Maisäss Preservation and Revitalization Master’s Thesis Book
University of Liechtenstein Master of Sience (M.SC.) Winter 2017-18 Ehab Hamdy
Maisäss Preservation and Revitalization Ehab Hamdy Master thesis in the department of architecture Graduate School University of Liechtenstein To obtain the degree “Master of Science in Architecture” Master of Science (M.SC.) Winter 2017-2018 Supervisors: Prof. Anne Brandl Dipl.Ing.Martin Mackowitz
Fürst-Franz-Josef-Strasse, 9490 Vaduz, Liechtenstein
Acknowledgment I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the people whom I believe without them this work would haven’t been possible. First Thanks to my thesis prof. Anne Brandl for her continuous feedbacks, motivation, support and endless patience. Without her valuable input through the semester I would haven’t reach this level,Thank you. Thanks to Martin Mackowitz, always pushed me with his constant trust in me and he was always there in my downs, I appreciate it so much. I am in debt to all my tutors and professors from the university of Liechtenstein. I am thankful to all the research, expert and locals for there valuable input which helped in forming the background for my project. Thanks to the students participants of my studio for the help I got and for each of the four groups (analog model, booklet,exhibition and specially we_are_vr). Finally, To the most important people in my life my family. Thank you so much for always being there for support, help and love. My big brother Ahmed, no body in the world gets me like you. Thank you for being there. Mum, No words can describe how much you suffered in your life to make us better, thank you for being you. I owe you Everything.
Table of Content 01. Abstract ....................................................................................................................06 02. Introduction ...............................................................................................................10 2.1 General Introduction 2.2 Vorarlberg 2.3 Grosses Walsertal 2.4 UNESCO Biosphere Park 2.5 Walser
03. Maisäss.......................................................................................................................24 3.1 Transhumance 3.2 Maisäss Land & Buildings
04. Herbalism.....................................................................................................................36 4.1 Botanical Knowledge
05. Project Background.....................................................................................................44 5.1 Studio Focus 5.2 Research Gap 5.3 Aim & Research Question 5.4 Methodology
06. Project.........................................................................................................................50 6.1 Project Story Board 6.2 Project Time-line 6.3 Connectivity 6.4 ADD ON 6.5 ADD ON +
07. Epilogue.......................................................................................................................82 7.1 Conclusion
08. Virtual Reality..............................................................................................................86 8.1 Introduction 8.2 Diary 8.3 Conclusion
09. Sources ......................................................................................................................92 9.1 List of references 9.2 List of figures
10. Appendix....................................................................................................................102 11.Affidavit......................................................................................................................108
Fig 01 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
01
Fig. 01
7 I Abstract
Abstract
Abstract Grosses Walsertal valley was able to maintain its unique cultural qualities from the fast-growing settlements that stretch from Bregenz in the lower region of Vorarlberg state up to the valley’s doorsteps. But will the Valley last long in this struggle of being able to preserve their cultural values and rural qualities or they just give in; becoming part of this suburban stretch. The valley is already affected by this suburban carpet and other factors; It starts gradually to lose some of its rural characteristics or the problem of abandons due to lack of jobs within Grosses Walsertal valley. This research project focuses on one of the cultural values currently being lost which is the Maisäss region. The Maisäss is part of a long traditional practice called transhumance or known as the multi-level economy. It is moving the livestock to grazing land down in the valley in winter and up to the mountaintop in summer. Making a break in the middle which is the Maisäss. The middle region is being abandoned due to economic reasons, leaving behind centuries of inherited land and buildings to fall into disrepair. So the research design project is dealing with this area in an attempt to preserve the rich cultural heritage and to revitalize this region to become an attraction to help in creating jobs which can reverse the population decline happening in the last couple of decades. The project tries to preserve and revitalizes the Maisäss region throw several sensitive and minimal steps. Such as implementation of botanical-production and recreational usage in this abandoned area in an attempt to conserve the Maisäss stables and to attract slow tourism which doesn’t break the fragile relationship between man and nature. The project is on a Timeline which begins in the year 2020 and ends in 2050.
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Fig 02 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
02
Fig. 02
11 I Introduction
Introduction 2.1 General Introduction In the past decades the region of the Prealps, the Rhine Valley and the area of Lake Constance have been changing. Especially the lower part of Vorarlberg has become a big suburban carpet which is in constant increase. The location of the Valley of Grosses Walsertal is in the middle of Vorarlberg, Yet it did not change as the rest of the surrounding regions. Grosses Walsertal geographical features made it unique because it was able to preserve its cultural landscape qualities from the fast-growing rhythm happening at Vorarlberg region in the last 15-20 years. Thus this growth which is happening around Grosses Walsertal is a threat to wipe out these unique cultural landscapes. This threat made Grosses Walsertal in need to maintain their existence as a distinctive culture and to create a clear image of themselves among the surrounding regions.(Brandl, 2017,p.1). In Studio Brandl Winter semester 2017-18 at the University of Liechtenstein, the focus was on Grosses Walsertal as a case study on these urban landscapes. The studio is dealing with Grosses Walsertal future by developing urban visions which can help this unique cultural landscape to maintain its identity and to strengthen its position against the widespread of settlements which are happening in the state of Vorarlberg. The studio will not just deal with urban vision but also jump into specific urban designs and architectural situations.(Brandl, 2017,p.2)
-Fig 03 “Satellite image of Vorarlberg� Google earth.
Introduction
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Fig. 03
13 I Introduction
2.2 Vorarlberg The location of Vorarlberg is on the west side of Austria surrounded by one Austrian state which is Tyrol and three countries which are Germany, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. It is the second smallest state in size and population in Austria, yet it is the second in the highest population density. It’s biggest cities are Bregenz, Dornbirn, and Feldkirch in which the three of them are located in the western region of the state. With Bregenz being the capital yet it is smaller regarding population than Dornbirn and Feldkirch. In the regions between and surrounding the biggest three cities in Vorarlberg has been changing in the past decades. The form of Vorarlberg region was a village like settlements structure now it is becoming a big continues suburban stretch. These settlements stretch from Bregenz in the western north to Bludenz in the lower middle part of Vorarlberg. It is demonstrated in the maps on the right page in the map “ Vorarlberg population.” It is clear from a look at the plans that this suburban stretch isn’t happening all over the state. This suburban stretch it keeps growing by time becoming very seamless settlements, in which each village is swollen by this march of this suburban carpet. Weakening the positions and diversity of these communities. Grosses Walsertal is one of the valleys that still not affected much by this phenomena but will it last long.
- Fig.04 Vorarlberg Location in Austria By the author. - Fig.05 Vorarlberg Analysis By the author.
Introduction
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Fig.04
Vorarlberg borders
Vorarlberg population
Fig.05
Vorarlberg inner borders
Vorarlberg traffic
Grosses Walsertal borders
Vorarlberg regions
G.W inner borders
G.W Villages
15 I Introduction
2.3 Grosses Walsertal Grosses Walsertal is a steep V-shaped valley with almost no valley at the bottom. It is the center of Vorarlberg state. Neighbored by the Walgau region and the valley end is bordered by Bregenz forest. The Lutz river is passing in the center of the valley with almost 25 km long and ends at the Walgau region in the municipality of Bludesch in the Ill river. The total valley area is approximately 192 km² ranging from 580 up to 2704 m in height. The total inhabitants of Grosses Walsertal are around 3400 people. Unlike the rest of the country and the state of Vorarlberg Grosses Walsertal has low inhabitants per km² which are 18 people per one km². This low inhabitants per one km² Make it a unique rural place with a tranquil, secluded setting. The valley geology is 42% Flysch and 58% Eastern Alpine. The Land use in Grosses Walsertal is distributed as the following : 38% alpine pasture, 34% woodland, 15% unproductive area, 12% agriculture, < 1% infrastructure and < 1% residential. (Facts and Figures, n.d.). The Valley division is six municipalities which are: (Thüringerberg 719 inhabitants, Sankt Gerold 397 inhabitants, Blons 345 inhabitants, Fontanella 454 inhabitants, Sonntag 678 inhabitants, Raggal 879 inhabitants).
