BELLA MEARNS
BA3 CPU Studio Manchester School of Architecture
Looking back to 3.1, we were tasked with creating a builing that connects All Saints Campus, and Birley Campus, while extending on the Brookes building, which houses the Health and Education Department at MMU.
Looking at bringing both health and education into one, the main focus of the spaces looked towards mental health and wellbeing, which required a curved design and high ceilings.
Landscaping arrangementBiophyllic Design
Exploded axo showing structure and interior spaces
Looking back to designing for mental health and wellbeing, I made sure to consider 3 core (right) strategies, which will continue on into 3.2.
THE SENSES
THERMAL ACOUSTICS DECOR LIGHTING ODOUR CALMING
NAVIGATION
LAYOUT SAFETY WAYFINDING FAMILIARITY CLARITY NATURE
ASPECTSS
When considering mentalhealth, it was essential to look at features of sensory design and neurodivergency in design process. Using references from ASPECTSSguidelines and other references, I created a scheme.
MIND BODY EDUCATION
After looking heavily at spacial arrangement, programme and organisation in reference to navigation and ASPECTSS in 3.1, I will need to look further into reducing sensory input in reference to the senses. which I can achieve through the structure, materiality, landscape, and services within my building.
In response to the position of my atelier, I am firmly positioned to embrace the challenges and responsibilities of architectural design in relation to the site, the climate emergency, and inclusivity. Through my engagement in 3.1 I have developed a deep understanding of the importance of detailing, strategic planning, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Throughout 3.1, I reflected on the atelier agenda and my personal position, recognizing the significance of my site and its context. This reflection has served as a foundation for my design trajectory, allowing me to explore and refine my architectural concepts in 3.2. I am committed to translating these concepts into tangible architectural solutions that align with the specified construction sequence, structural and environmental strategies, and regulatory requirements.
The principles of sustainability and the climate emergency remain at the forefront of my design approach. In accordance with the themes of “Zero Carbon Futures” and “Emergent Biophilic Design,” I am dedicated to creating a building that responds actively and passively to its environment. Through careful consideration of environmental performance, material specification, and construction strategies, I aim to ensure that my design minimizes its ecological impact and contributes positively to the urban ecosystem.
Inclusivity is another crucial aspect of my design philosophy. By employing inclusive methodologies and considering diverse user groups, I am determined to create a space that fosters shared and inclusive spatial experiences. I have conducted thorough research, utilizing preexisting data sets and ethnographic investigations, to inform my design trajectory and prioritize the needs of existing and future populations on the university campus.
My methodology emphasizes the importance of complexity, systems thinking, and potential reuse. I am committed to addressing the complexities of the project by considering both the seen and the unseen aspects, ensuring that my design can adapt and evolve over time. Through the utilization of various media, from environmental and data analysis to physical and digital models, I aim to communicate the effectiveness of my design and curate a compelling narrative for its exhibition.
In conclusion, my position is rooted in a deep understanding of the atelier’s aims, the urgency of the climate emergency, and the imperative of inclusivity. I am committed to applying my knowledge, skills, and creativity to design a building that not only meets the needs of the client and users but also contributes positively to the environment and the community. I am excited about the opportunity to showcase my design journey and its culmination through a comprehensive and compelling portfolio and exhibition.
- little vegetation to transpire water, less evaporation
- sloping surface, potential water run off into road
- no infiltration into ground, no water recharge
- ground water recharge
- overhanging sloped roof and rain chain enables collection of water in stream
- permeable pavement allows collection of water in ground and fountain
Manchester deals with a lot of rain throughout the year so I have considered this in my landscape design. I have done this by using rain chains, permeable pavements and water reuse methods such as lots of planting, a central fountain which also creates air flow through the building, and the stream around the courtyard transpiration water run off plant uptake pricipitation
water collected in stream watering system and stream
In the landscape strategy, I have dealt with three main aspects;
to create a sustainable urban drainage watersystem water will need to run off of the sloped roof. This water will be retained using the permeable paving stones and a drainage system which will link to sprinklers and the fountain in the centre of the courtyard so water is recylced.
When thinking of planting, I have used different trees, which can be seen below grown loacally in manchester to reduce the cost of emissions when travelling, and I have also used a wide variety of trees to increase biodiversity and to create an interesting landscape. The trees will also act as an coustic barreier to the busy princess road.
