Component 1

Component 1 Izabela Grzesiakowska

Table of Ideas Type of project

Theme

Ideas and Directions

Influence Words

Sport

Natural & Organic

Sporting complex

Passion, Sociable, Improvement

Infrastructure

Industrial & Mechanical

Connecting place & Community

Exploration, Outdoor, Stimulating

Domestic

Linear

Community Housing complex

Shared, Improvement, Calming

Commercial

Movement & Flow

High Tech Design Centre

Professionalism, Curiosity, Exploration

Leisure & Entertainment

Natural & Organic

Library Communication Centre

Educational, Calming, Community

Commercial

Structures & Environments

Veterinary Practice

Devotion, Deconstruct, Shared

Leisure & Entertainment

Industrial & Mechanical

Internet Video Studios

Exploration, Curiosity, Assembly

Infrastructure

Freedom & Restrictions

Automotive museum

Community, Stimulating, Educational

Commercial

Linear

Factory & product promotion centre

Health, Professionalism, Outdoor

Infrastructure

Juxtaposition & Contrast

Art Gallery

Deconstruct, Passion, Technical

Design Brief and Specification Design Brief: With the growing world and the technological advances we have today, libraries have seen a decrease in the numbers of people visiting their sites. To make local libraries thriving there needs to be a new aspect in these libraries.

Your task is to create a more communal environment, where people are able to come visit for reading and study purposes but also to meet new people and socialise. Creating an area like this will bring more people to libraries and will create more of a community area for the locals. It will help expand the area, where it will be located, by giving more people the idea that there is a well-designed place in this location. This will be important in creating more places with a greater range of purposes with taking up less space by allowing other buildings to be built elsewhere.

The building should include a study area, a reading area and a space for communal purposes. The building also needs to draw interest from people, so that they are willing to come to the newly built library. Create a more connected environment that meets the needs of different users and allows them to do various things, instead of just reading.

The theme of the site should be natural and organic.

Specification: • It must have many study areas.

• It must have multi-use space for different purposes.

• It must have a communal space on the site.

• It must have an area dedicated for the storage of materials, eg: books.

• It must have a natural and organic theme.

• It must be accessible to every visitor.

• It should have colours that aren't too distractive.

• It should be unique to the area its located in.

• It should have a parking area on site.

Location

This is a map of the nearby area, including where and how many libraries there are. The library that I will design will need to be further away from other libraries, so that others from the local area, where there is not a library nearby, can visit this one. It should be unique to the area it is located in, so could be located away from bigger roads and more urban areas of East London. This would also mean that there will be more trees in the nearby area, which would improve the overall scenery around the library that I will design in this project.

Having more libraries closer to housing areas will allow local people to be able to visit it, as it is closer and they won't have to travel very far. This is also important in helping the local areas grow.

This is the area that I have chosen to locate the building in. It is an area near Bournebridge with many local houses around it. The scenery in this area is very green, which is appealing to everyone. The site is right next to a main road, which means that more people will be able to be aware of the library as they drive past. This will lead to more visitors coming to the building. There is no library in this area, which is important as it allows more people to come to this new one from the local area.

Designing an area that is on an empty field will be easier, as it can fill in the empty space with a building and would be better to build the structure on as it is a flat surface. The structure should be unique from the area it is located in, which will make it eye catching. Most of the houses in the area are very similar in style, so adding an element of uniqueness to the area will add something interesting. I think that placing a library with a communal area in this location will help the local area grow.

This is a SketchUp image of the space that I have chosen to design the library on. This is the area compared to a person, who is in the corner of the image. I think that the space is large enough for the building to be designed on.

It is an irregular trapezium, where the main library building can be placed as well as the communal area. It is also possible for the site to include a small parking area for the convenience of people coming to visit the library. There are two bus stops on the main road, which would help draw more people to the area due to transport links being very close. I aim to place many trees, bushes and flowers so that the site feels less urban, as cities don’t have a large amount of trees. There are trees already around 3 sides of the space, so I want to keep most of them where they are. This doesn’t destroy nature and keeps the greenery in the area, which is important as we feel more relaxed around the green colour of plants. I think that there needs to be an entrance to the site with a view of it from the road, where no trees are blocking it, for the purpose of its appearance to draw visitors over. This also creates a sense for the building to be tall enough to peak over the taller trees.

Location in SketchUp This is a SketchUp model of the nearby area surrounding the site. This gives an idea of context and scale, compared to houses nearby.

This creation of the site helps me understand the scale and shape of the area, and how the structure of the site can be useful to improve the concept of the library design.

I have come up with ideas of how the layout of the site can work as a whole. I prefer the first idea of the layout, as people are able to see the library structure from the road and can walk up to it from the sidewalk, instead of needing to walk through the parking. I also like that the outdoor space touches the main building area, as I am then able to design the pavilion in this space that will touch one side of the library. The parking area can be on the side of the site to separate the busy zone from the quieter building zone.

Mood Board These ideas are expressing the theme of natural and organic.

A lot of the forms on the photographs have a focus on the flow of the lines and curves throughout them. I like the idea of the repeated pattern in most of the natural pieces. The lines on many of them are interesting due to the curves they all create, which can be used to make a very different model, compared to many cubic buildings.

I have also focused on the colours that many of the natural and organic forms have, which consists of various types of green, yellow, brown, white and grey. Other plants, like the flower can have more vibrant colours, making it stand out. Focusing on the main colours can influence the look of the building I am developing and make it fit well with the other buildings in London.

Since there are not many buildings near the site with bright colours, the library would stand out too much.

These are a few buildings that incorporate the idea of natural and organic forms. I think that the overall focus in most of the buildings is the curves of the edges and lines. The exterior of these structures is interesting, as it is not just rectangular like many other buildings. The shapes they include are interesting, while some have more defined edges, creating a unique idea.

The colours of these structures are duller and plainer compared to the forms found in nature, but this gives the overall view of the location to be more similar to the other buildings. Focusing on colours, such as white, cream and blue can create a good image of the exterior of the structure.

In my opinion, these structures will be useful to look at to give me ideas and help me understand the movement of flow and the different forms that can be formed from these.

Mood Board Ideas These drawings are simple ideas taken from the mood boards in order to visualise the basic idea of the flow of the shapes, so that these can further be developed.

The main ideas that the mood board presents are the focus of flow and natural forms. Many of the forms have curved lines and rounded edges, reflecting the theme of natural and organic. The concept is broad and some of the most interesting shapes can be used to create new ideas in the library structure.

The forms that I like are the ones with flowing lines and ones that look natural. These are initial and basic concepts that appeal the most to my site and design, which can be copied similarly onto the exterior or interior of the library building. Including aspects, such as the branched structure and the irregular waved lines, can bring an instant idea to the visitors that this site’s theme is natural and organic. I think that using some aspects of these forms, included with research, can create a building that can look aesthetic and unique. Standing out from the buildings and houses surrounding due to the design, can make it seem more appealing to people and more will willingly visit the area. I think that it is important to have parts of the structure and site include such examples of forms, for the overall architecture of the site to be individual when compared to the others.

The structures I have focused on are unique to the others and are fragments of the mood board that are the most interesting. In my opinion, the most interesting structures are the ones with more natural frames and exteriors. Such buildings are more modern and appealing to todays era. Creating more structures like this gives many new forms within architecture.

These drawings are aspects that are the main structural form, which include natural forms, such as waves and curves. The repeating pattern in some is aesthetically pleasing, creating a reason for the design style used. I like that most of the shapes within these structures are manipulated in a way to create looks similar to other objects, for example the flower-shaped building idea is taken from flower petals.

In my opinion, the architecture of these buildings reflects the theme very well, and are very successful in the way they are used. Forms like these improve the appearance, as the new buildings are not squareshaped and older looking. The ideas are well used.

Primary Research The theme for the design is natural and organic.

These photos that I have taken in my garden are of plants and include organic and natural shapes.

The type of each plant is different, which means that each one has a different shape and style to the structure of them. The photos show that many of the natural colours are different shades of green, white, pink, yellow, red and brown.

Many of the leaves of the plants have a tip on the end and the petals of some of the flowers are wider and go to a thinner point. This shape can give an idea of an aspect of the building to use for the design of the library in this project. I have also noticed that the natural formations of leaves can be useful as it forms a pattern on the surface of it, which can be replicated in a design.

Each plant shape has given me ideas for drawings to create. These will then give me ideas to use in the building design. I have looked at their shapes, sizes and colours, as well as how the lines of the leaves and the petals flows through the plant. Many of these lines are waves, curves or straight lines.