-Fig 06 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
Introduction
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Fig. 06
17 I Introduction
The location of five municipalities out of six are on the sunny side of the valley, Due to the importance of the sun, providing the warmth that is important in such cold weather and for the pastures and meadows also. Another reason is that the valley is less steep on the sunny side making it more convenient to still down yet the inhabitants of the valley the Walser tribe are used to settle in such harsh landscapes. The population of Grosses Walsertal is mostly located at the valley entrance yet Fontanella and Sonntag are near the end. In each municipality has the basic services like a bank, fire station, library, kinder garden and they share the police station between the six, its location is in Sonntag. The major labor fields in the valley are: Production of goods: 342 workers Trading: 188 workers Construction: 179 workers Agriculture and Forestry: 133 workers Accommodation and catering: 130 workers Social services and health: 120 workers Public administration: 107 workers (Statistik Austria, Ein Blick auf die Gemeinde, n.d) About 70% of Grosses Walsertal inhabitants commute outside the valley in the neighboring regions. Due to lack of jobs in the valley and people gradually shifting away from agriculture and dairy business because it became uneconomical as it as before.
-Fig 07 “Population map of Grosses Walsertal” By the author. -Fig 08 “3D model of Grosses Walsertal ” By the author.
Introduction
Fontanella
454
Sonntag
Sankt Gerold ThĂźringerberg
718
Blons
678
345 397
Raggal
879
Village location water
Fig 07
Fig 08
Boarder line
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19 I Introduction
2.4 UNESCO Biosphere Park In the year 2000 Grosses Walsertal became a UNESCO Biosphere park. The Biosphere park is a program by the UNESCO in which it is more flexible than protected area, The concern of this program is with the relation between man and nature. Seen as an opportunity to explore this relationship yet taking in consideration social, economic and cultural aspects as well as environmental concerns. The three zones division of the UNESCO biosphere park are; Core area in which it is legally protected for conservation, Cultivation zone which is used for research/monitoring/education/ training and last the Development zone in which it’s for sustainable developments. (UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Program: What are biosphere reserves all about?, n.d.).
Legally protected for conservation
Research, monitoring, education, training
Sustainable Development
Fig 09
-Fig 09 “UNESCO Biosphere park zoning” Adapted from (Schaaf, Thomas, n.d) -Fig 10 “UNESCO Biosphere park zoning in Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
Introduction
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Fig 10
Map Key: Core area 17% Development zone 13% Cultivation zone 69%
21 I Introduction
2.5 Walser Grosses Walsertal name comes from the Walser tribe who are the inhabitants of the valley. This tribe is from the canton of Valais in Switzerland. 700 years ago they moved to the valley. Little known why they start immigrating from their home, but a typical guess is to seek for new agriculture lands with less populated areas for the new generations. The Walser people entered the valley and started to cut the forest to clear space for the house and pastures for the cattle which was crucial for the Walser existence. The Walser was quite known for being physically tough people used to rough terrains and mountain farming like the situation in Grosses Walsertal. They used to be the logistics of the alps as they used to transport for people and goods. On behalf of the Monfort they controlled the borders in this impassable region (Grosses Walsertal and the surroundings) in return, they were free farmers and paid just little interest. One of the unique agricultural habits they had is the three-level agriculture or the multi-level economy. There are 17 Walser communities in Vorarlberg region with a population of 13,700. In the year 2013 they commemorate 700 years of Walser in Vorarlberg. They have museum & library for Walser; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s located in Grosses Walsertal. (700 Jahre Walser in Vorarlberg, n.d).
-Fig 11 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Walser Imagration mapâ&#x20AC;? By the author.
Introduction
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Boarder line Upper Valais & Walser Trail Suspected trail Fig 11
Fig 12 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
03
Fig. 12
25 I Maisäss
Maisäss 3.1 Transhumance In Grosses Walsertal they have the farming tradition of transhumance, in which they move livestock from one grazing land to another in a seasonal cycle. This Cycle is divided in to three parts: Heimgut (is located down in the valley and it is the permanent residence and they spend winter in it), Alpe (its location is near the mountaintop, and they spend summer there) and Maisäss (is the transition part between the permanent residence down in the valley and the summer stay near the mountaintop). This cycle is called Multi-level economy because they used to produce and sell milk and dairy products at every stage. The Maisäss culture has been in practice for so many centuries in Grosses Walsertal; this tradition has not only shaped this cultural landscape for centuries, but it shaped the social and cultural life of the farmers. The maize landscape still contributes to the regional identity of the population even today. (Alpen im Tal, n.d).
Recently, in the last couple of decades due to the restrictions on producing the milk, which made it uneconomical for farmers to produce milk in the Maisäss region. So farmers started to skip this middle stage of farming, abandoning the Maisäss buildings, pastures, and meadows with unplanned future.
-Fig 13 “Transhumance Section” By the author.
Maisäss
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2400M
2000M
Alpe
1600M
Maisäss
1200M
Heimgut
800M
Fig. 13
27 I Maisäss
3.2 Maisäss Land & Buildings The Maisäss building and the cultivated land it has importance not only as a cultural heritage that should be preserved but also it’s existence is essential for biodiversity which is one of the leading characteristics of Grosses Walsertal. The cultivated land which for 600-700 year has been passed from generation to other to graze their cattle could in just a few years become lost. The problem is that the forest and native shrub easily overtakes this open meadows and pastures. In a naive perspective, it may sound fair in which nature is reclaiming back what human have taken, yet it isn’t like at all. One of the major problems is this native shrub (Green alder) is killing the biodiversity that the Walser have created with there activities. Also, the roots of the green alder are not stabilizing the slopes and making the soil more likely to erosion. Adding to that it contaminates the water with nitrate and the green alder have more evaporation rate higher by 20% than the meadows and Pastures that it replaces which will affect the hydro-electric power production in the dam at the end of the valley. (O’Dea, 2012). Not just the land but also the Maisäss building, some changed for touristic uses other became just abandoned losing the relationship between the pastures and the buildings. Losing with that one of the leading cultural characteristic and values of the Walser people. The most abandoned typologies are the stables, Milk, and cheese cellars because they have no functional use for them. Falling into disrepair with no plans to reuse or preserve them.
-Fig 14 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
Maisäss
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Fig. 14
29 I Maisäss
This current situation leaves us with the question is the Maisäss buildings and Pastures will fall into disrepair, or it will become over utilized with intensified touristic use. So the research topic will be dealing with preservation and rehabilitation of Maisäss, in an attempt to develop integrated solutions that take into account the various interests in use. This issue is not just in Grosses Walsertal it is also in other regions which the Walser people have settled too.
So I started at the beginning the process of documenting and mapping the Maisäss region in Grosses Walsertal. On the right page, the upper map shows the Zones of the Maisäss areas which are eight regions. The identification of each Maisäss part is by its relation with the Heimgut and Alpe. Also, each region is accessed vertically because of transhumance action; Making the eight Maisäss areas isolated from each other. All of the Maisäss areas that the research focuses on location are on the sunny side of the valley in which five out of the six municipalities are in the valley. In the lower map, it shows the location of the previously mentioned abandoned stables in the eight Maisäss regions.
-Fig 15 “Location of Maisäss in the Grosses Walsertal” By the author. -Fig 16 “Location of the stables of Maisäss in the Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
Maisäss
Fig 15
Fig 16
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31 I Maisäss
The most abandoned typology is the stables in the Maisäss areas. So part of documenting these stable was mapping them out which was shown on the map on the previous page. On the right page is part of studying this typology, these pictures for some of the stables in the region. These stables vary in shape and size, yet the stable sizes in the Maisäss usually are smaller than the ones in the permanent residence the Heimgut and the ones in the Alpe; due to the short time spent there. The stables materials mostly wood construction with stone base acting as a protector from the water. Other’s stables walls are of stones, but the roof is still wooden. Not all of the abandoned building are stables, as mentioned earlier the milk and cheese cellars also. Observation of these buildings is how pragmatic they are. These stables are built purely for a functional purpose and this how they are designed. This pragmatism can be seen by observing the facade images on the right, how the installation of different materials together are or how there is opening when needed to dry the hay for example. By looking into these stables, it gives a sense of the mindset of the valley inhabitants which is very important for any future interventions in the valley.
