against using a raft foundation because of the point loads generated by the steel columns. After further design however, a raft foundation may be used.

Strip foundations are used under the concrete wall to support the distributed load generated by the wall and roof.. As detailed previously, loads are distributed evenly along the concrete folds in the roof, before being transferred to the walls and then foundations.

Improving the health of those who Serve

The solar gain will also be considered when the canopies are introduced which link the main residents centre to the sleeping accommodation. These will help to protect the residents from the rain, but also assist in reducing the amount of solar gain created in the centre. This is a similar concept to that used in the Brockholes Visitors centre researched in the precedence chapter.

Improving the health of those who Serve

In order to create an internal environment that is pleasant for the occupants to be in, it is important to understand the environmental factors. Detailed above is the developing environmental strategies for the Residents centre.

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Structure & Materiality

Structure & Materiality References

Conclusion

The process conducted through this investigation work book has proved to be hugely influential on the overall design and integral to the development of the project. Beginning with the contextual analysis, it was of great importance to understand the historical side of York. Given that the rehabilitation centre is focused on service personnel and located next to the Imphal Army Barracks, it was interesting to research the military background of York and which helps to give the scheme a grounding in York. Furthermore, one of the principle aims of the scheme is to take the stigma away from the injured and help to create a relationship between the army and the general public, with any design layouts being analysed against this ethos.. York is a landmark city in the north of England for tourism, therefore conducting research into numbers and transport links is significant research when designing the public areas of the scheme. It was found that the site has extremely good transport links, for not only the surrounding barracks, but also the tourist population that will be visiting. As with all projects, understanding the environmental factors of the site are important when beginning the design. Due to the climate differences between a British summer and winter, the data had to be sourced throughout the year, in order to create a building which would cope well in the warmer summer days, and colder winter nights. One of the primary findings of this environmental research was that of the cold, northerly wind which will pass over the adjacent Walmgate Stray and carry on through the site. In order to design against this, concepts were derived looking to divert this wind around the buildings. In the proposed scheme, the roof to the museum situated in the north eastern part of the site slopes from ground level to first storey. This is in aim to lift the wind up and over the buildings, whilst offering an interesting aesthetic view from the pedestrian entrance. Investigations were also carried out into the environmental aspects of the internals of the proposed scheme, with it noted that the majority of the scheme being able to be both lit and ventilated naturally, essential to creating a sustainable design. Visiting Phoenix House, Catterick, the Help For Heroes’ specially designed rehabilitation centre was invaluable when looking at spacial precedence and the required sizes and programme for my scheme. Unlike Tedworth house which was refurbished, Phoenix House was designed with the primary focus of rehabilitation, the same ethos as this scheme. After meeting with the manager at Phoenix House, she described the need for additional space in the gym, with the added requirements of a pool. I took all of their feedback and ergonomic design considerations on board; whilst also including a few additional public spaces, such as the museum, to help integrate the public into the scheme. The obvious need for differentiation between public and private spaces therefore became a new driver in the project, with the safety and security of the residents a principle concept. When investigating the materiality for the project and common structures familiar to the service personnel, I came across the HESCO technology, reminiscent of the art-form, origami. I set upon devising a technology which would incorporate the principles of both technologies, to produce a system which I would use in the residents accommodation. Investigations took place into the proposed material and it was found that by using concrete, the intricate folds would be able to be created to create a fantastic façade. In contrast to the “heavy” looking concrete, the public spaces are to constructed from SIPs before being clad in timber. This contrast in materials is to help differentiate the public and private spaces. In conclusion, I believe that this workbook has helped to demonstrate that a number of strategies and tactics have been developed and considered, both in terms of structure and environment. A landscaping strategy is to be developed which will assist in the rehabilitation aspect, as well as separating the public and private areas. It is also hoped that the landscaping can assist in the environmental aspects of the design, with a reed bed being proposed to help filter the rain water. The design will now continue to evolve over the coming months to further test the capabilities of the HESCO technology to create a memorable design. I am pleased with the present design, though believe further investigation and research into the village building typology will be needed to enhance the aesthetics and environmental strategies. Page 68

Interviews Melanie Dickinson - Executive Officer, Phoenix House, Catterick (Help for Heroes) Bob Pearson - Facilities Manager, Phoenix House, Catterick (Help for Heroes) Site Visit Phoenix House, Catterick Websites & Reports Arch Daily, 2015. Al Bahr Towers. [Online] Available at: http://www.archdaily.com/270592/al-bahar-towers-responsivefacade-aedas [Accessed 29 10 2015]. BD Online, 2015. Brockholes Wetland Nature Reserve, by Adam Khan Architects. [Online] Available at: http://www. bdonline.co.uk/brockholes-wetland-nature-reserve-by-adam-khan-architects/5024095.article [Accessed 14 11 2015]. British Army, 2015. The Yorkshire Regiment. [Online] Available at: http://www.army.mod.uk/infantry/regiments/23987. aspx [Accessed 15 11 2015].

Department of Energy & Climate, 2014. Energy Trends, London: Department of Energy & Climate. Environment Agency, 2015. Flood Warning Area Detail. [Online] Available at: http://apps.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood/34681. aspx?area=122WAF946 [Accessed 07 10 2015]. Health and Safety Executive, 2016. Health and safety legislation - laws in the workplace. [Online] Available at: http://www. hse.gov.uk/legislation/ [Accessed 18 01 2016]. Help for Heroes, 2015. Phoenix House. [Online] Available at: http://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/how-we-help/recoverycentres/catterick-north-yorkshire/ [Accessed 18 10 2015]. HESCO, 2015. HESCO. [Online] Available at: http://www.hesco.com/products/defensive-barriers/ [Accessed 01 12 2015]. HM Government, 2015. Access to and Use of Buildings; Part M Approved Document. 2015 ed. London: NBS. Met Office, 2015. York Climate. [Online] Available at: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/climate/gcx4zrw25 [Accessed 28 10 2015]. The Telegraph, 2012. Interactive map: England’s green belt. London: The Telegraph. Visit York, 2015. Research & Statistics. [Online] Available at: http://www.visityork.org/members/about/statistics.aspx [Accessed 07 11 2015].

British History Online, n.d. A History of York: The Barracks. [Online] Available at: http://www.british-history.ac.uk/vch/ yorks/city-of-york/pp541-542#fnn37 [Accessed 08 11 2015]. City of York.com, 2016. Business statistics for York: Population and Employment. [Online] Available at: http://www. cityofyork.com/econfact/stats.htm [Accessed 28 10 2015]. Page 69