In my opinion, the shapes of these plants will influence an aspect of design in at least part of the site. Each one has a different style, so some will work with the building and some will not. I think that the plants with more simpler shapes can be used. The drawings on the left side of the page have lines that flow and are quite simple. This can broaden the ideas that derive from these and I think that more aspects of these can then be used.

Primary Research

These different rocks show a natural and organic theme and have interesting shapes. I have used these shapes and drawn images of how I interpreted them. The first rock has many lines and patches of colour, while the second rock has crystal-like shapes and is mainly clear white with a purple tint. Both of them can lead to many ideas for the concept of organic nature in architecture by their curves, lines, peaks and colours, where these can be mimicked to create a roof that is in a similar shape to the rocks. There could also be a feature wall with patterns or shapes that are like these ideas from the rocks.

The drawings here are my ideas from the photos of the rocks that I have taken. I have shown lines and how they form into shapes that are on the rock surface. The first rock drawings are rough and don’t have sharp edges. This type of rock gives me an idea of a building that looks like a mountain of rock and forms peaks.

There are rough edges, like the first rock, and could also have natural colours, such as brown, white, grey, orange, red and light brown. The second rock gave me ideas to draw crystals and shapes with peaks for each piece. These drawings are more smooth on the sides than the first set of drawings, but have sharp edges.

Their crystal structure is natural and can be found deep underground with other types of rock. This gave me ideas to draw a building with peaks as the roof, with glass as the material since crystals are almost fully transparent with a geometrical form.

Primary Research Ideas The research on the plants and rocks helps create an idea of how the theme of natural and organic are joined together. Using the photos and drawings I have produced, I have created more drawings of ideas of where the theme can be used on the site.

The first drawing shows an idea of part of the communal area as hedges of different heights being surrounded by paths. This increases the greenery on the site and adds an interesting feature of the outside area. It reminds me of the Thames Barrier Park hedges. The second drawing shows an idea of how the entrance to the library can be created. It is a brief idea of the rock shape and texture being used around the doors for an aspect of the theme as people enter the building.

The third drawing shows what kind of structures can be placed in the communal area for design.

The flowers can be made of steel and coloured, or left as the steel colour, for more objects to be outdoors for viewing. The fourth drawing portrays a bookshelf with aspects of the crystals that are part of one of the rocks. It can be designed that all the bookshelves have these peaks, or some could be placed in one area and include them. The fifth drawing is what the lights inside the library could look like. The design is based on two of the plants that I have in my primary research. The last drawing is another outdoor structure with aspects of plant leaves and edges. These structures can be placed to draw interest from people visiting.

The Research Library in Hradec Králové The first building that caught my attention is this library in Czechia. It was built in 2008 by Projektil Architekti. It has an area of 2920 m2.

This library is housed in two of the legs of a large “X” shape, which is made from precast concrete. The study rooms and bookshelves are distributed on three levels inside, which are enlightened by light coming in through the circular windows. The exterior of the building has many circular windows on the side walls, which create a repeating pattern, and includes larger circular windows on the flat roof.

The largest window on the roof is right in the centre of the "X". From the path leading up to the building, we can enter the library, where there is also a café and an exhibition hall. The center of the X locates the main vertical communication illuminated by a circle roof light. The building creates an open public urban space, which complies with the ideas of architects (Projektil) about openness of public buildings in architecture.

In my opinion, the building looks like a chromosome. This is as one side of the "X" is plain with no circular windows, while the other has these. This could show how different each side of the building is as one has windows, while the other does not. I also believe that the flat roof of the building could have problems with draining water off the roof, as its all flat. This could be changed by having a peaked roof to drain the water and add an aspect of better design to the building. The area around the library has many trees, which adds greenery and is a more appealing area within the city.

On the interior, the distribution of people and bookshelves starts from the central point to the rest of the wings of the X. There are bookshelves, study rooms, individual study rooms and a service counter. In the other wings there are offices, storage and a conference hall. The colored floor creates a lighter and more pleasant indoor atmosphere. Inside, there are two wall paintings and a new information system, which allows for more service to be provided for visitors. An important part of the design is also the energy-saving concept it includes.

The area in this elevation is located here

The building includes multiple floors of bookshelves, where the storage of these is very large. Allowing this can improve the reading and education of people visiting as they have a variety and large number of books.

The building is quite large inside since the architects of this space want to bring about the idea of architecture having an openness feeling while inside the public space. In my opinion, this creates a better feeling for visitors as they can walk to wherever they want. Others can study in quieter spaces, as the building is large, so they can feel more away from people and distractions for better education and work purposes.

In my opinion, the whole building of the library takes up a larger amount of space than a building of the same area but as a cube shape. However, the shape of this library makes it stand out from the area and makes it unique to other libraries.

The study spaces in this library are spread out throughout the whole building, which may be a better solution than having a large study area in one space.

Joe and Rika Mansueto Library This library is a dome shape, which is placed above the ground. It is made of glass with a net of curved poles. Its an elliptical dome, which makes a great impression on the building. The dome is large enough to fit in many tables with seating and empty space to feel like a less claustrophobic space. The storage of the millions of books is underground on shelves, which fits as many materials as they can in the space that they have. The whole library has a capacity of 3.5 million volumes that are contained under the elliptical dome.

This library is located in Chicago and is part of the University of Chicago. It was named after two university alumni and is placed near the centre of the university. It was designed by architects Murphy and Jahn in 2011. It has an area of 5453 m2.

The dome above the ground gradually rises from the grass around it, and could be described that it flows over the ground. It is made from transparent glass, so it is easy to see inside of the library from the outside. There you can see the layout of the library, which has many study areas.

At night, the library is illuminated and draws attention in the nearby area.

The shell is 120 x 240 feet and the insulated glazing represents an intelligent system for the varying exterior conditions and the desired interior comfort.

The area near the dome includes grass and trees, with a pathway leading around it. There are trees to have an aspect of nature, since the library is on a university campus in the city of Chicago.

The main interior is inside the dome, above the ground. The storage of books is underground. This allows there to be a separation between the study and seating spaces, and the bookshelves. The room for the storage is a large oval shape. This is a similarity to the upper dome of the whole library. The top area reflects the shape of the bottom area, where the bookshelves are very linear in shape. This gives an increased space for storage, as the materials are placed very close together and the bookshelves are higher than most shelves. The interior in the top part under the dome is spacious and has tables around the edges of the walls. There are also many longer wooden tables in the centre of the room. These are made of European White Oak. The grey pillars that are placed around the space add a feeling that the room is quite open, but is separated slightly with these.

In my opinion, this library is more unique than others and has an interesting shape and layout. The architecture blends the circular exterior walls with the linear pattern of tables and shelving on the interior. Having an open space in the study room is a good aspect, as more people can sit separately away from other people and it feels more spacious.

Maranello Library

This is the Maranello Library in Italy and was designed by Andrea Maffei Architects in the year 2011. It was a renovation of a previous building with height and width restrictions, as well as needing to include an underground area for use.

The library shape looks like the theme of natural flow and this is reflected through its exterior walls.

These are a curvilinear shape. This is an important aspect of a building, as this library gives an idea of what kind of aspects of natural flow can be used for the exterior of the building. The roof juts outwards at the entrance and it acknowledges the architecture of the street. The outside area also has water around the whole library that is contained by the tall white walls. This gives another idea of natural flow, as the water has small ripples and waves on the surface. I think that these shapes are reflected through the walls of the library, since the water flows around it. People inside are able to see the reflection of the plants growing across the white walls of the boundaries.

In my opinion, the design of the exterior is very interesting, as not many buildings have a plan of the library like this one. The water adds a touch that adds to the natural theme that the site has. I think it is designed well as it stands out from the area and has enough space on the interior for many rooms. The glass allows others from the outside be able to see inside the library and know it exists as they walk past, since its illuminated.

The project for the library started with three main spaces. These would be a consulting area, a great reading room and multipurpose rooms. The reading spaces were created with particular interest and attention in smaller children up till 11 years old. The higher school and university students have the consulting and study rooms to use, which do not interfere with the other spaces. Inside is a resin floor with white furniture throughout the library.

The basement is accessible by stairs and an elevator.

Any person, even with a disability is able to go to the underground floor of the library. This is important for everyone to be able to use the library fully with everything there available to them. It is a place for storage of historical local archive and for many other books, which increases the volume of material that can be stored under the library roof. The inside overall is very bright with mainly white tables, seating and shelving, as well as many LED lights in the ceiling. I think this is a good aspect, as people will not be distracted from work or study as there is no colourful furniture or walls to do that.