When thinking of the materiality of my buidling for mental health and neurodivergence, we can look at the PAS6463 - Design For the mind, which provides guidance on elements in the built environmentthat which contribute to sensory overload and exhuastion, including materials and colouring. Some of the main points it mentioned on materials were;
1. reflective/glare materials should be avoided
2. materials should provide a high level of sound absorption
3. materials should have low visual noise and a muted colour scheme
4, materials should not have odours or toxins/emit VOCs and SVOCs
5. the Biophillic deisgn should include natural finishes, materials and patterns
extending further on my 3.1 materials research, I have looked at materials that suitably fulfil all these reccomendations.
Along with the PAS6463, I have looked at the Yarram Integrated Healthcare Centre. The centre not only connects mental health, counselling and well-being services but also introduces an open and welcoming environment, with natural materials and an undulating facade, guiding users to entrances.
I am very much inspired by its material use and facade structure, which I will take forward when considering materials and my facade in detail.
To light up the key spaces, and guide people towards entrance points, I have created a curved lamella facade. This will also serve the building in terms of acoustics and shading on a site with lots of sunlight and a high level of noise from the motorway. Key entrance and public spaces will have less lamella for views and lighting purposes.
I have used timber as it is a sustainable material and has benefits in architecture for improving peoples mental health.
N
S
when looking at the structure of my building, I have looked at each layer of the building in terms of a grid structure, as well as the bracing for the windows.
For the roof structure, I have taken a slightly different approach than a typical grid structure, using the peaks and valleys of the undulation and the outline of the roof offsetted for the grid.
for the windows, I have used a 2.5 span for the bracing stucture around the perimeter of the building in a triple glazed structure.
Here, I have exploded the overall structure of the building to show all the components. As shown on the left, I have used a 8x8m grid structure for all the floors. I need to look at how this connects with the roof structure.
- Perimeter Gutter
- BMI White Icopal Bitument waterproofing panels 2mm
- Fleece Seperation layer 3mm
- phenolithic insulation board celotex 100mm
- Visqueen vapour barrier
- Steel Deck 80mm
- Steel fin cantileavered from Internal beam
- Insulation and Stud Frame
Pressed aluminium sofit panel
- Prerimeter end beam
- Gyprock MF Suspended Ceiling System
- Mono rockfon acoustic ceiling 30mm
- cork flooring 3 mm
- water vapour barrier
- air gap
- steel strusses 100mm
- underground heating pipework
- mineral wool insulation 80mm
- water vapour barrier
- Gyprock MF Suspended Ceiling System
- Plasterboard
C U R T A
- triple glazed diffusion glass
- air gaps
- steel bracing system
- timber lamella 150mm
G
- cork flooring 3 mm
- resilient fleece layer
- ACO Bricsklot drain
- 75mm power float finished conrete floor screed
- underground heating pipework
- 100 gauge visqueen vapour barrier
- 150mm polutherane closed cellinsluation board
- 100 gauge visqueen vapour barrier
- concrete slab 200mm
-1200 gauge visqueen
-50mm coarse sand
-150mm well conssolidated harcore
This maquette, built at a 1:5 scale, helps us understand the materials used for the facade and floor. It focuses on three main components: the wooden strips, the glass wall, and the floor build up. The wooden strips are connected to the glass wall using metal fixtures that hold them in place. These fixtures are attached to the upper floor, providing support from above. The glass supports, located on the upper floor, add extra strength to the structure. By studying this model, we can see how the wood, glass, and metal work together to create a strong and attractive facade for the building.
1. S I T E P R E P / D E -
M O L I S H M E N T
Firstly, the existing site will be demolished and prepared for building.
3. S T R U C T U R E
Thirdly, the primary steel structure will be prefabricated and delivered to site where it will be put in place using cranes.
5. R O O F A N D R O
O F S T R U C T U R E
2. F O U N D A T I O N
W O R K
Secondly, the ground will be dug out for the lower level of the ground floor, and an in situ concrete floor plate will be layed out.
4. S T A I R / L I F T S H A F -
T S A N D F L O O R S
After this, stair wells, lift shafts and floor plates will be casted on site.
6. F A C A D E
After this, the timber lamella facade, glazing and bracing will be put in place. Then, the roof and roof structure will be put in place, with panels prefabricated and then transported to the site.
7. L A N D S C A P I N G A N D S E R V I C E S
Lastly, services, landscaping and lighting as well as other ornamentations will be put in place. Trees will be imported from local tree farms to minimise carbon emissions.
