STOOP, A -

“I think it is possible for ordinary people to choose to be extraordinary” -Elon Musk

the

liminal liminal hub An interactive centre for space science and technology in pretoria TUT DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE PROJECT BY ANNA ALETTA STOOP DECEMBER 2021

hello “hello, world” - Robonaut2 , 2012

Fig. 1_ Milkyway (Bureau, 2020.)

Fig. 2_ Liminality diagram (Author, 2021.)

the hub: Theliminal liminalhub: An interactive centre for space sience and technology in pretoria

declaration: declaration: DEPARTMENT of ARCHITECTURE DECLARATION ON PLAGIARISM

The Department of Architecture emphasises integrity and ethical behaviour with regard to the preparation of all assignments. Although the lecturer/ study leader/ supervisor/ mentor will provide you with information regarding reference techniques and ways to avoid plagiarism, you also have a responsibility to fulfil in this regard. Should you at any time feel unsure about the requirements, you must consult the lecturer/ study leader/ supervisor/ mentor concerned before submitting an assignment. You are guilty of plagiarism when you extract information from a book, article, web page, or from any other source of information without acknowledging the source and pretend that it is your own work. This doesn’t only apply to cases where you quote verbatim, but also when you present someone else’s work in a somewhat amended (paraphrased) format, or when you use someone else’s arguments or ideas without acknowledgement. You are also guilty of plagiarism if you copy and paste information directly from an electronic source (e.g., a web site, e-mail message, electronic journal article, or CD ROM), even if you acknowledge the source. You are not allowed to submit another student’s previous work as your own. You are furthermore not allowed to let anyone copy or use your work with the intention of presenting it as his/her own. Any student, who produce work that is alleged to be plagiarised, will be referred to the Academic Affairs Disciplinary Committee for a ruling. Plagiarism is considered a serious violation of the University’s regulations and may lead to your suspension from the University. In accordance with Regulation 4.1.11.1(j) of Chapter 4 (Examination Rules and Regulations), and Regulations 15.1.16 and 15.1.17 of Chapter 15 (Student Discipline) of Part 1 of the 2021 Prospectus, I, Anna Aletta Stoop Student number: 214619539 Declare the following: 1. I understand what plagiarism entails and I am aware of the University’s policy in this regard. 2. I declare that this assignment is my own, original work. Where someone else’s work was used, it was acknowledged, and reference was made according to departmental requirements. 3. I did not copy and paste any information directly from an electronic source (e.g., a web page, electronic journal article or CD ROM) into this document. 4. I did not make use of another student’s previous work and submitted it as my own. 5. I did not allow and will not allow anyone to copy my work with the intention of presenting it as his/her own work. I further declare that this research proposal is substantially my own work. Where reference is made to the works of others, the extent to which that work has been used is indicated and fully acknowledged in the text and list of references.

Nov 2021

acknowledgement: acknowledgement: Dear Mom and Dad, thank you for all the opportunities and sacrifices you made for me to be where I am today. I love you. My siblings, JanHarm, Esta, and Burgert, you are each one of a kind, and I am grateful to be your sister. Thank you for all the visits, motivational talks, and the love you gave so selflessly. To Daniel, you are a remarkable human being. Thank you for your love and inspiration. Aunt Michelle, thank you for opening your heart and home to me. Uncle David, thank you for sparking my long-forgotten dream. Kyle and Gisela, there are no words. Thank you for lifting me up to complete this mini dissertation. I believe God sent you to help and teach me to understand the balance between life and architecture. Aunt Anita, a special thanks for giving me a smile about my work and the editing. Marinda, Pepper and Maggie, thank you for the inspiration to travel and all the motivational visits during this year, one day I will too. My friends, Morné and Kyle, we have come a long way, and I am thankful for your friendship throughout the years. Megan, thank you for all your support and comfort and for all the spellchecks. Jaco, I couldn’t ask for a better working buddy. Thank you all for always being a phone call away. To my class, thank you for sculpting me into the person I am today. I am proud to be a part of such a strong and fearless group. And a special shoutout to the people who only had the best intentions at heart: - Francine van Tonder - Cornel van der Westhuizen - Prof. Amira Osman - Prof. Jacques Laubscher Lastly, thank you to the National Research Foundation for providing the necessary funding for me to create and inspire future generations.

Fig. 3_ Didacta building connecting to Space (Author, 2021.)