In my opinion, the space of the interior is expanded with the placement of large windows on each exterior wall. This allows people to be able to see outside, and not for the view to be blocked by a plain wall. The main colour of this library makes it look modern in my opinion, which is what today’s architecture is focusing on. The curves of walls creates sections for tables, which separates the people studying, which is better.

Long Shang Bookstore

The Long Shang Bookstore is located in Shanghai, China. The architects are A.C.R.E. Atelier and the building was designed in 2021. The site is 260 m2, which is smaller compared to the other libraries. Its placed at a crossing of a road with the Chen Yuan (College of Arts and Media) and was a renovation of a previous older building with two stories and a pitched roof.

The university it is situated in expects this building to be used as a public space of the campus. Its functions are to be a bookstore, coffee shop, creative arts and salon area after its renewal. The roof of the old building was damaged, so was renewed and raised up slightly. It was fitted with windows on three sides for light to enter. The windows on the south side of the building are narrow where there is a busy road, while on the east side the windows are larger and fully transparent where the Youth River runs. The north side has outdoor windows where the seating is, in order to bring the daily life of the streets into the campus. I think this is a great idea to include in the building, as it gives a different sense of calm and peace within the bookstore. Also, the warm white paint on the concrete walls creates a less contrasting environment.

In my opinion, this bookstore is designed with a lot of thought about the exterior, and its planned well. I like how the windows are different on each side of the building, as this makes it look unique from each side that you look at it from. Also, the curved translucent glass where the stairs are make the exterior more interesting and not the same as the other corners of the building.

However, I think the exterior of this bookstore is plain, as there is only white paint and black trims around some windows, which could be improve by adding one contrasting colour on the outside. This could be painted in certain areas to add effect.

The indoor blue, steel staircase is kept in the same place as in the old building, but there has been a semi-permeable Ushaped glass that has been constructed on the outer part of the stairs. This allows most of the light to enter the building from the corner. From the outside, people are able to just about see someone walking on the stairs through the glass. The interior is also a warm white colour with the structure being wooden.

The shelving for books and arts is wooden with many large semi-permeable shelves, and the steel floor cubes are a dark grey in a few places in the centre of the room on the ground floor. I think the interior has more colours than the exterior, so is more appealing to the eyes.

In my opinion, this building is well done on the inside and on the outside, and looks very new and modern. I think the translucent shelving is used as partition walls to enhance the permeability of the space, as they are situated along the outer walls. I like the shape of the exterior and interior of the building, as it goes well together and is unique to the buildings that surround it. The smooth edges can also imply the theme of natural flow, as they mainly don’t have identical corners which you don’t find in nature. It flows around the corners and the building is also situated on a corner.

Secondary Research Ideas The secondary research on buildings led me to these ideas for the exterior of the library building.

These are brief ideas, but if I chose that some will be used in the final design of the building, I will develop them further with more ideas.

The first drawing shows an idea of what parts of the exterior walls could look like. I included ideas from The Research Library, where there were circular windows and the walls all had a pattern along them. I don’t think this is a good design for the walls, since the windows would be scattered on all the walls, and the pattern of that could be too confusing to look at. The second drawing is an idea of a rectangular building with square windows on the exterior, and is also based on The Research Library. There is a pattern of lines included, which is similar to the library I have researched. I like the look of it, as the building is in a repeating pattern of windows from the ground up.

These two lower drawings are ideas that I have gotten from the Joe and Rika Mansueto Library.

The first shows a building with a glass dome that has part of a linear wall. This idea is good, as it is not a basic rectangular building and has a sense of interest because of the elliptical dome. The other building is rectangular with a pillar in one corner.

The windows wrap around the whole building on each floor, and there is a glass roof for more light. I think this could be a good idea, as more natural light is able to enter the building during the day.

The top two drawings are based on ideas from the Maranello Library. The first is a plan view of a possible building shape. It is made up of corners, curves and flowing walls, with circular windows.

However, I think that this is not the best idea of a design as there isn’t a fixed theme and the shapes may not go well together as a real building. The second building is similar to the library I have researched and has the same floor windows that are around on the exterior walls. The roof has a large dome made of glass to let light in, and has wave-like shapes on the outsides of the roof. I think that the building is quite basic and could be designed more with better shapes fitted to the theme of the library.

I have used ideas from the Long Shang Bookstore to create these drawings of buildings. The first drawing is a closely related idea based on the bookstore. The shape is similar and includes large semi-permeable windows on the exterior. I think that the windows would be better when they were not all semi-permeable and that the second floor can be extended for more space. The other drawing is an idea of a building in the shape of many cubes. It has many overhangs and holes in the exterior which make it look like the whole cuboid has cubes missing. The shape of the building could be interesting, but the interior would be difficult to arrange.

In my opinion, the secondary research is very important as it gave me ideas for the exterior of the final design of the library building.

Site Research for Structural Purposes

This is site research for a house in Shimoaojima, which is located in Japan. I have looked at the style of architecture it has and how the layout serves its purpose. The exterior is made from grey steel and the base structural frame is made of solid wood and reinforced concrete. It is a simple framework, but it holds the building securely. The spiral stairs in the centre of the building creates a centrality. It distances itself from the other buildings due to the unique design of the interior, with many floors at different height levels on each side.

The interior is well lighted with many windows around the whole building and skylights on the roof. Natural lighting is a key feature in this building to create a more peaceful atmosphere.

These drawings show the building as elevations and perspectives. I have understood that the supporting pieces are pillars of wood and concrete. These are very strong in holding up a building and go well together in these colours. The large windows make the top steel part look like its not held up by anything, since the windows make the stripe in between look like its not there as its transparent. I think that the whole building exterior goes well with the interior, as the colour scheme is similar, with grey and wooden objects and furniture. The structural frame plays a huge role in this as the walls inside the centre of the building are part of the frame and are mainly grey concrete.

In my opinion, the building is well planned out with the structure to fit the design of the building. An idea from this design can be used in the library in the form of structural pieces. Wooden supports are very useful in buildings and many have them showing. I think that using wood as frames or the walls is a good idea as I am aiming to have more of the theme inside the library that I will design. This building has clearly shown me the way the structure is created and how it can be similarly replicated in another building.

Site Research for Wooden Free Forms These are free form structures made of timber, which is solid and durable. This wood structure is like pillars that are supporting the ceiling. I like the way that they branch out and curve towards different places as they look like trees. Having a creative aspect in any building makes it seem less simple, and this can draw people to come to the building. I think that being in the building with more structures and design will be more appealing to people visiting. The drawings created are a look closer at how these structures are built, and they look like wooden rectangular pieces that are as if trees are growing out of the ground. This relates to the natural and organic theme.

The wooden wave-like roof of this building overhangs the side that the balcony is on. It looks like a repeating pattern across the whole side of the roof. The panels of wood are placed in one direction, which creates a lined pattern. The roof of this creates shade in front of the building and allows for the placement of outdoor seating and tables. An important aspect of this is having a space outside for people to sit, as it not only creates more space for the maximum seats available, but also provides shelter to the outdoor area from rain or bad weather. I think an area like this is useful to have on the site because it makes a larger variety of spaces to sit at.

In my opinion, due to the theme I have chosen, having pillars or another piece of architecture that is natural and organic will create a better fitted building and have interesting aspects of design. Also, it is a good idea to have an outdoor area covered by a roof overhang or under a pavilion, which could be part of the communal area I plan to place on the site next to the library.

Site Research for Communal Outdoor Areas The site I am designing will include an outdoor area, which will be used for seating, eating or studying. There should be tables and seats, as well as individual benches for people that would like some time away from the busy areas. Within these areas will be trees, hedges and flowers surrounded by paths. There can also be areas with grass to make the space look more open in certain areas and for visitors to be able to also sit down on.

The top two drawings show ideas of areas with grass, hills and trees. The first has a wide path, which is better for busier areas, and a lot of flat land around so that the space does not feel crowded. This is an important aspect for busier areas in the city, but I think that the library site will not be very crowded due to it being in a smaller town. The other drawing shows an idea of wooden seating on the sides of small hills. I like this idea as it is not plain flat areas of grass, but looks more interesting and natural. The seating stretches across a lot of the sides, which increases the amount of seats that are available in this area. The last drawings show an idea of having raised areas on the site in different places to create a more varied design. These could be accessed by steps or stairs, or they could be a raised platform. Keeping the flow in the edges also relates to the theme.