-Fig 17 “Collection of picture for stables in the Maisäss regions” By the author.
Maisäss
Fig 17
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33 I Maisäss
While studying these abandoned typologies, part of this study was to draw them. On the right page is an example of a big stone stable with wooden roof and two milk cellars. Most of the previously drawn stables, Milk and cheese cellars examples were one story buildings. There are multiple level stables which are found in Grosses Walsertal. The diagrams below this paragraph show the relation of the stables to the houses of the farmers. Most of the stables are attached to the residence of the farmers yet also the stable being separate structure can be found in Grosses Walsertal too. What is shown in the diagrams down shows the different possibilities found in the Maisäss regions.
Fig 18
-Fig 18 “Stables Typologies in Grosses Walsertal” By the author. -Fig 19 “Section, Facade and plan of a stable” By the author. -Fig 20-21 “Facade and plan of a Milk storage” By the author.
Maisäss
Fig 19
Fig 20
Fig 21
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Fig 22 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
04
Fig. 22
37 I Herbalism
Herbalism 4.1 Botanical Knowledge When the Walser arrived in Grosses Walsertal and started to clear land for their houses and for the cattle to graze by cutting forest this action was helpful for biodiversity in which a lot of flowers and plants was able to grow in the open meadows. Due to Grosses Walsertal geographical setting, it was hard for the inhabitant to go out, the Walser people were in some isolation in the valley. This separation made them sustain them selfs from the surrounding nature. One of the unique thing in the valley is that they started to develop a comprehensive knowledge of the herbs and their uses either medicinal, Nutrition or for their cattle. This accumulated knowledge has been inherited from generation to another for almost 700-600 years. This Inherited Herb traditions and knowledge are unique because in the surrounding region they could have probably most of the herbs which are growing in the valley, but they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t acquire the botanical knowledge as the inhabitants of Grosses Walsertal. This Herbâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s knowledge that the inhabitants of the valley have, it is an example of the UNESCO biosphere park; in which it represents the relationship between man & nature. Due to the inhabitants of the valley actions the meadows were able to grow then they relayed on these meadows and pasture to provide for them Shelter, Food, and Medicine. In some way, both used to depend on each other for survival.
Herbalism
List of the available used herbs in Grosses Walsertal
Shepherd’s Purse
Cranesbill
Feverfew
Wild strawberry
Bloodroot
White deadnettle
Meisterwurz
Wild marjoram
Hellebore
Ground ivy
Plantain
Meadowsweet
Chicory
Verbena
Stinging nettle
Horsetail
Quendel,medicinal thyme
Lady’s mantle
Tansy
Birch
Mugwort
Verbena
Yarrow
St. John’s Wort
Red Clover
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39 I Herbalism
The herbs are not just part of traditional habits; It is economic potential also. There is a group in the Valley which called “Alchemilla Kräuterfrauen” which they are a group of local women from the valley in which they are trying to convey the diversity of natural and cultivated herbs. Also, they are trying to bring old and new ways of using them thus to understand the importance of herbs for the inhabitants. (Alchemilla Kräuterfrauen, n.d.). I started mapping the herbs that grow in the Maisäss region and what these herbs are used for and what can be done with it. So by tracing several herbs that grow in the Maisäss region; I was able to find three patterns of possible herbs themes that can be created from the available herbs. The three areas are Supplemental usages, Essential oils & medicinal Usages. The three themes of herbs have potential in the valley which it can become places for Botanical production and recreation because the valley has a variety of herbs which have several applications and the inhabitants have the knowledge of these herbs which comes from the oral teaching which they inherit for centuries.
-Fig 23 “Diagram of herbs uses” Adapted from (Grasser,S., Schunko,C., Vogl,C., 2012).
Herbalism
1.4% 7.2%
Nutrition
7.9%
Medicinal 45.5%
38%
Veterinary Other Decoration
Fig 23
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41 I Herbalism
Medicinal Uses In the valley, they have a saying which says make a mixture of seven herbs and drinks it illness will not visit you. The Inhabitant of the Valley due to it geographical & topographical setting made it difficult to go outside. Due to that, they developed traditional medicines from herbs. This knowledge has been passed from generation to another for almost 700 years. The herbs are used to cure humans and the farm’s cattle. Supplements use The Inhabitant doesn’t only apply the herbs for medicine for humans and animals, but they also use it for supplements uses. This tradition of using the herbs in cooking is still carried out till now by the majority of the inhabitants of the valley. Mostly the house wifes grow in there garden a selection of herbs which the use them for supplemental purposes. Having a diet which includes herbs; have positive health impacts. Essential Oil Some of the herbs that grow in the Valley can be used to extract essential oils. These oils have varieties of uses as for skin, medicinal and production of soap. The extraction of the essential oil requires a steam distillery. The size of the distillery unit varies accordingly to the required output. Producing of the essential oil is not that common in the valley and the Walser tradition, yet it is very relevant to their botanical culture.
-Fig 24 “Herbs map” By the author.
Herbalism
2 Km 2 Km
2 Km 2 Km
Fig 24
Map Key Red Clover
Wild Marjoram
Wild Strawberry
Cranesbill
White Deadnettle
Forest
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Fig 25 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
05
Fig. 25
45 I Project Background
Project background 5.1 Studio Focus In Winter Semester 2017/18 Studio of Professor Anne Brandl in the University of Liechtenstein was focusing on creating urban/rural Visions for the deep valleys in the alps in which they were able to preserve their cultural landscape from the growing suburban carpet stretching over in the region of Vorarlberg. Grosses Walsertal was a case study for these kinds of a Cultural landscape in threat of being wipe-out to become part of this suburban carpet. The topic is contemporary because, in the current city-centered discourse, often dismissed are the rural places as stagnating. One-third of the world population is living in rural areas. “I Think the term Vision is exactly what we need. We as planners need to envisage scenarios that are long-term and strive for high goals. That’s why we think that participative models can only be one out of series of strategies. With participative processes, It is often difficult to create images beyond the commonly comprehensible, the mediocre. People don’t generally have “visions” they only relate their future to what they already know or are used to. In any case, this vision needs to go beyond exactly what you have been stating above. Rural areas can be more than pure providers of the resources you mentioned before. They can be sustainable and attractive living and working environments, as much as cities are.” (Lüth, interviewed by Carlow, V.M, 2016, p.225).
Project Background
5.2 Research Gap In the last century, the urban regions have witnessed a drastic expansion due to industrialization, while on the other hand, rural areas have undergone a mass out-Migration of people. That is one of the reasons there is lack of discussion on the future of villages and small towns. In a more local sense, the inhabitants of the valleys in the alpine region have unique cultural landscape; these areas are under a threat of losing these cultural values. There is a lack of future visions and urban planning scenarios for these valleys.
One of the problems common to the local region of Alps is the future of the abandoned farmhouses, pastures and meadow. What is the future of long inherited cultivated landscape and buildings? In Grosses Walsertal the transhumance has been in practice nearly from the 13th century. Recently due to economic reasons, the inhabitants stopped using the middle part of agriculture the “Maisäss.” With no plan or vision for these Maisäss regions, the buildings are left out to fall into disrepair, while the pasture and meadows are being reclaimed back by nature; Losing years of inherited cultural tradition. The topic of the abandoned Maisäss region is contemporary and being discussed in the last years but an observational matter without any proposal or vision for it.
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47 I Project Background
5.3 Aim & Research Question In an attempt to harness the Maisäss regions; this research aims to explore the possibilities and potentials that the area has. Taking the step as an architect and urban planner by intervening with ideas, thought, visions and designs that can become an attempt to preserve and revitalize this part of the cultural tradition of Grosses Walsertal, Which is being lost in just a couple of decades. The aim is not to discuss the importance of Maisäss or stating the fact that it is being lost because that has already been established, yet the objective is to be active, not passive by offer steps and ideas for the preservation and revitalization of the Maisäss region. So the project is to explore the implementation of botanical-production and recreational usages in the Maisäss region in Grosses Walsertal as an attempted to preserve the Meadows, pasture, and the buildings. This production and recreational usages can help to maintain and diversify the uses of the existing building. The following research question aims to define the essence of my design approach Research question: How could the Sensitive Implementation of botanical-production and recreational usages In the Maisäss region help to preserve and revitalize it?