Abstract: Abstract: Satellites in Earth’s orbit monitor crucial environmental information. This dissertation explores the liminal or ‘in-between’ state between space and Earth. The liminal state is applied to the proposed space science and technology hub in the form of a museum as a redesign of the historical Museum of Science in the Didacta Building in Pretoria in South Africa. The museum building itself becomes the liminal threshold, a connection towards Space from Earth. A didactic environment is created with interactive architecture, fostering public interest and development in space science and technology. The existing Didacta building will be retrofitted with a space science research laboratory for the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA) that will receive live data digitally. The Didacta building is a sophisticated building of Pretoria, therefor a series of case studies about adaptive reuse will be investigated to understand which methods will most enhance the characteristics and memories of the science museum. Keywords: Liminal, Didactic, Space, Museum, Pretoria

table of table of contents contents

01 02 03 04

Introduction to project

p. 16

space

p. 32

programme

p. 66

The didacta

p. 82

05 06 07 08

adaptive reuse analysis

p. 102

precedents

p. 118

proposed design

p. 126

architecture

p. 138

conclusion references list of figures

p. 165 p. 168 p. 174

01 CONTENTs: Initiation

p. 19

Introduction

p. 20

Research Methodology

p. 22

Delimitations of Study

p. 25

Problem Statement

p. 25

Concept

p. 27

Introduction Introduction totoproject project 17

Fig. 4_Explore (Author, 2021.)

1.1 initiation Over millennia, man has sailed across seas, discovered new lands, travelled through the skies, and explored the galaxy (Granath, 2017). The desire to understand the unknown pushed boundaries and challenged scientific and technical limits (Wiles, 2013). This exploration led to the investigation of the ‘in-between’ or ‘crossingover’ state. The liminal state is an important aspect that will be explored and documented throughout this dissertation.

“It has often proved true that the dream of yesterday is the hope of today and the reality of tomorrow” - Robert GoDDarD, 1899 19

Fig. 5_ Hartebeesthoek Array of Antennas (Author, 2021.)

1.2. introduction The objective of space science and technology is to promote research and exploration of space worldwide. With the continuous development and integration of technology and the rapid growth of scientific knowledge, living conditions in society are improved every day (SANSA, 2020). Earth observation through satellite technology is an important aspect of the space industry (Ovienmhada, 2020). Observation is achieved through satellites orbiting the globe that provide a quantitative understanding of the natural world and how to act sustainably (Ovienmhada, 2020). Satellite-data usage is widespread in state-owned companies and governments (Wild, 2020). The South African government and companies purchase global satellite data; therefore, the data is not

specific to that country’s interests (Wild, 2020). . Africa is both a user

of data and a data collector from the Earth observation satellites. The South African ambassador to the United Nations Jerry Matjila declared that “Africa’s demand for space products and services is among the world’s highest as the continent’s economy becomes increasingly dependent on space” (Devermont & Oniosun, 2020). South African President Cyril Ramaphosa introduced the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium (SIDS) to advise regarding ways to cultivate South Africa’s economy through sustainable infrastructural development. The president invited many government institutions to participate in the SIDS on 23 July 2020 (SANSA, 2020). SANSA proposed the Space Infrastructure Hub (SIH), and it was classified as a top-five project under the Digital Infrastructure category (SANSA, 2020). The CEO of SANSA, Dr Valanathan Munsami (Wild, 2020) commented on the impetus created by treasury funding:

“If we hadn’t gotten the [space] infrastructure hub funding and just had to go along with the [National] Treasury allocation, it would have taken us decades to look at strengthening the space value chain we’re considering now”. The Museum of Science and Technology in the Didacta Building is a prominent landmark in Nana Sita Street in the Pretoria CBD. The museum closed its doors in 2007, after 47 years of science, technology, and space travel exhibitions accessible to the public (SAASTA, n.d.). This historic building is known for the unique ‘hands-on’ museum in South Africa but was recently adapted for use as administrative offices by the NRF|SAASTA. The study will focus on the developing accessibility of space science and technology to the public through reviving the unique hands-on experience at the Didacta Building through interactive architecture.

1.3. Research methodology The author’s worldview is based on pragmatism; the pragmatic paradigm focuses on ‘what works’ with an absolute and objective view. She grew up on a farm near a small town called Ermelo in Mpumalanga Province. Helping on the farm from a young age formed her practical and logical thinking in an ever-changing environment. Identifying the pragmatism aspect of the author’s thinking, she evolved to have a positivism viewpoint for research, withdrawing herself from the study and basing the study on objective and external facts. Both quantitative and qualitative research are important to gain various insights into knowledge. However, with the author’s practical and logical thinking, this research will be done more quantitatively. Practical and logical dictates of her thinking process steer the author to be a system designer. The new proposed design will consider the problem when commencing the design process and consider the surrounding environment. The processes will then reinforce each other to drive change. This research will investigate case studies that focus on interactive architecture that promotes space science. Literature, photographs, and diagrams will be used to understand the transitions/liminality throughout the project. Experiments will be conducted to understand and experiment with transitions and how it influences the feeling of the space. To understand the site and its context, site analysis, urban analysis, and photographs will be used to convey the understanding.