Site Research for Pavilion Structures The drawings are showing some ideas of possible pavilion shapes that could be used in the outdoor area of the site, or could be placed right next to the library building where part of the roof is touching the wall of the building. I have researched the materials that the pavilions are made from and most of them use multiple materials.

Some use a flexible bamboo design, concrete, acrylic, steel, wound flax fibre, wood or glass.

These are all constructed from different materials and have different shapes. I like the pavilion idea with the triangular roof design, which is made from steel. It looks orderly and consists of repeating triangles that are held up by poles. The other ideas are unique and have unusual shapes.

This could add to the idea of the site being natural, having the idea that the flow of the shaping forms however it wants.

In my opinion, adding a pavilion that goes with the theme is useful as it not only adds to the overall look of the place, but also creates a place where people can sit.

Site Research for Interior Areas The images are photos of spaces within existing buildings and these have given me an idea of areas that I could include in the library that I am designing. I think that creating spaces like this will allow people of any ages to use these, as well as increasing the amount of seating or shelving in each area, which could be for multiple purposes. It could be useful to include a children's area for them to make a bit more noise than the rest of the adults in the library. Also, I think that by placing these in various areas throughout the building, more people could be willing to stay for a longer time in the library because of the interesting design that it includes. This could be good in drawing people to come and visit the site.

In my opinion, I think that this library is well laid out, as seen on the plan drawing, since it has the colourful areas located throughout the library. This is important to allow everyone to see them, which draws attention, and for these to be closer to people using the whole library, instead of being in the corners. Also, I think that sometimes this layout may not be useful as it takes up a lot of space by being separately placed in the centre areas.

Site Research for Interior Structures This is the Vennesla Library and Cultural Centre in Norway and is a learning centre. The ‘ribs’ of the library combine structure and functionality into an architectural element that creates a unique design. 27 of the laminated timber pieces line the ceiling of the building, with curves on the sides to function as seating spaces. The spaces between the ‘ribs’ allow for natural light to enter, creating a more comfortable working light.

The structure on the exterior reflects the interior by having part of the building appearing to have vertical lines that are similar to the ‘ribs’. I think that the outer wall of this looks like a book with pages as the vertical lines create this impression. This type of structure is called curtain walls.

In my opinion, I believe that this is an interesting aspect to include in the structure of the library I will be designing. Having areas like this in the building will draw attention to the design as well as saving space by using the structure for other purposes like reading, working or as a relaxing space.

Modelling Ideas These photos are of different feathers, which are part of the theme of natural and organic. By looking at them from close up, I can see lines and grooves across the whole feather. Also, the patterns on each one are unique to the rest and some have forms of patches and colour. Not all of them are straight, as some feathers have parts that are separated from the rest, which can create even more intricate designs.

For modelling, I can focus on the shape of the feathers and how the lines form a continuous pattern across the whole feather. I like that each one has a different pattern of yellow, black or grey, as it shows how natural they are. I think that using these ideas can create models that are different and unique from the other models, which can further give ideas for developing these. The drawings show how a variety of shapes and designs can be created from simple outlines.

Modelling Ideas These are photos of a lemon and a cucumber. Both of these have shapes that have naturally formed have similar yet different curves and folds.

These can be reflected in models, which will make them more able to flow together. The refined ideas that are drawn show the shapes that the lemon and cucumber forms, focusing on the irregular shapes of the pulp in the lemon, and the seeds in the cucumber in one out of the three areas. I think that these shapes can be used in modelling.

The ideas that I have taken from these are shapes with a lot of curves and repeated irregular shapes in some areas. The sizes for each vary and can be created by making some pieces larger and some smaller to create a contrast of size and levels.

I think that the lemon and cucumber gave ideas that are more natural and help me to see the way they are formed. I like that the forms are simple and also have colours that are bright, making it better to view and more fascinating.

Modelling Ideas The shells presented here have various shapes and grooves. They mainly have lines over the whole of the shell structure that start at the centre and finish on the edges. The colours of these shells are pale and are similar to the colour of sand. The spiral on one of the shells is like a Fibonacci spiral with other small holes and indents along it, making it a less simple of a natural design. The drawing presents this aspect as a flat form, for the shapes to be seen and understood easier.

The grooves and ridges are shown in this drawing. This is a closer look at the shells from the side and underneath. I can see that there is a pattern across the length of the shell, creating a natural form.

Modelling Ideas These photos are of human bones, that are also part of the theme of natural and organic. I have visited the British Museum and viewed the exhibit with these human remains from Egypt. I have noticed that most of these bones are of a dark brown colour and each skull has the same shape. It shows how the ideas from this can be used to create models with the same pieces, which will have the aspect of bones in humans.

Outlines that I have taken from these are of the skull, where they are curved with some straighter edges. The drawing of the skull is focused on the shape of the outline, which can be copied into a model idea.

The drawing of the teeth is a close-up view of the teeth I have seen in the exhibit. They were not exactly straight, with each one of different shapes and sizes. They gave me ideas of pieces in the model that can be of various levels and heights to make the models more intriguing to look at by visitors.

I think that the forms of these bones also create a contrast, as the bones of the head are of different shapes compared to the bones of the body, for example the ribcage and the legs.

These are more elongated and thinner, which can also be replicated as pillars or straighter pieces in the models. Slight curves can be created with materials that can bend, which will allow for more of a variety of materials that will be used and tried out.

Model Making The model that I have created is an idea of the feathers that are on the previous slides. I have cut out two pieces of card that have lines, which separate into different heights. The models are useful in giving ideas of what better looking, and better structural shapes of the buildings can be transferred to the library in my project. The first model is constructed with the same shapes, and one is laid on top of the other one. The top piece relies on the other piece to be held up and positioned. White card is used, and it is able to bend clearly and curve, which leads to more possibilities to make shapes with this material. The straight pieces are at various heights and look similar to the feathers of birds. Feathers have lines and grooves along the length of them and joined with other feathers they can be at different lengths and heights.

The building structure gives ideas on how the frame of the library can look like. I think that the frame of the building needs to be basic so that outer walls can look more impressive with other designs and aspects. The model creates quite a large space inside, however I think that the lower piece of the model should be raised up higher to allow a larger area under the roof of it. Taking up space wouldn't be useful in a real building, as space inside needs to be as large as it can be. This is needed for the building to have more area inside for resources and furniture. The style for the models is important as it needs to symbolise a natural and organic theme and be relevant.

The second model is one where both of the previous pieces are joined together to create a pattern. The pieces are weaved in and out in irregular ways, and this creates a pattern that is also irregular.

This kind of aspect could be used for a feature wall on either the exterior or interior of the library. The pattern could also be replicated as the roof of a pavilion that would be next to the library.

These are drawings from the other slides of model ideas. They show the idea of this model being built as a building with an inclusion of a basic door and window to show the scale. The drawing presents the idea of the pieces on the roof being linear and some being higher than others for a more interesting design. Developing the design of this idea in this way allows there to be more space next to the building for seating. There is a roof over this area which can protect from rainy weather. The area for seating on this site will increase, meaning that more people are able to come and visit the library and also, more will be able to spend a longer time here at the same time.

The pattern that has been created from the two pieces of the previous model can be used as a pavilion as well. This would be an idea where the top of the pavilion can be this pattern, which will create more space for seating. The drawing shows this idea as a reality, where the pattern can also be reflected on the pillars of the pavilion. I think this would be a good way of showing the theme of this site.

Model Making These models are also inspired by the feather shapes, where individual feathers are laid on top of each other on the bird's body. These pieces are all the same shape and are arranged into a pattern. This model is quite wide at the base and gets wider at the top on one side, as the top pieces are sloped to the ground. It consists of many pieces that also change the space inside to have more sloped walls. This, in my opinion, could not be practical as the interior should be an open plan, as much as it could possibly be. The exterior looks repetitive, but each piece can have a different style of the walls or the windows to look more interesting and more appealing to the theme of natural and organic.

The model is wide, so would take up a lot of space on the site, where each area is important. This could be changed so that the model is using less pieces and stacking more of these pieces on top of each other to hold them up.

This adds height to the building and uses up less area on the site that could be used for different pavilions or areas for outdoor seating.