Project Background
5.4 Methodology The Study of Grosses Walsertal and designing a vision was divided into four-part which was the frame of the design studio worked with. The Four-part are: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Part 1Reading! To make the qualities and advantages of the Grosses Walsertal visible, we will collect, analyze and map facts and figures, processes and dynamics of the valley. Part 2 (Design Seminar) Experiencing! For a week we will receive input from regional and local actors in the Grosses Walsertal valley. We will use the time to experience the valley with all our senses. Part 3 Conceptualizing! We will start our interventions on a large scale. We will think creatively about possible spatial scenarios and urban qualities for the valley. What can be the image, the urban or rural character of the valley in 2030? Part 4 Zoom in! Based on the urban visions and spatial scenarios we will design in this unit small-scale interventions. We will take into account topics like mobility, energy, public space, the transition between landscape and settlementâ&#x20AC;? (Brandl, 2017, p.2).
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Fig 26 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
06
Fig. 26
51 I Project
Project 6.1 Project storyboard After analysis and studies of the valley and after the finding which was presented in this book earlier; The project combines two culture qualities that exist in the valley which are the action of transhumance and the botanical-knowledge. In which the idea is to utilize the herbs knowledge that was developed by the inhabitant of the valley throw centuries and implement these uses in the abandoned Maisäss stables. This implementation is a possibility of revitalizing the Maisäss region yet also the preservation of cultural values. The new usages will attract slow tourism which will help create jobs in the Grosses Walsertal; this will reduce the number of people commuting outside the valley. The Importance of these steps is that currently Grosses Walsertal as other valleys which are still able to maintain their cultural values are threatened by the surrounding regions. Presently the valley population is in decline because several reasons, such as the surrounding big cities like Bregenz, Dornbirn or even countries like Liechtenstein and Switzerland which offer jobs and better qualities than the valley offer; so 70 % of the inhabitant of the valley work outside. That’s why any interventions which will take place in the valley should put into consideration the importance of strengthening the valley’s identity and improve the qualities of it. The project interventions will try to be as sensitive, pragmatic and punctual as possible so any addition shouldn’t be overdone or change the identity and the rural qualities that the valley.
-Fig 27 “Story board of the project” By the author.
Project I
52
Walser People
Herbs Knowledge The inhabitants of Grosses Walsertal developed the knowledge of herbs usages. These Usages are Medicinal for human and cattle, Supplement uses, extraction of essential oils and soil treatments.
Herbs uses
70% Commute outside Due to lack of Jobs in the valley, the inhabitants start to commute to the surrounding region. This threatens the existence of this unique cultural landscape
Mais채ss Stables Places for Production & recreational
Mais채ss Region Preservation and revitalization
Fig 27
Transhumance In the recent couple of decades, the Walser start to skip the Mais채ss region due to economic reasons leaving behind the Stables and land with unplanned future
Abandoned Mais채ss Stables & Land
53 I Project
6.2 Project Timeline The project aims to preserve and revitalize the Maisäss region in a sensitive manner requires precise steps to be established on a period, so I saw the importance of displaying these actions in a Timeline in which it shows the whole process. This schedule starts from the year 2020 and ends around 2050. In a simple diagrammatic step, the Timeline presents the essential stages of preservation and revitalization of the Maisäss region. The time frame for each step in this project is flexible regarding time, not regarding sequence, In which each stage is depending on the previous one being established so the next can follow. In the Timeline, it shows three main stages which are red font in the opposite page. These steps are Connectivity which is around the year 2020, ADD ON which is around the year 2030 and the last stage is ADD ON PLUS which will be around the year 2050. Each Step of the three will be presented in the following pages. In brief words the three steps are in sequence; 1- concerned with establishing mobility between the eight Maisäss regions, currently each area is isolated and reached in a vertical way “transhumance.” 2- Preservation of the Maisäss stables through adaptation, this step will present possibilities of different design for the stable shown in a catalog. 3- In case of potential growth the importance of identifying the new potential building areas in the Maisäss region sensitively by mapping the qualities that exist in the valley and carefully placing these new building zones.
-Fig 28 “Time-Line of the project” By the author.
Project
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Connectivity
ADD ON
ADD ON +
Start the horizontal mobility
Using the ADD ON catalog; The
This stage identifying the plots,
between the 8 Maissas regions.
stables start to adapt to their
Herbs growing areas and placing
Use the existing roads in the
new functions as being places
the location of the new building
areas and work on the connec-
for botanical-production or rec-
tion between these streets in the
reational, depending on the loca-
different Areas
tion of the stable in the Maissas region and the Valley.
2020
Fig 28
2030
2050
The horizontal mobility is established & E bike
Maisäss region
This step will invite recreational
By this stage, each Maissas
By this stage, this new produc-
and sports activities like hiking
region starts to have its theme
tion and recreational functions
and biking on these new car-free
of botanical-production and
will create job opportunities in
roads, Which can increase sus-
uses. These themes are divided
the Valley; Which will reduce the
tainable tourism in the Maissas
into three categories; Which are
number of people commuting
region.
Region for Medicinal herbs and
outside. Also, it will attract young
region for Supplements uses and
families to live and work in the
region for essential oils.
valley. So facilities and housing
Job opportunityless commuting
needed.
55 I Project
6.3 Connectivity Maisäss regions were always part of action “Transhumance” which was carried out in a vertical sense and still have been accessed vertically. Due to the problem which was presented earlier concerning the inhabitants of the valley started to abandon the Maisäss regions for economic reasons and is very recent; these regions became isolated spots or gaps in the seasonal cycle that the farms take. These eight areas weren’t before seen as one region yet due to the recent problem; the idea was to start to see it as one and work on connecting all of these spots. The first stage in the Timeline is to establish mobility between The eight Maisäss regions. It was demonstrated how transhumance had been carried out in a vertical sense; the movement is as such. The main road in the valley, it is a two-lane road with no pedestrian or bike lane making it uninviting to these activities. This stage will be series of road connections interventions that will connect the 8 Maisäss regions. These new horizontal connections in the Maisäss level a car-free road encouraging sustainable means for transportation. This route will invite recreational & sports activities like hiking and biking which can increase sustainable tourism in the valley.
Fig 29 “Horizontal mobility section” By the author.
Project I
Transportation spots
Transportation quality
E Bike Network
56
57 I Project
These Maisäss regions according to the UNESCO biosphere park is located in the development zone which is meant to be for sustainable development; that why the new horizontal connections will be car-free rood encouraging sustainable mobility between these eight Maisäss spots. There will be an E-bike network which the stations will be located along the roads and next to the main transportation hubs. Regarding sustainability, the new horizontal connection material will be either recycled concrete aggregate or warm mix asphalt because the use of warm mix asphalt technology will reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and the energy consumption also. (Journal of Cleaner Production, n.d.). The new road connections were designed carefully throw the landscape to have the road at a similar altitude as possible and to make use of the existing streets in the eight Maisäss regions.
This stage of the project, the new horizontal connection between the Maisäss regions is as a step towards revitalizing these abandoned areas. It is seen as a starting point to see these eight separated spots as one horizontal Maisäss region. Establishing this connection is vital for the implementation of recreational usages in the Maisäss stables in the future.
-Fig 30 “Map of the new horizontal connection in the Maisäss regions” By the author.
Project
2 Km 2 Km
2 Km 2 Km
Fig 30
Map Key Main Road
Secondary road
New connection
Maisäss region
Settlements
I 58
59 I Project
6.4 ADD-ON Add on is the stage of adaptation & Implementation of botanical-production and recreational usages In the Maisäss abandoned stables. This step which expected to be around the year 2025-2030 after the horizontal mobility is established and the Maisäss region is being revitalized slowly with new sustainable tourism. This phase of the project is about the adaptive reuse of the Maisäss abandoned stables. The adaptation of the stable is a form of preservation of cultural value in Grosses Walsertal. The stables new uses will relate to the three botanical themes in the Maisäss region which was developed from the herbs that grow in the eight areas. The three themes are Supplemental uses, Medicinal uses and essential oil related uses. The idea that these areas became like a consecutive herbs related zones which become an attraction for slow tourism which doesn’t break the balance of the relationship between man and nature. Inside each theme, the stables new uses will relate to it. As an example of one of those three areas, in the project, zoom in is done on one of the Maisäss spots in the village of Sankt Gerold. This Maisäss region is in the theme of essential oil related uses, So the new applications for the stable will relate to that. The recreational usages in Sankt Gerold stables will be Sauna, detox bath and foot bath. The production places will be distilleries for oil extraction, and soap production which uses essential oil in there manufacture
-Fig 31 “Map of the three herbs regions” By the author.