1.4. Delimitation of study The mini dissertation does not aim to solve the aspects of new technology, space science, and sustainability. However, this study will rejuvenate an opportunity to experience space science technology for southern Africans. The design will primarily focus on the public interest in space science and technology through interactive architecture.

1.5. Problem statement In South Africa, there is a need to make space science and technology more accessible. SANSA and SAASTA require a facility where technology and science can be studied, developed, and commercialised. In addition to this, there is a need to provide access to the public to a place where interactive architecture supports the promotion of space science and technology.

nana sita st

horizon

1.6. concept 1.6.1. liminal Liminal is obtained from the Latin word ‘limen’, which means ‘being on a threshold’. The concept of liminality can be used in contexts, from cultural and social to spatial. Liminality is an ‘in-between’ condition or intermediate state (Christie, 2020). This ‘in-between’ state can be experienced on a micro and macro plane, serving similar functions with

threshold

old vs new

diverse forms.

Fig. 6_ Liminality diagram (Author, 2021.)

1.6.2. horizon Horizon is the line where Earth and sky seem to meet (MerriamWebster Dictionary, n.d.). The atmosphere is an invisible ocean of layers of gas covering Earth (Boudreau, et al., 2011). The layers stretch from the ground towards the sky and are the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere. Beyond this is outer space. The boundaries of the layers are not defined lines and vary depending on the season and latitude (Boudreau, et al., 2011). The horizon can be translated to the boundary between space and Earth, which ultimately responds to the proposed design, being liminal between space and Earth.

Fig. 7_ Horizon (Author, 2021.)

1.6.3. nana sita street The Pretoria City Council and the Department of Transport and Provincial Administration sought approval in 1956 from the Telford Commission to originate a ring road scheme. The development of the Pretoria Ring Road Scheme began in 1967 and was part of the 1960 Traffic Plan. The system was a fragment of a more extensive national and regional transportation network, encompassing four freeway routes encircling the city (Kruger, 2019, p. 42). Only parts of the ring road and the Goedehoop Urban Renewal Scheme was implemented but at the expense of pedestrian movement, emphasising vehicular traffic that left lengthy scars in the City of Pretoria (Kruger, 2019, p. 52). Nana Sita Street is a part of the Pretoria Ring Road Scheme and is a strip that cuts the city in half, resulting in limiting pedestrians from traversing from one side to the other.

Fig. 8_Illustration of Pretoria and Nana Sita Street (Author, 2021.)

1.6.4. old vs new Both new and old architecture defines city skylines and cherishes lasting memories of a place. Reviving the old Museum of Science in the Didacta Building, and adding an interactive public centre, creates a dividing line between the existing structure and the new addition.

Fig. 9_ The Didacta building (Author, 2021.)

1.6.5. threshold A threshold is defined as “the plank, stone, or piece of timber that lies under a door or the place or point of entering or beginning” (MerriamWebster Dictionary, n.d.). The primary characteristics of threshold spaces (liminal entity) are in-between what the threshold separates or connects. The threshold state is full of possibilities and where various parts of a spectrum find their place (Murali, 2020). In the architecture fabric, spaces are defined by diverse physical elements, but the essentials of the space are not limited and can be defined by non-physical components. The understanding of thresholds as momentary separators and connectors adds value to movement and use (Christie, 2020).

Fig. 10_ Threshold (Author, 2021.)

02 CONTENTS:

The Desideratum for Space

p. 34

Architecture of Space

p. 36

Galaxies and Quasars

p. 39

Celestrial Bodies

p. 40

Space Initiation

p. 45

The Importance of Satellite Technology

p. 49

for Africa 32

space space 33

2.1. The Desideratum for space Earthlings have always stared at the heavens, longing to understand the matters of the night sky (Logsdon, 2021). Dreams of space were a source of inspiration for humanity over the last ages (Dator, 2012, p. 5). Dream-inspired people made space travel programmes and discovery a reality. Religious, philosophical, artistic, and ethical perspectives are not mere add-ons to space activities and are essential parts of the perception and discovery of space (Dator, 2012, p. 5). No one had travelled to outer space until 1957 (Dator, 2012, p. 12). However, space exploration captured the minds of people long before advancements made it real, including the minds of aircraft pilots, scientists, writers, and artists (Logsdon, 2021). The poets and writers did not write not from their own direct experience, but from imagination, about