By using the same pieces, I have made another model that is similar to the previous model. The pieces are placed closer together and create a pattern. This shape can be used as a roof or part of the exterior, as well as could be used for the top of the pavilion that will be on site. Such shapes could be used as ideas for other areas, as by looking at the shape it creates. The way the lines flow across the shape can influence other aspects of the library. The theme of this can reflect the natural and organic idea I have in mind. This model also looks like feathers, but they are inverted compared to the other model. However, I think this is not a good idea for an area of the site as it takes up quite a large amount of space and not many spaces can be created from this shape. It wouldn't be practical as a large space, but this design can be used in smaller places, either above the ground or on walls.

The ideas that these models imply are ones of flow and patterns, which could be useful in creating a more interesting design on the site. Aspects of these can be used in the roof, or parts of the pavilion, where these could also reflect the theme of natural and organic due to the idea that these came from the way feathers are laid.

These drawings show the ideas that I have produced to visualise the structures that could come from these shapes. The first drawing shows a walkway leading to the roof of the structure and spreads out to form spaces where people can view the surrounding areas of the site and beyond the site. The drawing presents the idea that the ground floor roof can be accessed by visitors. The second drawing shows an idea of the model having large windows on some sides, as well as walls on a few sides. Creating a structure like this represents the model and leads to it being wide on the ground, thus taking up a lot of space. An improvement could be using less structure features on the sides and place more on top to form levels to the building. I have also made a SketchUp model of the shape of one of the pieces to be able to visualise these in 3D. The other drawings show how the second model has been created from the pieces of the previous model, where the arrows show the flow of the different pieces. This reflects the pattern of feathers. This visual idea helps with creating a similar pattern for an aspect of any of the structures that will be on the site. The last two drawings show how this pattern can be used in buildings, where it can create a pavilion to the side of the library. The theme can be shown through these shapes, which will further lead to the building being more interesting and sophisticated on the exterior.

Model Making This model (right side) is an idea based on the shape of the Maranello Library that I have researched. The shape of this is similar to the design of the outside of the library. The wire is bent into a wave, that shows how the edges are smooth and include the idea of flow. It is a shape that will give ideas to include in the library structure. The ideal development from this idea can include the basic shape of this, but add more complex shapes, patterns and designs. I like how it looks from the top, but if it is made into a real building visitors will not be able to see it from a big height, so the purpose of showing the shape would be wasted. However, the shape could be used on the ground or as a roof that can be viewed from the underneath.

Adding shapes that are more interesting, rather than a cuboid, add a reason for people to stop and view the architecture of the area where the building is. Using this shape could give more space on the inside, as it creates an area under if this was the roof structure, compared to the other smaller models. The interior could also reflect the exterior, where the inside is a curved shape.

The second wire model on the left is an idea of a building with an overhang. It is made up of various pieces and they are creating an idea of a building that is quite large inside, since it takes up a large amount of space. It is a developed idea from the first wire model and creates a structure to a building with more detail, shapes, and space, as well as showing a visual idea of a building of many pieces.

This model also reflects the shapes of shells. I think that the idea of this developed model is more refined as it is made up of various fragments, which create a building with an open area on one side. There could also be an open area on another side to make a pavilion-looking structure. The shape of the roof looks unique and reflects the theme of natural and organic. This could be a good shape as more furniture items can fit underneath the cover from the structure, as it goes from one point and spreads out into a larger area. The wires across the model could be showing how the whole structure will be held up and would forms poles on the sides.

The models have given me ideas to form these drawings of ideas and structures that are possible to create. The first drawing shows two strips that are bent into waves close to one another. This helps to broaden the theme for this site, and I think this could be useful in an aspect rather than a whole building shape, as it is quite large, and some space may be wasted on the interior due to the shape of the outside. The drawing underneath shows a structure that is similar to the side view of the model. I have included an idea from seashells that I have previously looked at. There are lines and curves visible, which mimics the look of a real shell. The structure can be used as an eating area or a seating area outdoors next to the library building. I also think that the shape of the roof helps bring the theme together, but in the future, I would have changed it to be more of an unusual shape.

The drawings on the left side are based on the whole structure of the other model and incorporate the shape to form new structures. I have formed a building with a few open areas, where there could be entrances and exits. The bottom drawing shows an idea including all the aspects to show the theme and be more unique with the shapes. I like the flowing shapes on the roof and the idea that there is no points or corners in the structure, as it further helps to define the natural and organic theme visually.

Model Making The wire model that I have formed is a piece of wire that is bent into a ball shape. This gives me an idea of how forms in organic and natural shapes can overlap and it now helps me visualise these forms. They are based on the natural forming of the cucumber. The shapes it forms when the wire overlaps can be used in the pavilion shape or a feature on the interior of the library building.

However, the model uses just wire, and this cannot reflect any walls as it is too thin and with many gaps in between. I think it is a model to help see the forms that can be used in aspects on the site, where parts of the model can be taken to form a new idea of a shape. The way the wire overlaps the curved parts can in a simple way form part of a pavilion and used for a more interesting look on the exterior for visitors.

These pieces of card create a more intricate model, where there is a lot of shapes in one area. The model is formed from various different shapes, and I would say it forms more of an artistic composition rather than a building on a site. I would take separate ideas from the model to use as inspiration for the library building or other structures on the site. Each piece has a different form and shape, which makes it able to generate more ideas needed for inspiration. However, I think that the model is not well made, as each of the pieces do not go well together with the rest and do not have an overall flow that is linked to the theme of natural and organic. Many of the shapes are pointy and irregular to the other pieces, which could not fit well with the rest of the design of the library as a whole. I think that more of the ideas in this model will be smaller separate ones from parts of it that could then create a better and more improved version when placed on the site. Linking some ideas from this model together can form more elaborate designs to then make different structures, such as an eating area or a pavilion.

These drawings are ideas similar to the models made, but are also quite different in the shape to make them look more interesting. The first one shows the idea of the curves of lines on the interior of the structure, while the exterior is the outline of those. It goes well with the theme of natural and organic due to the flow and bends in the shape. The other drawing is an idea focusing on the pattern made from the wire to be visible to the visitors to the site from the exterior.

The spaces in between the lines would be either opaque or transparent and made out of glass, so that sunlight can get through to the covered area. I think that structures with patterns like these will draw the attention of the people visiting the site.

The two drawings on the right side are formed from specific parts of the model. These are different to the rest as the drawings have more pointy corners and geometric shapes compared to the others, and these wouldn’t be linked to the theme of natural and organic. I think that structures with these shapes would not go well with the other buildings of the library, as it will be focused on the theme of natural and organic.

SketchUp Modelling This SketchUp model is a small part of the model I have created previously. It allows me to visualise the shape in 3D and see how it can look like as a structure. This helps me by allowing me to see the shape from all sides, from which I can understand the model in greater depth. This shape can be useful to portray the theme of natural and organic, as well as create a large area on the interior. This is important as a large area is needed for a library, as there are many books and shelves to contained on the interior, as well as seating which can be placed in various spaces. This shape can create spaces and in my opinion is an advantage that needs to be considered.

The second SketchUp model is an idea taken from a model I have formed to look like feathers. The pieces here are placed similarly to the previous one and show me the idea again in a clearer view. This structure is one of the ideas I like the most because the structure is unique and can be formed to be used as a pavilion next to the library building on the site. The form can be developed further to change the flat wall into a more interesting form.

I have created this model to be able to visualise one of the previous ideas that I have gained and drawn. This shows curved pieces that have been placed close together but with different lengths to create an irregular pattern across the length of the roof. I think this SketchUp model is successful as it creates a space underneath it for extra useable space and is a simple yet interesting design that is held on pillars. The roof can be improved by adding more shapes and designs to the flatter area, as this is not an intriguing part of the structure and could be used to form more intricate designs. I think that this model has potential to create an inviting space, where it could be made into a pavilion or an entrance to the library.

The model on the right is a more detailed idea showing the way geometric shapes can be used in forming structures.

The pillars form unique structures with triangles, squares, rectangles and polygons, creating more ideas that can be taken. I think that this model is not successful as it contrasts the theme of natural and organic and it would look like it doesn’t belong on the site. I think that it is also quite small for a seating area for example, as the roof is narrow.

Developing Models

This new model has been created using ideas gained from these two previous models. The new model uses straight pieces that are curved over one another in random areas, which do not form a pattern that is repeated throughout the structure. I think that it could be developed into a more sophisticated model.

The drawings present further ideas from this model, where the shape could be changed to fit its purpose better. Also, there could be only one entrance to go under this structure for it to be an activity area on the site.