Project I
1 Km
Valentschina
Sankt Gerold
Blons
ThĂźringerberg
Fig 31
Map Key Supplemental use Essential oil
Medicinal use
1 Km
Sonntag
60
61 I Project
The abandoned Stables vary in size, shape, and relation to settlements (which have been presented in the chapter of Maisäss) so there was a need for a guideline for the possibilities of addition & adaption to its new function either it is recreational use or productive one. So this phase of the project outcome was “ADD ON Catalogue,” this catalog Contain different possible of adaptations and schematic design for various functions. The catalog Add-On content is inspired and based on the same architectural and urban language that exists in the valley. The Catalogue is a guideline for possibilities for the Maisäss stables. These designs are for buildings that go with the same theme of the project. So the plans vary from botanical-production uses such as oil distillery & Soap production. To recreational such as sauna, restaurant, and bath. Also, a residential as expected a potential population growth around the year 2050 according to the Project Timeline. The following pages have an example of these stables from the ADD ON catalog, in each spread, there are two examples from the catalog. On the left page it shows in a simple schematic diagram the possibility of the additions, and on the right page, it has an example of this option. The design has either botanical-production related use or botanical-recreational use.
-Fig 32 “ADD ON catalogue cover page” By the author.
Project I
ADD
ON
Fig 32
Catalogue of possible adaptations and addition to the existing stables in Grosses Walsertal
62
63 I Project
Adjusting to the existing
Linear addition to existing
This typology Is mainly adjusting the existing
The Linear addition is an existing method
stable without any extensions or additions.
or language that is in Grosses Walsertal. It
By merely making internal adjustments in
inspires this typology of stable adaptation
the stable to fit its new function. On the
and addition. This technique of adjustment
right page is a schematic design of a Sauna
can be light structure addition, or it can be a
which is botanical-recreational use related to
heavy one. On the right page is a schematic
the three botanical themes established in the
design of a restaurant which is recreational
project.
botanical use related to the three botanical-themes established in the project.
-Fig 33 “Facade, plan and section of sauna scale 1/200” By the author. -Fig 34 “Facade, plan and section of restaurant scale 1/200” By the author.
Project I
64
Plan - Scale 1:50
nt nt nt South Facade - Scale 1:100
Section - Scale 1:100
Facade Scale 1/200
Facade Scale 1/200
Sauna
Plan - Scale 1:50
Plan Scale 1/200
South Facade - Scale 1:100
Section - Scale 1:100
Plan Scale 1/200
Section - Scale 1:100 Section Scale 1/200 Fig 33
Section Scale 1/200 Fig 34
65 I Project
Linear addition at the back
Building within a building
Linear addition to the back is a typology
Building within a building can be seen as
which is an existing method of adding a new
a conservative approach. In which seeing
building, and it is most common in the Alpe
the existing stable as a shell and the new
“At the mountaintop region.” It is an eco-
structure is just inserted inside. This method
logical way of construction. Plus the main
will make use of the old stable; So the new
reason for this method is used as a defense
building becomes a double skin, making it
system to avalanches. On the right page is
less exposed to the outside weather condi-
a schematic design of a soap production
tion; so losing energy “heat” slowly. On the
which is botanical-production use related to
right page is a schematic design of a resi-
the three botanical themes established in the
dential unit inside the abandoned stable.
project. -Fig 35 “Facade, plan and section of soap production scale 1/200” By the author. -Fig 36 “Facade, plan and section of residential unit scale 1/200” By the author.
Project I
66
Section - Scale 1:100
Soup Production Section Scale 1/200 Soup Production
North Facade- Scale 1:100
South Facade Scale 1/200
Facade Scale 1/200
Section - Scale 1:100
North Facade- Scale 1:100 Plan Scale 1/200
Plan - Scale 1:100
Section - Scale 1:100
Plan - Scale 1:100
Section - Scale 1:100
Plan Scale 1/200
South West Facade - Scale 1:100
North Facade- Scale 1:100
South west Facade Scale 1/200
South West Facade - Scale 1:100 Fig 35
Section Scale 1/200 Fig 36
North Facade- Scale 1:100
67 I Project
Outside to the existing
Surrounding to the existing
This approach of building away from the ex-
Surrounding the existing stable is a possibil-
isting stable is a conservative approach. In
ity which a lot of stable in the Grosses Wals-
which the stable in Grosses Walsertal can
ertal are part or surrounded by the residential
be seen as an architectural value that does
building. On the right page is a schematic
not need any architecture interventions. This
design of a massage place, it is part of the
way of dealing with the existing stables is
medical herbs theme in which they use es-
more of artistic approach, poetic in some
sential oils which have positive impacts on
sense. The new building addition is inspired
the skin.
by the relation between the stable and milk cellars. The design on the right page is herbs store. -Fig 37 “Facade, plan and section of herbs store scale 1/200” By the author. -Fig 38 “Facade, plan and section of massage place scale 1/200” By the author.
Project I
Facade Scale 1/200
Facade Scale 1/200
Plan Scale 1/200
Plan Scale 1/200
Section Scale 1/200 Fig 37
Section Scale 1/200 Fig 38
68
69 I Project
Fill between the existing
This typology will require two existing two buildings, and an empty void is in between them, Which is present but not that much, due to that the settlement pattern in the Maisäss region is dispersed settlement structure. The outcome of filling the in between is a linear building structure. On the right page is a schematic design of an Oil distillery which is botanical-production use related to the three botanical themes established in the project. -Fig 39 “Facade, plan and section of distillery scale 1/200” By the author.
Project I
Plan - Scale 1:100
Section - Scale 1:100
South Facade - Scale 1:100
Plan - Scale 1:100
Facade Scale 1/200
Plan Scale 1/200
Plan - Scale 1:100
Section - Scale 1:100 Section - Scale 1:100 Fig 39
South Facade - Scale 1:100 South Facade - Scale 1:100
Section Scale 1/200
70
71 I Project
On the opposite page is a zoom in on one of the Maisäss regions, this Maisäss is in the village of Sankt Gerold. In this area, the herbs theme is essential oils. So the stables adaptation will be related to that subject. The essential oils related botanical recreational usages are distilleries for extraction of essential oil, soap production which relies on the essential oils. The related botanical recreational usages are Sauna, foot bath, and detox bath. Also, few stables will adapt to hotels for potential tourists in this Maisäss region, and other will change to housing for potential growth. The map of Sankt Gerold shows the possible stables for adaptation and their possibility of extension according to the ADD-ON Catalogue. Below is the key for the map which shows the schematic drawing from the catalog and the number next to it.
1
3
2
4
6
5
7
Fig 40
-Fig 40 “Diagrams of the ADD ON’s possibilities” By the author. -Fig 41 “Zoom in Plan on the Maisäss region of Sankt Gerold scale 1/6500 ” By the author.