astronauts and cosmonauts. Technology and science are products of

Fig. 11_ Ancient astronomy (Boșcu, 2017)

the dreams and desires of humanity, enabling humans to follow their curiosity to explore the beyond (Dator, 2012, p. 5). During the Apollo 15 mission in 1971, when David Scott and James Irwin were on the moon, Al Worden orbited the moon in complete solitude. He said the overwhelming experience of being alone in the endless universe gave him a profound feeling of renewal (Dator, 2012, p. 12). A combination of all beliefs, dreams, technology, science, and resources gathered by the will and labour of humanity is needed to maintain and attain space endeavours (Dator, 2012, p. 5). The Outer Space Treaty, 1967 mandates that:

[t]he exploration and use of outer space should be carried on for the benefit of all people.

2.2. Architecture of space From the perspective of humans on Earth, outer space is a region of space about 100 kilometres above the planet where there is no air to breathe or light that scatters. Outer space is where blue gives away to an endless black vacuum. The black colour of the vacuum is due to the scarcity of oxygen molecules, and sound cannot travel because of the great distance between molecules (Howell, 2017). The size of space is still unknown, but the distance in space is measured in light years. This measurement represents the distance light takes to travel in a year (9.3 trillion kilometres) (Howell, 2017). Space is not empty. Dust and gas float around in the ‘emptier’ areas of the universe, and the crowded regions host galaxies, planets, and stars (Howell, 2017). The universe’s uniform composition throughout is seen as homogeneous (Max Planck Research, 2012, p. 19). These galaxy clusters trace the architecture of space, and gravity binds these clusters with invisible chains. The Milky Way is part of the Local Group cluster. This cluster has 40 members and resembles a suburb (Max Planck Research, 2012, p. 19).

Fig. 12_ Photograph of Black hole (Shiokawa, 2019.)

2.3. Galaxies and quasars Galaxies are among the largest cosmic structures that are collections of stars (Redd, 2017). Galaxies have several form types, ranging from irregular to spiral to elliptical. The Milky Way is considered to have a ‘barred spiral’ shape (Howell, 2017). The form of galaxies is never fixed and can change as stars age within them or if the galaxies move closer to other objects (Howell, 2017). Within the very heart of the Milky Way Galaxy is a colossal black hole that is a billion times larger than the Sun. Most galaxies are considered to have a black hole embedded at the centre (Redd, 2017). When a black hole is particularly active, a steady supply of material falls into it and it produces vast amounts of radiation. This type of galactic body is called a quasar (Howell, 2017). The first-ever image of a black hole was captured in 2019 by the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) collaboration (Gohd, 2021). This imagery revealed a new perspective of the celestial object and how magnetic fields behave when close to black holes and quasars (Gohd, 2021).

2.4. celestial bodies Stars are classified as immense balls of burning gas that produce their own radiation. The various stars range from burning red supergiants to cooling white dwarfs (Howell, 2017). Stars can burn out due to the lack of gas or explode. These explosions spread elements such as iron throughout the universe. From a star explosion, incredibly dense neutron stars can be born. If a neutron star sends out pulses of radiation, it is called a pulsar star (Howell, 2017). The definition of planets came under study in 2006, during the debate whether Pluto can be considered a planet (Howell, 2017). The IAU ruled that a planet is described as a celestial body that orbits the Sun. Pluto and other similar celestial bodies were thereafter considered as ‘dwarf planets’. However, not everyone agrees with this decision (Howell, 2017). In 2015, after the New Horizons spacecraft flew past Pluto, Alan Stern re-opened the debate arguing that the diversity and characteristics of the terrain captured by New Horizons might lead to Pluto being a planet again (Howell, 2017). The order of the planets from the Sun is Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. The planets Jupiter to Neptune all have ring systems, and Mercury and Venus are the only planets with no moons (Owen, 2020). The massive size of a planet allows it to have a nearly round shape. The orbit of a planet is cleared of debris (Howell, 2017). Planets outside the planetary system are called ‘extrasolar planets’; this term has not yet been turned down by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). Astronomers defined the meaning of these objects that behave like planets to study and understand them (Howell, 2017). The first of these planets was discovered in 1992, and since then thousands of extrasolar planets have been verified. The planets in distant solar systems are referred to as ‘protoplanets’ because they have not yet developed the maturity of the planets found in the planetary system (Howell, 2017).

Fig. 13_ Planets (Author, 2021.)