The other drawing is different as it focuses on the visual aspect, where there is more detail and shapes on the structure. I have modelled this shape using black card, and I think that this would be a more improved version of this model if it were to be made out of these randomly placed straight pieces.

Developing Models

This model is focused on geometric shapes, similar to the style of the previous model. It also features a piece that is held up by a wire that is connected to the highest point. I like this idea as it is different from the rest and creates a much more intricate idea for a building. However, the geometric shapes are contrasting the shape and design of ideas included in the theme of natural and organic. The bottom half of the model could be developed more, with various shapes and a base that has a large amount of interior space. The structural piece that juts out, and is held up by the wire, could be used as an outdoor area for seating under.

Both of the drawings use the idea of the hanging pieces, where in both instances they create an area outside. The shapes used are geometric, but for the library building this can be changed to be better suited with the theme. The first drawing consists of many pieces with straight edges, which helps the interior be expanded more. The second drawing does have a honeycomb pattern for the hanging piece to the side of the entrance, which is part of the natural theme. The shape of it is interesting as it can be created from one continuous line, following the arrows. I like this as it gives the building a sense of unity.

Developing Models The first drawing includes the same feather-like pieces as the model, but in 3 areas. The draw structure is also taller and has more pillars holding it up. I like the shape it formed as it is unusual and interesting.

This new model has a similar look to the first model, as the feather-like pieces are also in this developed model. It has a pillar holding up the structure that is on a tilt, making it be designed as more interesting rather than if it was straight. The outer wall is curved, reflecting the theme, and I also decided to create an indent in the roof. This is so that there is more curves in the structure, but to improve this model there could have been another curve out of the back to match the one in front to make more interior space.

What I like about the model is that it is quite simple and creates an extra area, for example for seating. The feather-like pieces can be placed in other parts of the model to add a greater focus on this design.

The second drawing has a more curved look and has more other shapes than the first drawing. The structure could be improved by changing the overall frame to not include the straight line above the pillar.

Developing Models The drawings both have curved shapes, where the first creates a pavilion that I like the design of. Both drawings of these structures have shapes that form an interesting layout, where the first model has seating as part of the blocks.

The second drawing has more of a variety of shapes and there is many pillars, which could take up some space on the site.

I have also rearranged the shapes of the model to see how the pieces are able to overlap for more ideas.

This model focuses on the curves and waves of the previous models that I have created. It also includes pieces that elevate the others for a more sophisticated design. The model is large, and I think that the area taken up is too large in comparison to the interior area it produces, so it would not be a good structure to place in its current design form. However, I do like the curved shapes and those can be used in the library design, as they suggest the theme of natural and organic. I think that the pieces can be developed to be of different sizes.

SketchUp Modelling This model is a similar style to the one that I have done as a development. It possesses the same features of curved pieces placed slightly apart from one another. This model visualised in SketchUp gives me an overall thought that this may be successful, as there is a lot of space underneath the structure for use and the theme is linked to these shapes.

The design of the structure will stand out as it is large and appeals to the aesthetic of the site. In my opinion, the plain pieces of this model can be redesigned to include other shapes to make the whole area even more interesting. I have tried out adding more shapes to the upper faces of the shapes and have achieved a better look.

This made the model look pleasing and more likely to stand out on the site. I have added triangular shapes on the outer parts of the model, as well as moving the pieces to overlap one another in various places in a random order. This idea changed the structure in an advantageous way, as it created a more realistic version that could be a final idea. I like this model because of the architectural aspect and shape.

The model on the left is a concept of the drawing and model that I have produced. It shows the feather-like pieces that make up the roof and the pillars underneath show how the structure is able to the held up. It forms into a pavilion shape with a large area for seating or other activities. I like the shapes on the roof as they are symmetrical and include a curved edge that would symbolise the theme.

The model on the left is a building that I have drawn from ideas development. This model is quite simple and tall, which can have negative aspects, such as there not being enough space for that many stairs to the top level. I don't think this model will work after looking at it in SketchUp as it doesn’t reflect the theme or create a space that is useful.

Best Solution Ideas I think that these ideas are in my opinion the most developed and improved concepts that can be used in the final design of the library. Each part, piece and idea reflect the theme of natural and organic, which is the focus of this site. The site itself will be separated into the zones shown, which was my first idea, as I think this is the leading choice compared to the other layouts.

This site design has more space for the parking and outdoor area, which are the initial places where they will be walking past to get into the main building.

The models on the side are the most interesting in my opinion, due to the shape and style. They are unique and show the theme very well. I think that the design, that was inspired by feathers, is useful to be included in the exterior of the library or as the pavilion, due to the sheltered space it creates underneath. The second model can be a final feature of the site, as it is different from the rest of my previous ideas. I think that it worked well and could be slightly improved further to form a creative space for visitors. The pillar with beams is similar in shape to this model as there is overlapping that creates intricate designs. I think that these ideas are worth including within the site.

Based on my research of libraries, some of them have interesting shapes of the exterior on the site that they occupy. I in particular like the structural design of the Joe and Rika Mansueto Library and the Maranello Library.

The Joe and Rika Mansueto Library is unique as most of the building is underground. This idea also includes the use of a glass dome over the oval shape of the library, creating a view into the library from the outside. The interior is made into an attractive space, with the thought of being inside a bubble. The overall structure of this library can be an example, where the aspect of domes can be used in my library design.

The Maranello Library includes a visible aspect of natural flow, which straightaway gives it an impressive feature. The plan of this site is irregular and reflects the theme well. I think that this library is one of the more aesthetic ones and I can base the concept of this for the site I am designing, which will help me understand the variety of plans that are able to be used.

Best Solution Ideas I think that the outdoor space is also an important part of the site, as this will be seen at all times from the street and road. The area will include grass and be laid out in a way to also present the theme. Some ideas that I have thought to be the leading ones are how waves can create patterns in sections across the ground. Some places can also have seating, that will be influenced by the other space I have researched about. This is not like the simple benches but has a cut out in a hill to create a long wooden seating platform. In one of the areas there can also be a shelter that may go over an eating space. I liked this shape as there are no corners, but just smooth edges, like in the natural forms.

The interior is also an important aspect of the building and needs to be made interesting for the people visiting the library. The place that I have researched has very unique furniture that are colourful and are spaced out throughout the whole building. This is in my opinion very useful, as people are able to use any of the various different furniture wherever they are in the library, and at least one is close to them.

These can each be a different shape and size, so that anyone of any age can use these.

I think that by using ideas from the natural and organic forms I am able to create intricate designs to include within the interior, on both the walls and the floor. Some shapes which can be included are waves, curves, circles and lines. There could also be pillars throughout the open areas where I can place designs to give a more diverse look.

In my opinion, the interior furniture should be formed using further developed ideas. In comparison to the building that I have researched the interiors for, the furniture in that place is more geometric and uses very bright colours. I think that for the theme, these need to be changed to shapes with more flow but can still be used as examples. Based on the theme, there needs to be more smooth forms with more naturally occurring colours, such as the ones I have named in the primary research. I suggest that this needs to develop into improved versions, where visitors can sit at and study at.

Idea Development These are the main concepts that I have added from previous ideas to be included in the final model of the site. The overhang to the side of the building creates areas for outdoor seating, as well as having a repeating pattern across the entire side. It is large, making it suitable to situate many seating tables underneath it. Having many seating areas may attract more visitors to the site, since it will not be overcrowded to the point where there will be no seating left.

However, I also think that the design of the overhang could be improved to fit more with the overall theme of the site. This would include more curves and natural shapes that would be found in nature. An idea for this can be taken from the primary research.

The pathway made up of curved structures is very effective in creating an interesting area for people to engage with. This idea is one that I think would draw younger children to view it, while it being aesthetically pleasing. The concept of the curves reflects the theme well and each piece being placed in a different position also adds a sense of forms that are naturally made.

Overall, the curved structures create an interesting and eyecatching design, which is important in modern architecture. The overhang will be changed and redesigned to fit better with the theme.

This is the first simple idea of the main building of the library that I had modelled using SketchUp. I have shown where the entrances would be and how the half circle structures would create an area to walk through. I like this idea because it gives an interesting aspect of the outdoor space where visitors can engage with the architecture and walk through the pathway under the structures. I think that the roof will be designed with a more interesting shape, so that the theme of natural and organic can be clearly visualised when first looked at the building. The overhang on the side of the building is very useful in creating an area of seating under it if it is raining. This site layout is good as it has enough space on the interior to create an area for a café and places to read and work.

The roof will be improved for a more interesting design.