Project I
72
Sankt Gerold
100M 100M
Alpe
4
6
1
5
1
2 6 4 3
5 4
5
Heimgut 100M 100M
Fig 41
Scale 1/6500
73 I Project
Aligning with the UNESCO biosphere park zoning, in which the location of the Maisäss regions are in the development zone which is for sustainable development. This phase of the project the “ADD ON” is the phase of preservation of cultural value by adaptation. Adaptation of these abandoned stable is a sustainable development practice. Instead of building a new building using an abandoned one with few interventions to fit its new function and also preserving a cultural value “The Maisäss stables.”The new recreational uses which will be implemented in the Maisäss stables such as Saunas, detox bath, and foot bath, these kinds of activities will attract slow tourism and will start to revitalize the Maisäss region gradually. The project research question was How could the Sensitive Implementation of botanical-production and recreational usages In the Maisäss region help to preserve and revitalize it? This phase of the project aim was to protect and revitalize the Maisäss region with a minimal, sensitive and pragmatic way; that’s why the intervention is small, and the outcome of this phase of the project is a Catalogue of possibilities of adaptations. Even this catalog is just a guideline for potential adjustments that was inspired by the Valley architectural and urban language. The aim is to have the intervention as unseen, and it should stand out. The design decision which was from the start that the valley should preserve its unique rural cultural qualities without any significant interventions and the interventions should lead to preservation and revitalization of the Maisäss region and that what the ADD ON phase was offering.
-Fig 42 “ Illustration of Sankt Gerold Maisäss ” By the author.
Project I
74
Sankt Gerold
Fig. 42
75 I Project
6.5 ADD ON + According to the Timeline of this project, this phase is called ADD ON + which is expected to be around the year 2050. By this stage, the aim was to specify the Plots and building areas in the Maisäss regions which could be utilized for the inhabitant’s growth. Depending on each part, these plots can be from residential to commercial uses. The aim also at this stage is to reverse the population decline then stabilize it and start growth which is estimated to be around 10-15%. Grosses Walsertal population is shrinking compared to the state of Vorarlberg. The problem that the unique cultural landscape in the valley will gradually vanish and the inhabitant start to move out. 1869=100
Vorarlberg
Grosses Walsertal
Expected
2050
2040
2030
Years 2020
2017
2011
2001
1991
1981
1971
1961
1951
1939
1923
1910
1900
1890
1880
1869
400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0
Aim
Fig 43.This graph compares between the population growth of Vorarlberg and Grosses Walsertal in the last 148 year, Which shows the population starts to grow in Vorarlberg in the mid 40’s of the previous century, while in the valley it was stable. It began to decline in the last couple of decades, leaving the valley with unclear future. Also, the graph shows from 2017 yup to 2050 the aimed growth which is around 10-15%.
-Fig 43 “Population growth” By the author. -Fig 44 “Villages population increases ” By the author.
Project
I 76
ThĂźringerberg
Sankt Gerold
Blons
The population in Thuringerberg is con-
Sankt Gerold Current population is 395
The population in Blons is 340 by the
sidered the biggest in the valley which
by the stage of add-on plus the target
stage of add-on plus the target for
is 709. By the stage of add-on + the in-
for population growth should increase
population growth should increase by
crease of 10% which will be 71 people.
by 10% which is equivalent to 40 peo-
10% which is equivalent to 34 people.
30 New family.
ple. 17 New families.
14 New families.
71 People
40 People
34 People
24 New Houses
13 New Houses
8 New Houses
6 adapted-houses
4 adapted-houses
6 adapted-houses
Valentschina
Sonntag
The population in Valentschina is 454.
Sonntag current population is 702 in-
By the stage of add-on + the increase
habitant, Which have been shrinking in
of 10% which will be 45 people. 20
the last decade. So the aim is to re-
New family.
verse the decline and Stabilize it. The expected increase is 10%
45 People
70 People
15 New Houses
22 New Houses
5 adapted-houses
8 adapted-houses
Fig 44
77 I Project
In this phase which will be around 2050 with expected growth 10%, it is imperative to map out the Places for potential new buildings in an attempt to preserve the Maisäss region rural qualities without becoming exploited. To keep the same design approach to the valley of any future interventions that will take place in the valley should be Sensitive, minimal and punctual interventions. So in the process of identifying the new building areas, I started with mapping the qualities that exist in the region “Sankt Gerold” and begin sensibly placing the potential new buildings accordingly to the conditions that are there. These qualities most of it is natural qualities that will shape the zoning of the Maisäss. On the right page is an example of Sankt Gerold Maisäss layering analysis. This analysis shows the conditions such as The sun intensity which spots have better sun rays than other and the presence of water streams in this region because both the sun presence and water identify the areas which will have to be preserved for herbs fields. Qualities like the altitude or the forest formation which create secluded spots which will be retained for recreational usages without any further developments in an attempt to maintain its secluded rural setting. Mobility was also seen as a quality that had to be in consideration for identifying the areas for potential new buildings. Also placing in account the horizontal movement which has already been established according to the project Timeline around the year 2020.
-Fig 45 “Layering analysis ” By the author.
Project I
78
Layering analysis
Altitude
The Maisäss region altitude is in between 1200m to 1600m above sea level. The elevation offers better air quality from the lower altitudes. Plus it has the quality of the view.
Forest
Due to forest formation, it created isolated and secluded spots which can be dedicated for recreational uses.
Sun quality
The sun quality is essential for identifying the best areas for preserving them for herbs fields
Water
The formation of the Maisäss in the valley usually surrounded from both sides by the water stream. Here is Sankt Gerold there is two water stream also in the middle of it, Which make the soil quality suitable for herbs growing
Herbs
areas. This map was generated from personal observations of herbs that grow in this Maisass region
Connections
To place the New plots for potential new buildings mobility connections should be put into considerations
Fig 45 Layering analysis of the Maisäss of Sankt Gerold, This study of the qualities is essential in reading this region to help in identifying the preservation areas and the possible new building zones.
79 I Project
On the opposite page is the map zoom in on the Maisäss region of Sankt Gerold village. As have been explained earlier this plan was the conclusion of overlaying different qualities that exist in this region. These qualities became the context for placing the new potential building areas. After overlaying the sun and water quality, it was clear the middle part of this Maisäss had the best area for growing the herbs, also after personal tracing of the herbs that already rows there the decision was made to keep this region for herb fields. Even the sun quality helped in identifying the pastures for grazing cattle or hay collection. The zone which is in light blue is the zones keep for recreational usages in which no developments or future building will take place. At the end of all layering of different qualities come the ADD ON + which is the regions for possibilities of new buildings which are in white. ADD-ON + is the last stage of the project. This phase was the stage of identification for preservation. It is critical stage because without having clear zoning for the eight Maisäss regions, in case of potential growth, the new buildings could ruin the rural quality that is present in the valley in general and in the Maisäss region in specific. In this phase of the Timeline, it is essential to have the same approach along the project of being minimal and sensitive in interventions in an attempt for preservation and revitalization for the Maisäss regions. That’s why the new zone for buildings have been carefully chosen, and the decision to make the new settlements looks homogeneous with the already existing building structures. It was a conscious decision throughout the project to let the architect/urban planner interventions not dominant and transparent as possible.
-Fig 46 “Zoom in Plan on the Maisäss region of Sankt Gerold scale 1/6500 ” By the author.
Project I
80
Sankt Gerold
100M 100M
Alpe
white deadnettle
Recreational Zone
ground ivy
ADD ON + Meadowsweet
Wild marjoram Pastures
ground ivy Pastures Wild marjoram
ground ivy
ADD ON +
Heimgut 100M 100M
Fig 46
Scale 1/6500
Fig 47 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
07
Fig. 47
83 I Epilogue
Epilogue 7.1 Conclusion In this epilogue, it will contain the personal experience of developing a vision for Grosses Walsertal. It will also include the significant design decisions of the project with explaining the research question if it was answered or not and if further investigations should take place concerning the topic. Being from a completely different environment and culture background; at the beginning of the design studio dealing with developing an urban/rural vision for Grosses Walsertal valley and coping with such unique cultural landscapes personally, I had a dilemma. This dilemma was either introducing strong and experimental ideas that stand out in this delicate landscape or try to be more specific in interventions and minimal in which the design project becomes very transparent in the valley where it is right there yet you can see throw it. After the time I spent in the valley, and after analysis of it, I concluded that any future interventions aim should be in an attempt to preserve, maintain and strength the cultural values and qualities that exist in this place. The design project has to be as delicate as it can be matching the valley characteristics. I have seen that the best approach to develop the project is to focus on a specific topic or problem that can help in achieving the aim. By analyzing the valley; I decided to focus on the Maisäss region in an attempt to preserve and revitalize this area, as it has been explained earlier in this book. The research question: How could the Sensitive Implementation of botanical-production and recreational usages In the Maisäss region help to preserve and revitalize it?