- the front area and back area has a width of 5m to accomodate fire vehicles carrying a large tonnage
Fire, Approved Doc B Stairs Lifts Toilets Ramps
- Revolving doors do not act as fire escapes so a further fire escape is placed near the entrances
- accesible toilets measuring over 1600 x 2200mm, accessible toilets have seperate entrances
- staircases and lifts will allow firefighters to access the lower level wheelchair lift
5m+ 18m18m18m5m+
- ramps will be a 1:20 gradient and under 8 metres long
- 18m escape routes for disabilities, but fire escapes have been reduced, following advice from a fire engineer that companies would not pay for this many fire escapes
- stairs provided on each storey, with direct access to the stair with minimum size of 900mmx1400mm
- all lifts have been transformed into evacuation lifts, compliant with BS59999 and BS9991 and are over 1100mm wide and 1400mm deep - railing will be set at 1100m
- spiral public stairs for use by large numbers of people at one time and used in places of public assembly should be a minimum 150mm rise per tread, and a minimum width of 1000mm
- for escape pruposes, every part of each storey should have access to more than one stair
- materials that have been chosen are aimed for longer structural integrity, giving users more time to escape and comply with the regulations
- each space will be connected to their own sprinkler system, as well as fire detection system, Therebye detetcing a fire when it starts to spread, it can contain the fire longer from within and attempt to extinguish it right at the roof.
In 3.1 I looked heavily at wayfinding and positioning my spaces in a way that was familar and not confusing in such a large building, sectioning the building into staff, mind, body and education spaces. I have further shown this in this exploded digram. I will also need to use explicit and intuitive signalling to make navigation of ease for users,
The explicit wayfinding aids employed in this context primarily consist of signs. One type of sign is a visual directory, which employs arrows to guide individuals towards their desired location. Additionally, there are icon signs and “large type” signs, both of which aid people in understanding the purpose of each place and confirming when they have reached their intended destination.
The intuitive aids in this context include the floor colourings and the timber lamella on the facade. The floor pattern consists of lighter sections that create a visual pathway, effectively guiding people in the right directions. As mentioned before, the timber lamella curves around the building, revelaing entrances and exits to the building. These methods simplify the decision-making process of where to go and in what order, reducing potential overwhelm or anxiety for individuals who may be neurodivergent.
C O M F O R T
The combination of multiple natural and mechanical systems allow to control the interior climate to comfortable levels.
I have used a greywater and rain water collection system to reuse water throughout the building. Irrigation systems will also be used for external and internal vegetation as internal reuse. The timber lamella facade as well as the triple glazing and vegetation reflect serve as an acoustic barrier, and the glass facade allows the building to benefit from passive solar gains, and heating the building increasing themral comfort. The operable windows also boost the internal natural ventilation as well as the fountain that creates airflow through the building.
Services will be hidden using a suspended ceiling system for aesthetic reasons.
MMU Main Campus
Birley Fields Campus
Walking time
Walking routes to Main Campus
Walking routes to Birley Fields
OASIS aims to further connect both Birley Fields campus and the MMU main campus as it is located between the two areas, as well as bringing people together and being a valuable part of the Hulme community as it will be a quick access hub for mental health services and a safe haven.
In my scheme, I have acknowledged the pressing reality of the climate emergency and its profound implications for our planet and future generations. OASIS, with its holistic approach to mental health and well-being, embodies our commitment to a future where environmental stewardship and human flourishing go hand in hand. By embracing cutting-edge technology, computational thinking, and a complex scientific framework, we aim to challenge static design methods and as a result, contribute to a zero-carbon future.
The incorporation of biophilic design principles and a connection to nature exemplifies the belief in the healing power of the natural world. Through a thoughtfully designed courtyard adorned with abundant vegetation, I have aimed to create a space for relaxation and rejuvenation, while also promoting biodiversity and ecological balance.
Furthermore, the commitment to sustainability is evident in the design’s circular economy principles and future-thinking approach. From the use of renewable materials such as timber to the integration of rainwater harvesting systems, I have aimed to minimize the buildings environmental impact and promote responsible resource management.
Inclusivity and neurodivergence are integral aspects of OASIS’s design. We strive to create an environment that is accessible, safe, and welcoming to all, fostering a sense of belonging for students and the surrounding community. By collaborating with the prestigious Brookes building at MMU, we enhance existing facilities and expand mental health care, while also promoting innovation and transformative breakthroughs, without a complete rebuild of Brookes.
Ultimately, OASIS represents more than a physical structure—it symbolizes a sanctuary for the mind and soul, encouraging personal growth and healing. As we embark on this journey, we remain steadfast in our commitment to address the climate emergency, promoting the harmonious coexistence of humanity, nature, and innovation.
By acknowledging the climate emergency and integrating sustainable practices into my design, I hope to inspire individuals to embrace a shared responsibility for the well-being of our planet and the collective pursuit of a more sustainable future.