Idea Development I have started modelling using SketchUp and have first designed a natural structure that is similar to the shape of a flower. This was then narrowed down to individual leaf shapes and joined together to create another shape, where the pieces overlap. A more intricate model can be made using these pieces, so I got the idea that placing them closer together can create a more interesting shape.

Using the individual shape, I have also experimented with modelling and created an idea including the leaf shape that is curved over a cylinder. This is an interesting model that could be used to make the roof of the library. I think that the overhanging shape can give an overall natural and organic look on the exterior, creating an eye-catching design. Currently, the shape is quite plain and simple, but this will be adjusted to include a better design with more creativity.

I think that the overall shape is effective in expressing the theme of this site due to the wave and curve it creates.

This can be replicated across the whole roof area.

By focusing on the roof and overhang of the library, I have designed a new shape to add interest to the main building when people first arrive at the site. The pieces are made from glass to allow for a hollow look and a possible skylight made from the shape the pieces create on the roof.

The thing I like about this design is that it includes a good aspect of my primary research, as it shows the theme of natural by the use of leaf shapes and the placement of them on the roof. On the other hand, I think that this design is limiting as it is only a leaf shape with no other concepts. The model should be changed to include more ideas from my primary research and create a good impression of the site as a whole.

Idea Development This is the first model of the final design of the site. I have changed the roof of the library to a more interesting design to reflect the theme well. The overhangs are still present but at two places that creates an area for outdoor seating with shelter if it rains. The roof style reflects the design of a shell, and the pieces are placed at angles to each other to form this simple yet complex structure.

This is the structure of the roof that has created the final outcome of the main building of the library. The supports are important in forming the large organic shape to make the roof secure and tensile.

The main building of the library is now created in a form to understand the layout and structures within the site. The main aspects of the building are the large windows to let in a lot of light during the day, and the pathway of circular structures leading to one of the doors.

The model includes seating with tables to show how the outdoor space will be laid out on the site. I think that having outdoor seating improves the area by allowing the site capacity to increase, while also letting people choose if they would like to sit inside or outside to eat.

The green space on the site will provide visitors with a place to relax and admire the architecture of the library from there.

Idea Development

I have added on and improved the site to show my development process. The site now presents more ideas of how the outdoor green space creates an effective area of interest. The site also contains more green spaces near the building to add more trees, bushes and grass to help with the local ecosystems, since modern architecture is shifting to this aspect.

In my opinion, the site is effective in creating a modern public space with many intricate designs on the exterior. The library entrance is redesigned to include windows around the door frame to easily see inside and allow more sunlight into the building. There is also more seating options in the circular shapes that are situated near the outdoor seating area.

The green space includes a pathway from the entrance of the building to the other side of the area to the parking lot. Within this space, there are a few benches as well as more modern seating areas. There is a sculpture to symbolise the theme of this site, as it reflects a wave formation.

The large windows are placed on the corners of the building to allow for a wider view of the outdoors and for natural light to enter the workspaces on the interior.

Final Idea Exterior

This is the final model on SketchUp of the site, that I have designed, to create a library in the local area of Stapleford Abbotts and Bournebridge. The exterior is unique and draws interest from the people that may live in the area. Incorporating a large green space on the site can improve the environmental aspects in the local area, which will help the generations in the future.

Final Idea Interior

Final Idea

Adding shadows and people to show scale.

Final Idea Model

This is the site model that I have created, where I have transferred my ideas into a physical 3D model. This provides a better understanding of the site on a smaller scale.

The site is successful in showing the open space that visitors can enjoy, as well as the complexity of the roof structure. The model also shows the size of the building in comparison to trees on the site. I have also included the different levels of the patches of grass to show the size within the whole model.

Evaluation

The site that I have designed features the main library building, an outdoor green space, and a large parking lot for visitors. The local area benefits from a new modern building, which draws more people to the town of Stapleford Abbotts and Bournebridge. The site met the requirements of creating a space for studying, working, reading and socialising. The multi-functional spaces on the interior and the exterior provide different users with various activities they choose to do. With areas of importance in this generation (socialising and the internet), creating a social and communal space will encourage more younger people to visit this site and use the new library for study purposes. The whole site will also provide free Wi-Fi for all its visitors, so that people can make the most out of their time here. Also, on the interior, there is less colours as visitors will mainly come to the site to read or study, and having bright colours may distract them from their work. The atmosphere needs to be efficient in people progressing through work or study, as well as efficient in the form of energy. This is why the building will use LED lights, as they have a lower energy consumption, and the library has large windows to allow more light in to reduce the amount of energy being used.

The café inside the library allows customers to buy food and drink, which leads to them being able to stay for a longer time on the site. Placing many seats outside and under the overhangs creates a space where people can eat and socialise surrounded by nature and its natural and organic forms. I think that this forms a better environment for everyone. The shapes containing grass near these seats bring nature closer to people, and also provide another seating option made from wood, that is cut out into the raised grass platforms. Including different levels adds interest, as there are no stairs on the site. This allows for anyone to be able to access the library, even people using wheelchairs. Since the library is built on flat land, it is easier to walk throughout the entire site for people who might not be able to use stairs.

The small pavilion on the green space creates an area for people to relax in a quieter environment, compared to relaxing in the café seating area where there would be a higher number of people. The pavilion also reflects the theme of the site and is similar in design to the roof of the main library building. The colour white makes it be complementary and link to the library roof. I think that the sculpture near the pavilion adds a small touch to the overall theme of the site by presenting the idea of waves and curves, which are found in nature. I have placed benches throughout the green space, so that people can choose where to sit, for example under the trees or next to the pathway. I think that creating a large open space will form an area of flat land to hold events or different activities in the future. This will therefore encourage more people to visit the site, as they will be more aware of the number of different activities that are provided in the library.

Overall, I think that the site is very successful in creating a modern area for the local community with providing people with a library that is closer to their homes. The idea that the library presents is closely linked with nature because the focus of this site is to make people understand that nature is an important aspect of our world.

The library is able to create a good communal area to encourage younger people to use the library's facilities, thus increasing the number of people using libraries in this generation. This can create an effect of other libraries seeing more visitors coming to their library facility.

However, the only aspect that could be improved on the site is the parking lot. There is a high number of parking spaces, meaning that many people are able to come and visit the site with not having a problem with parking, but the suggestion of building a library in this town was for locals to have a library closer to their homes, instead of driving to another town to use one. This means that the minority of other people who live further away will use vehicles to access the site, giving the impression that many parking spaces will be empty. To improve this, there could be another building built on part of the parking lot to create a new area for activities.

Component 1: Part 2 Izabela Grzesiakowska

Design Brief and Specification Design Brief: Create a complementary extension building – a new building in addition to give more space & for other activities.

Your task is to create a space that is similar to the main building on the site. Develop a new building on the other side of the site, which must be similar to the style and theme of the main building, which is natural and organic. The new building will be an area for children, in order to have a larger space for them away from the main library building, which is more suitable for them. The new structure needs to be placed within the site, without replacing any of the previous buildings or spaces, so that it can retain the purpose and functions it already had.

Specification: • It must have safe equipment for children.

• It must have multi-use space for different purposes.

• It must be suited especially for younger children.

• It must have an educational area, as well as a play area.

• It must have a natural and organic theme.

• It must be accessible to every visitor.

• It should have colours that are bright and draw the children's attention.

• It should be large enough for there to still be space for the outdoor area on the site.

• It should be reflecting the design of the main building.

Location Research of the site and nearby area: -There is no library in the local area, so the people living in the town will need to travel a long distance to get to the nearest library.

-The site needs to focus on creating spaces for families with children, due to there being many houses in the surrounding area.

-People would prefer to travel by car, so a parking area is needed for this comfort.

-The new complimentary building should be using the same theme as the main building.

-The site is large enough, as it has a lot of area covered, that leads me to deciding to build another complimentary building in this area.

-The new building needs to be accessible to wheelchair users, so no stairs can be in this area.

-The new complimentary building will need to be large enough to include all the required equipment and furniture to function.

Stapleford Abbotts and Bournebridge area: -Restaurant and pub -Farm Equine Centre -Bus access / Public transport -Local food stores -Convenience stores -Farm

The new complimentary building will be built in some of the area used for the parking lot, as it is large. In my opinion, I think that this will be the best idea to go forward with, which is what I have decided based on the research of the site. Looking at the nearby area, the town is smaller than others and so less people would be using this site. This means that there will not need to be such a large parking lot when not all of it will be filled with people's vehicles when visiting. Also, the people from the closest houses to the site would most likely not use any vehicles to get to the site, making less parking spaces needed for the capacity of the visitors.