Epilogue
The design project offers an attempt at a timeline period for the process of preservation and revitalization of the Maisäss region in a sensitive matter. The project provided it in the three steps which are delicate sequential steps that can start to introduce a new perspective for the Maisäss regions which will lead to preservation and revitalization. The first step which was the horizontal connectivity, it is a step for revitalizing the eight Maisäss spots with new mobility. The second the ADD ON which was the attempt for preservation by adaptation of unique cultural value. The last step the ADD ON + which was the critical step of identification of the new possibilities of building areas for preservations purposes. These actions were meant to become as sensitive as possible as it was the aim since the beginning of the thinking process. The project with the steps which was explained up briefly has introduced an attempt for the preservation and revitalization process. The aim could have been approached in different or bolder ways, yet the objective is to achieve the goal of preservation and revitalization as sensitive as possible. Further research and projects should be conducted on the Maisäss which can help in solving the problem of abandoned rich cultural regions with unplanned future. These research and project can offer different approach towards the Maisäss with the same aim or different one. The point is to start the debate on topics and problems in a rural landscape which have been almost forgotten in favor of the urban place yet nearly onethird of the world population lives in rural places.
I 84
Fig 48 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
08
Fig. 48
87 I Virtual Reality
Virtual reality model 8.1 VR Task In the same semester besides my thesis, in studio Brandl winter semester 2017-18 students participant in the studio had to work in four different groups in an aim to communicate the student project with various forms. These forums were an analog and a virtual reality model, booklet, and exhibition. (Brandl,2017,p.2.). I worked in the Virtual reality group. The group was consistent from 5 students. The Virtual reality was collaboration work between the architectural and information technology departments at the University of Liechtenstein. This collaboration was beneficial for figuring out several technical issues and for providing the virtual reality equipment. It was the first to use time Virtual reality in the architectural department at the University of Liechtenstein, so it was experimental from the professor and the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side. The task for the virtual reality group was to test it as a tool in the urban design and to assess it throughout the semester. Also to try to communicate the student projects in the Virtual reality if possible and to create extreme scenarios of Grosses Walsertal these situations that can never be realized in the real world and can only be done in the virtual world. Scenes like how the grosses Walsertal will look like if a mass concentration of settlements took place in it or the possibilities flooding the whole full if a dam was built at its beginning. We were asked to write down in a diary our experience working with the Virtual reality. So I share brief from the dairy which five students wrote part of it concerning there problems, opinions or surprises. This next section which I share is selected portions of my diary working with the Virtual reality model throughout the winter semester 2017-18.
Virtual Reality
8.2 VR Dairy
â&#x20AC;&#x153;-Working with the virtual reality can be quite challenging at the beginning because it requires skills in computer programs which may not be acquired by many. The phase we had at the beginning the discussion on how we can use Virtual reality as a tool in the urban design and how can we optimize the use of this tool. Virtual reality offers a glimpse of how the projects will look like in reality it pushes on step closer to reality than 2D drawings and 3D models. We started our discussion on how we will present the urban project in the Virtual reality. At this stage, we have already been in contact with the Information technology institute. They have informed us that they use Unity as the software for the virtual reality which none of us knew how to use this software. We were working in groups in which two people started working with unity; one group began working with rhino and two groups with 360 videos. This group division was interdependent work. In which we depended on each other to get the final result. 360: Personally I worked on 360 renders. 360 render is like the standard render, but in this one, you can look around using the VR headset. Working with 360 renders required the knowledge of any 3D program to construct the building in it and assign materials to it. After that, a rendering program like VRay can have a spherical 360 render. I did a PDF explaining how to do this step by step so it can be a guideline for fellow students. Negative of 360 renders: The drawback in utilizing the VR is that it is a still image in which the user of the headset is limited in interacting with the 3D model yet he/she can look freely around investigate the surrounding with complete freedom on where to look. Positives of 360 render: this method of using the virtual reality makes it easy because
I 88
89 I Virtual Reality
to produce this 360 renders; the programs need most of architects and architecture student know the programs in which it is possible to use such tool “VR” without learning a new program. Positives of 360 render: this method of using the virtual reality makes it easy because to produce this 360 renders; the programs need most of architects and architecture student know the programs in which it is possible to use such tool “VR” without learning a new program. 360 video edit: We had the idea to have a 360 videos with Samsung camera “costs around 80 Euro” we spent a day taking videos all around the valley “In which our studio project was”these spots were picked according to students suggestion. We had around 20 videos more or less. With this 360 videos, we started using After effects in editing this videos. We didn’t know after effect that much yet we saw a lot of tutorials on how to modify this video and implementing them in unity so we can see them in the Virtual reality headset. I started editing some of the footage and experimenting with what is the easiest way to add/remove/mark/highlight something in the video, which relates to the students project. The outcome I did a tutorial PDF on how to edit these videos in after effects and shared with my studio mates so each student can start to implement part of his project on the 360 videos. Positives: The videos can edit an existing situation and show the comparison. Negatives: It requires the knowledge of after effects which not many can use yet, it is similar to Photoshop, yet we watched tutorials on the Internet to help us in editing the videos. Unity: I worked with Unity it is indeed a quite strong tool. It is a gaming engine in which it has a lot of potentials to do. We had constructed the valley 3d model in Rhino and exported it to rhino. Unity is very compatible with
Virtual Reality
rhino also other 3d software too. Unity gives the possibility to move/fly in the valley in a very each manner. We had to think in the user experience on how they will handle motion sickness or high anxiety or related such problems. Also, we put in consideration on how to make it easy to move around in the valley. Positives of Unity: Because it is a gaming engine it has almost no limits in achieving what is required in Virtual reality. It easily compatibility with 3d modeling programs. Negatives: It isn’t an easy tool to use it require a lot of knowledge to be able to use it. Its interface needs an introduction on how to navigate through files and how to correctly import data to face no problems in unity. “ (Hamdy, E., 2018, p.10-12).
8.3 Conclusion As architects, the virtual reality brings other dimensions for experiencing the design or any interventions done. It requires extra program skills which are not that difficult to learn yet need time to get into these type of programs such as Unity or Unreal engine. My personal experience with the virtual reality model this semester and even before, I think it is the extra mile of involving the recipient or the audience in a spatial quality which a 2D drawing or even 3D model will never mimic. Looking throw the headsets, it engages the one wearing it into a virtual world of the architect’s simple creation. The Virtual reality is an excellent tool to use in an urban design but to be more specific to my thesis semester project in Grosses Walsertal. The Valley is, and my thesis work which was very minimal in interventions and additions; so it wouldn’t be useful to see the project standing in the valley never noticing where are the design. So I used it indoor, inside couple of the buildings from the stage of the project “ADD ON.”
I 90
Fig 49 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
09
Fig. 49
93 I Sources
Sources 9.1 List of references -Brandl, Anne.(2017). From mountain top to parking lot. (Studio Brief). Retrieved from https:// www.uni.li/en/media/ma-ws17-18-studio-brandl.pdf -Carlow,V.M.(Ed.).(2016). Ruralism: The Future of Villages and small Towns in an urbanizing world. Berlin:Jovis. -ETH Studio Basel (Ed.). (2006). Switzerland- an urban porträit Die Schweiz- ein städtebauliches portat. Basel Boston Berlin: Birkhäuser. -ETH Studio Basel (Ed.). (2016). Achtung: die Landscjaft: Can you Think of the city in Different Terms? A First Attempt Lässt sich die stadt anders denken? Ein erster Versuch. Zürich: Lars Müller. -Giovanoli, D., & Mathieu, J. (2004). Alpschermen und Maiensässe in Graubünden: bäuerliche Bauten, Betriebsstufen und Siedlungsstrukturen ausserhalb der Dörfer Graubündens von der frühen Neuzeit bis 1960. Bern: Haupt. -ARCH+Verlag (Ed.).(2017). stadtland. Der neue Rurbanismus [special issue].archplus, 50(228). -Czechowkski, D.(2014). A Map is worth a Thousand Words. Topos. (89), 26-31. -Sieverts, T.(2003). Cities without cities: an interpretation of the Zwischenstadt. London: Spon. -Topos (Ed.). (2017). Periphery [special issue]. Topos. (98).