In the garden space, I wanted to create a safe haven in the centre of the building, a safe escape. I have added both a large amount of plant diversity and places to sit and expereience the garden. It also serves as a social spot, where people on paths leading to different sections of the building can interact.
The main facades are facing princess road and the MMU campus so to create an acoustic barrier, I have used lots of trees on the princess road side as well as the wooden lamella which will be useful in terms of lighting, acoustics and aesthetics. I hope for the building to attract attention by passersbye, as a landmark, inviting people in as it will be open to the community as well as students.
SCALED TO FIT
When considering the main areas in the building that cater to wellbeing, it is important to focus on spaces that improve and re lax the mind and body, as well as facilitate education and research. To better visualize these spaces, I have rendered the some key spaces that focus on either mind, body, and education spaces. In the mind spaces, I have used calming colors and soft lighting to create a peaceful atmosphere that promotes relaxation and introspection while incorporating modern technology, extensive libraries, and collaborative workstations to provide an enriching environment for learning and research. These renders bring the envisioned spaces to life, revealing a transformative sanctuary that nurtures the mind, body, and educational pursuits.
M
B
Lighting in and aroud the building will be Human Centric LED’s which prove better for neurodivergency and mental health rather than fluorescent lights, and will be interchangeable to different colour settings but the main colour will be a light blue colour, which is shown to create a soothing effect while increasing productivity and creativity.
I received encouraging feedback from my tutors regarding my design decisions in 3.1, which pleasantly surprised me. The researc h conducted during 3.1 proved invaluable in shaping the development of my project. Engaging with clients and seeking input from engineering specialists prompted a re-evaluation of my planning approach.
During 3.2, I embraced digital skills and pushed my boundaries, exploring the vast potential of design. Despite the time constr aints imposed bythe deamnds of the technology project the two projects synergized seamlessly, enabling further refinement and testing of my design concept. This process also facilitated the adoption of appropriate building methods and materials.
A T E L I E R P O S I T I O N
The atelier position has been a perfect way to both isnspire and drive my design. While focussing on zero carbon futures, bioph illic design and inclusivity, I was able to create a scheme which satisfied all of these aspects, while creating a building that I feel would personally benefit MMU and also take the cons iderations of what the clients wanted in the new proposal. Through combining both the heath and education department, it was easy to link into promoting mental health and wellbeing in th e form of a structure that acts as a place for both students and community. I have truly enjoyed this challenge and the proposal that I have created
T E C H N O L O G I E S
Technologies proved to be exceptionally valuable in expanding my understanding of the significance of meticulous detailing and strategic positioning of technical equipment within my proposal. Through engaging with the content and activities, I gained invaluable insights that have deeply influenced my approach t o designing spaces. One of the most crucial takeaways from this unit was the heightened awareness it instilled in me regarding the critical role of services such as electrics, plumbing, HVAC, and other vital systems that operate behind the scenes in the overall functionality and efficiency of a building. Although initially stressful, this knowledge is invaluable.
H U M A N I T I E S
Although my humanities module was something that was very different to my ateliers position, it taught me about the history of architecture and factory, as well as buildings like schools and workhouses during the industrial period. Looking back at the poor conditions at the time and the state of mental health in more personal stories which I looked at in my essay, it shows how far we have come in terms of design for the person, and creating a healthy working environment in institutions. The researc h and reading I did for humanities was truly eye-opening, and further pushed me to create a scheme that proved healthy for all groups
F U T U R E P E R S P E C T I V E
Anticipating the transition into an architecture practice, I am filled with eagerness and excitement for the journey that lies ahead. As I reflect on the experiences and knowledge gained throughout this year, I realize that it has provided me with a valuable glimpse into the realities of professional architectural practice. The professional studies lectures, in particular, have played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding of what to expect in this next phase of my career.
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‘PAS 6463:2022’ (2022). BSI: United Kingdom.
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(No date) NIST Handbook 44: Specifications, tolerances, and other technical ... Available at: https://www.nist.gov/system/files/documents/2023/01/30/2023%20NIST%20 Handbook%2044.pdf (Accessed: 25 May 2023).
BS 9991:2015 Fire Safety in the design, management and use of residential buildings - code of Practice (incorporating Corrigendum No. 1) (no date) Go to the main NBS website. Available at: https://www.thenbs.com/PublicationIndex/documents/details?DocID=315851 (Accessed: 25 May 2023).
Standard for fire safety in commercial buildings revised (no date) BSI. Available at: https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/about-bsi/media-centre/press-releases/2017/january/Standard-for-fire-safety-in-commercial-buildings-revised/ (Accessed: 25 May 2023).
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