Act Four - Setting the Scene IV.VI The [Re-imagined] Foyer

Fishergate typical of an urban high-street is lined by a dense linear block on both north and south axis. The foyer breaks up this linear density and is glimpsed by the pouring of light and shadow out from the openings. Stepping into the foyer reveals a hidden void in the high-street which spills out from the streets edge, drawing in passers-by. The three original entrances are carved out to remain as open apertures framing views in and out of the courtyard. Visitors are drawn in by a centrifugal force led by the visual promise of a centre, and the enveloping nature of the courtyard around the central tree. The foyer recreates the symmetrical and enveloping feel of the lobby space in The Grand Budapest Hotel The visual focus is drawn upwards toward the circular aperture which allows a glimpse at the terrace and houses above and envelopes the tree which marks the centre of the foyer. The space is left uncluttered with a singular bench along the eastern wall which allows visitors and residents a space to stop and rest or reflect. Light breaks through tree canopy, giving the interior space a dappled and changing quality.

The Social Home ‘Very Social Housing’ Leth & Gori, Copenhagen 2013

The mews are an active street-scape where neighbours of decades or days can meet, gossip and spend time together. The apertures of the home allow for interactions to occur above ground level within the social space of the mews. Inspired by ‘Very Social Housing’ scheme by Leth & Gori, the facade grid is designed to allow residents to invite social interaction, or create privacy within the home. The aperture is large in size, with several shades and screens which can be opened and closed to increase or decrease privacy. The two-century home is intended to be lived in by one family unit for centuries and so over time neighbours will become close and the residents can bridge interactions between the their homes. The scenarios highlight the adaptability of the screens and aperture and how they may be used as intended or perhaps re-imagined for another purpose. Screens also provide operable solar shading creating interesting shadows and shapes over the course of the day and year. The gossip bench is built in the doorway as a space to take off muddy shoes, or to sit and chat with neighbours and friends.