Sources
-Waldheim, C. (Ed.). (2006). The landscape urbanism Reader. New York: Princeton Architectural Press. -Rega, C. (Ed.). (2014). Landscape Planning and Rural Development: KeyIssues and options Towardds Integration. New York: Springer. -Seggern, H. Von, Werner, J., & Grosse-Bächle, L. (Eds.). (2008). Creating Knowledge: Innovationsstrategien im Entwerfen urbaner Landschaften innovation strategies for Designing Urban Landscapes. Berlin: Jovis. -Palmboom, F., Thomaes, S., Stoeckart, J., Kieboom, C., & Van Puffelen, J. (Eds.). (2010). Drawing the ground- Landscape Urbanism Today. Basel: Birkhäuser. -Hochparterre AG (Ed.). (2016). Das Dorf, das Grün, die Planung [special issue]. Hochparterre. (August). -Dohle, I., Hamdy, E., Krasniqi, k., Probst, T., & Rederer, J. (2018). VR Work Diary :We are VR. -Facts and Figures. (n.d). Retrieved September 28, 2017, from http://www.grosseswalsertal.at/ Facts_and_Figures -Alpen im Tal. (n.d). Retrieved September 29, 2017, from http://www.grosseswalsertal.at/Alpen_im_Tal
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-700 Jahre Walser in Vorarlberg. (n.d). Retrieved September 30, 2017,http://www.grosseswalsertal.at/700_Jahre_Walser_in_Vorarlberg -UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Program: What are biosphere reserves all about? (n.d.). Retrieved October 5, 2017, from http://www.georgewright.org/mab -O’Dea, C. (2012, December 18). Rogue native species ruins Alpine slopes. Retrieved November 1, 2017, from https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/green-takeover_rogue-native-species-ruins-alpineslopes/34518876 -Alchemilla Kräuterfrauen. (n.d.). Alchemilla Kräuterfrauen. Retrieved January 29, 2018, from http://www.grosseswalsertal.at/Biosphaerenpark/Nachhaltige_Wirtschaft/Alchemilla -Journal of Cleaner Production. (n.d.). Retrieved December 10, 2017, from https://www. sciencedirect.com/science/journal/09596526/vsi/10Q9D5Q33JP -Austria, S. (n.d.). Retrieved December 4, 2017, from http://www.statistik.at/blickgem/gemList. do?bdl=8%2Fjournal%2F09596526%2Fvsi%2F10Q9D5Q33JP -Statistik Austria, Ein Blick auf die Gemeinde. (n.d). Retrived 2017, 2 October from http:// www.statistik.at/blickgem/gemDetail.do?gemnr=80127
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9.2 List of Figures -Fig 01 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author................................................................................6 -Fig 02 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author..............................................................................10 -Fig 03 “Satellite image of Vorarlberg” Google earth.............................................................12 -Fig 04 “Vorarlberg Location in Austria” By the author..........................................................14 -Fig 05 “Vorarlberg Analysis” By the author...........................................................................14 -Fig 06 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author..............................................................................16 -Fig 07 “Population map of Grosses Walsertal” By the author...............................................18 -Fig 08 “3D model of Grosses Walsertal” By the author.........................................................18 -Fig 09 “UNESCO Biosphere park zoning” Adapted from (Schaaf, Thomas, n.d) Retrieved from: http://www.fao.org/docrep/x0963e/x0963e08.htm.............................................................................19
-Fig 10 “UNESCO Biosphere park zoning in Grosses Walsertal” By the author.....................20 -Fig 11 “Walser Imagration map” By the author.....................................................................22
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-Fig 12 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.............................................................................24 -Fig 13 “Transhumance Section” By the author......................................................................26 -Fig 14 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author..............................................................................28 -Fig 15 “Location of Maisäss in the Grosses Walsertal” By the author.................................30 -Fig 16 “Location of the stables of Maisäss in the Grosses Walsertal” By the author..........30 -Fig 17 “Collection of picture for stables in the Maisäss regions” By the author.................32 -Fig 18 “Stables Typologies in Grosses Walsertal” By the author..........................................33 -Fig 19 “Section, Facade and plan of a stable” By the author................................................34 -Fig 20“Facade and plan of a Milk storage” By the author.....................................................34 -Fig 21“Facade and plan of a Milk storage” By the author.....................................................34 -Fig 22“Grosses Walsertal” By the author...............................................................................36 -Fig 23“Diagram of herbs uses”Adapted from Grasser,S., Schunko,C., Vogl,C., (2012). Retrieved from: https://ethnobiomed.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1746-4269-8-31...........................................40
Sources
-Fig 24“Herbs map” By the author..........................................................................................42 -Fig 25 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author..............................................................................44 -Fig 26 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author..............................................................................50 -Fig 27 “Story board of the project” By the author.................................................................52 -Fig 28 “Time-Line of the project” By the author....................................................................54 -Fig 29 “Horizontal mobility section” By the author..........................................................55-56 -Fig 30 “Map of the new horizontal connection in the Maisäss regions” By the author......58 -Fig 31 “Map of the three herbs regions” By the author.........................................................60 -Fig 32 “ADD ON catalogue cover page” By the author..........................................................62 -Fig 33 “Facade, plan and section of sauna scale 1/200” By the author...............................64 -Fig 34 “Facade, plan and section of restaurant scale 1/200” By the author........................64 -Fig 35 “Facade, plan and section of soap production scale 1/200” By the author..............66
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-Fig 36 “Facade, plan and section of residential unit scale 1/200” By the author...............66 -Fig 37 “Facade, plan and section of Herbs store scale 1/200” By the author.....................68 -Fig 38 “Facade, plan and section of massage place scale 1/200” By the author...............68 -Fig 39 “Facade, plan and section of distillery scale 1/200” By the author..........................70 -Fig 40 “Diagrams of the ADD ON’s possibilities” By the author............................................71 -Fig 41“Zoom in Plan on the Maisäss region of Sankt Gerold scale 1/6500” By the author.72 -Fig 42 “Illustration of Sankt Gerold Maisäss” By the author................................................74 -Fig 43 “Population growth” By the author..............................................................................75 -Fig 44 “Villages population increases” By the author...........................................................76 -Fig 45 “Layering analysis” By the author..............................................................................78 -Fig 46“Zoom in Plan on the Maisäss region of Sankt Gerold scale 1/6500” By the author.80 -Fig 47 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author..............................................................................82
Sources
-Fig 48 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author..............................................................................86 -Fig 49 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author..............................................................................92 -Fig 50 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author............................................................................102 -Fig 51 “Meeting with farmer at Grosses Walsertal” by Frommelt, Constantin, 2017...............103 -Fig 52 “Final master thesis defence presentation” by mackowitz, Martin, January 19, 2018...103 -Fig 53 “Final presentation setup” By the author.................................................................104 -Fig 54 “Model for Grosses Walsertal” By the author...........................................................104 -Fig 55 “360 render Inside a stable converted to restaurant” By the author......................106 -Fig 56 “360 render Inside a stable converted to sauna” By the author..............................106 -Fig 57 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author............................................................................108
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Fig 50 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
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Fig. 50
103 I Appendix
Appendix
Fig 51 ”Meeting with farmer at Grosses Walsertal” (Frommelt,2017)
Fig 52 ”Final master thesis defence presentation” (mackowitz,2017)
Appendix
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Fig 53 ”Final Presentation setup” By author
Fig 54 ”Model of Grosses Walsertal” By author
105 I Appendix
Fig 55 ”360 render Inside a stable converted to restaurant” By author
Fig 56 ”360 render Inside a stable converted to sauna” By author
Appendix
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Fig 57 “Grosses Walsertal” By the author.
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Fig. 57
109 I Affidavit
Affidavit
Affidavit
I hereby declare under penalty of perjury that the present paper has been prepared independently by myself and without unpermitted aid. Anything that has been taken verbatim or paraphrased from other writings has been identified as such. This paper has hitherto been neither submitted to an examining body in the same or similar form nor published. Vaduz, 31.01.2018 Signature:
Ehab Hamdy
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