Researching the site in greater depth, I have understood where the closest buildings are and how this could affect the number of people visiting the library. There is a small convenience store very close to the site, and a restaurant and pub further down the road. The site has good transport links, as there are bus stops in front of the site (Tysea Hill bus stop) as well as near the restaurant (Royal Oak bus stop). There are many houses that are very close to the site, meaning that the people that live there have a short journey time to get to the library. There is also a lot of green space in this part of London, which adds a more aesthetic view of the building that is being surrounded by nature.

Buildings in the close proximity of the site: Convenience Store Restaurant and Pub Bus Stops / Public Transport

The Fengxi Primary School The outer area of the site is enclosed, and the middle is open, including overlapping circles which are elevated. In my opinion, the outer class building is quite plain, as it is grey and looks like a folded cuboid. It has been built with an alteration of scale and dimension to create a sense of uniqueness and enjoyment.

This building is a primary school in Huzhou, China. It was built in 2021 by Minax Architects.

With a total area of 23791 m2, it creates a large space for many children in the school.

By researching a primary school, I can focus my idea on the way a beneficial space is created for children to feel happy and creative. Even though the building exterior encloses the central area, the colourful structures help to create an open feeling within the school. The circular corridors, which are set vertically, help to extend the space for other activities, while also bringing about a change. The courtyards are also built differently with an alteration of scale and dimension, reflecting the other structure in the courtyard. Imagination is released, as the central structures are shaped differently from each perspective where you look from.

Concept Ideation

These two drawings present my ideas created from the research and inspiration from Fengxi Primary School. I have focused on the colours.

The features that I will focus on in this building are the various colours used throughout the primary school. Each colour is bright and colourful, which affects the children's mood in a positive way. In general, children like colourful objects, suggesting that this type of addition to the extension of the library is needed. I think that this is an important feature that needs to include relevant colours that go well with the theme of natural and organic, so that children can also learn about these types of forms that the library is built based on. These are the many colours that this library includes, and most of these are able to draw attention to them because they are different and bright. The colours that would probably work in the children's area are many shades of green, yellow, pink, red, orange and blue. Other colour that could be the main walls could be cream or tan coloured.

Concept Ideation

Concourse House, Children's Library

This is a children's library in Bronx, United States. It was built in 2018.

With only taking up 220 ft2, Michael K. Chen Architecture has designed this space to be a new component in Concourse House.

Concourse House is a shelter in Bronx that helps women with young children under the age of nine to transition out of homelessness. It works to eliminate homelessness by providing families with transitional housing, with a range of social services and programming. The new children's library provides educational resources to children who do not have access to their own books. It is situated under the vaulted ceiling, which also engages the children with bright lights and colours. There is a colourful carpet in the centre of the room to create a safer and softer area. The head architect of this firm, Michael Chen, believes that books have defined his childhood, meaning that this project is very important to him. He wanted to create a space for imagination and reflection.

The focus of this space is for children to have a place to go to read or spend time in a quite space. The feature that I will focus on will be the type of things that are included in the area. Looking at these aspects will give me a bigger understanding of how to layout the furniture in the new complimentary extension building that I will be designing.

The main idea taken from this is the interesting seating that is placed in various spaces within the room. They can be moved around and small enough for children to comfortably use, making the space able to be transformed into a different layout. Some of the colours are bright and some are pale, creating an eye-catching contrast between the two. I have also looked at the colours, as again they are an important aspect of creating these areas for children.

Concept Ideation

Concept Ideation

These are my ideas that have been based on this building.

These can be used in the new complimentary building on the site.

A table idea with poufs.

Baltimore Bend Playground

This is a public space in Almere, The Netherlands. It was built in 2022 and is contained within a 177m2 area. Designed by Arttenders and Studio Spass, this structure creates a space for children to play in.

This structure is a multi-functional art playground made from steel and in a bright blue colour. This makes the area draw attention of children, but also many adults due to the design idea. The structure is part of the urban renewal of Almere Buiten, as architects aim to make the local area more attractive and modern by adding new structures. Baltimore Bend Playground is a work of art incorporated in a playground with a playful design. The blue colour is a reflection of the water of the city.

An interesting route is created through the structure which allow for the exploration of different areas. The aim of the design is to stimulate children to use their creativity to play in this play environment. The open shape is unique compared to the buildings in the nearby area and the artwork also provides a clear view for the parent and child.

The feature that I have focused my attention on is the shape of this structure and how it creates a space for children to use. Including this on the library site will allow children to also be actively playing outside in the fresh air. The structure can also give ideas on how to use the theme of natural and organic to reflect the main library building.

These two drawings show ideas of changing the shape and colour of the structure to create more intricate and interesting designs.

Concept Ideation

Concept Ideation

Idea Development To create the new complementary building, I have tried out some ideas on SketchUp of what the structure could look like. The ideas are mainly from primary research, but also from secondary research, where I have looked at different aspects of creating spaces for children. The building would be quite open inside to create more space for children, whereas on the exterior, it would include structures that can form detailed structures to add interest, especially for children.

The idea that I am focusing on is to create a building that is similar in design to the main library building, so that the site as a whole is not very different on one side, compared with the other side. The new structure will show concepts of natural and organic to draw interest in children.

Final Idea Exterior

This is the final idea of the new complementary building that will be placed on the site. I have included many curves and waves to bring forward the theme of the structure. The roof has been created from circles at various levels and raised to different heights. Most of the shapes have grass, to create a green roof, promoting a healthy development of the environment. The roof areas with no grass include solar panels to produce more energy to supply the site.

The site is in place of part of the parking lot, meaning that there is less parking space available, but more building space is now provided for use by the public. The new building is designed for young children, where they will use books and have small events hosted to teach them to read.

Final Idea Interior

Final Idea

Evaluation

The complementary children's building is successful, as it provides a larger amount of space for them to use when visiting the site with their families. The aim is to encourage young children to learn to read, as reading is important and a fun activity. The library is also able to hold events for these children to further create an enjoyable atmosphere to get them to learn through play and to bring more people to this space. The area on the interior of the new building is open, as children tend to run inside, but is also built on the other side of the site to be away from the main building to provide quiet workspaces for the adults in the main library building. This new building will be a louder space in general, as it is designed for children. It also does not have stairs, so that any visitor can access the building, as well as the whole site.

Creating a green roof improves the area by providing more space where nature can thrive and clean the polluted air within the city. This green roof also helps to link the theme of natural and organic together with nature, since the shapes used for the roof transfer that concept across and contain grass that goes well with the design. I have also placed solar panels on the roof to allow the site to have an alternative form of renewable energy to power the LED lights that will be used in both of the buildings. Architecture is shifting to be eco-friendly, so solar panels are a great option to reduce electricity costs for the building, but also produce more energy that is not harmful for the environment. The idea that large windows are used to allow more light into the building is useful in reducing the lighting costs as well.

The building includes a very interesting dome at the front, which covers over the front window and is very large to let more light inside. This window is also connected to the bent pieces over the roof, which creates a new form that has not been used yet within the site. The pieces are white in colour to also match the roof of the main library building, while also being curved to create an intriguing form that is simpler in comparison to the design of the other roof. The pieces that reach the ground provide a small play area for children, as the shapes that go well with the theme have been cut out and now create a space outside to play.

Children can go through the shapes in the pieces, which is an idea taken from my secondary research for this building.

The interior of the building includes an area with many colourful poufs to let children sit on and can be moved to sit around a big colourful rug that is in front of the large square window. This is where activities can take place, but also where children can play and look at the nature outside of the building. There are drawings of nature related things on the walls of the library to let the children's imagination develop, but also is appealing to this site by showing the theme of natural and organic. The tables with chairs in the back part of the building are smaller than those in the main building and will be painted in a large variety of colours to be more suited for younger children.

Overall, I think that the new complementary building, that is designed for children, is very successful as it provides more space for young ones to also utilise the library space effectively and in their own area. Including many colours throughout the space adds interest and draws the children's attention to this spot, where this idea is also taken from secondary research. The shelving will be filled with many colourful children's books where anyone is able to pick one up and read at a table, on a pouf or sitting on the floor with the child. This creates a multi-functional space, as the entire building can be used as a reading space, teaching space, or even a play area when there is a different event being held. The whole site is now complementary and reflect the theme well, while serving the purpose of creating this space as a library and communal space.