At the centre of the planetary system is the Sun, which influences the motion of all other celestial bodies through its own gravitational force (Owen, 2020). The Sun’s mass contributes to more than 99% of the mass of the solar system. Asteroids are space rocks that are too small to be dwarf planets. Their size leads to the conclusion that they are fragments from when the solar system was formed (Howell, 2017). A concentrated asteroid belt is between the planets Mars and Jupiter. Some asteroids follow behind or ahead of planets. The asteroids can cross in a planet’s path. Therefore, NASA and many other organisations have programmes that monitor the sky for potentially dangerous objects in the sky (Howell, 2017). Comets are believed to originate from icy bodies in the Oort cloud. Ancients often connected comets to destruction or an immense change on Earth. However, with the discovery of Halley’s Comet, it was found that comets are ordinary solar bodies (Howell, 2017). Comets are periodic because when comets reach the Sun, the heat causes the ice to melt, causing water and steam to stream away from the comet (Howell, 2017).

Fig. 14_ Launch (Etherington, 2019.)

2.5. Space initiation

In October 1957, the Soviet Union took the world by surprise with the launch of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik. Within a matter of months, United States President Dwight D. Eisenhower initiated the development of engineering and scientific expertise through National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), a civilian space exploration agency (Markovich, et al., 2021). In May of 1961, the first human entered space, Yuri Gagarin of the Soviet Union. In 1962, United States President John F. Kennedy stressed the urgency for the United States to devote funding and effort to a lunar landing:

“For the eyes of the world now look into space, to the moon and to the planets beyond, and we have vowed that we shall not see it governed by a hostile flag of conquest, but by a banner of freedom and peace” – John F. Kennedy, 1962 NASA accomplished six successful lunar missions but now focuses on Earth. Robotic programmes such as the Voyager and Viking have resumed exploring the solar system (Markovich, et al., 2021). NASA turned its focus to sending astronauts into low Earth orbit (LEO). This focus led to the development of Skylab in 1973, which was launched by the United States space station using the space shuttle. The space shuttle programme was operational for 30 years (1981 to 2011) and helped construct the International Space Station (ISS), an

orbiting laboratory that humans have constantly occupied since 2000 (Markovich, et al., 2021). Multiple crewless missions were conducted under the supervision of NASA, and the most recent mission occurred in February 2021. The agency landed the Perseverance rover on Mars in search of signs of life (Markovich, et al., 2021). United States presidents had various agendas regarding space missions. George W. Bush’s administration pushed to return to the moon and for a trip to Mars. However, Barack Obama chose an asteroid mission. The Obama administration planned a crewed mission to orbit Mars by 2030. Donald J. Trump directed the Department of Defense to create a branch under the military’s air force to focus on threats from space (Markovich, et al., 2021). Activists for space commercialisation suggest that private firms such as Orbital Sciences and SpaceX, both contracted to ferry ISS cargo, can provide access to LEO at lower costs (Markovich, et al., 2021). NASA could then solely focus on missions that expand scientific and exploration frontiers. SpaceX transported two NASA astronauts to the ISS in May 2020, becoming the first private company to do so. Trump acknowledged this launch, saying that the trip “makes clear the commercial space industry is the future”. In the same month, NASA certified SpaceX to begin routine missions, sending three Americans and one Japanese astronaut to the ISS (Markovich, et al., 2021). Entrepreneurs are investing in the commercial future of space that is beyond NASA contracts (Markovich, et al., 2021). The Outer Space Treaty (1967) mandates:

The exploration and use of outer space should be carried on for the benefit of all people.

Fig. 15_ Collage of space benefits (Author, 2021.)

2.6. the Importance of Satellite technology for Africa Earth observation through satellite technology is an important aspect of the space industry, quantitatively supporting the understanding of the natural world and how to act sustainably (Ovienmhada, 2020). The observations from space provide a matchless vantage point for collecting information. The first satellites during the 1950s carried cameras into orbit, and the cameras have since evolved in both complexity and variety (Climate Central, 2009). Ground, air, and seabased observation methods contribute significantly to the monitoring of the planet but provide only a limited view. The surface-based data present the conditions only at one location. By contrast, the whole picture can be analysed from space (Climate Central, 2009). South Africa began participating in the space industry in 1932 before the global space race in the 1950s. The Magnetic Observatory was established by Prof. A. Ogg. The observatory joined the international network of observatories to form part of the Polar Year for the International Commission (SANSA, 2018). SANSA was established in 2010 to bring South Africa’s space activities together. Since then, SANSA has achieved memorable successes in the country’s sustainable development and space industry. The new Space Infrastructure Hub (SIH) of SANSA for the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium (SIDS) secured R4.47 billion in funding in 2020 from the South African government to stimulate economic growth through infrastructure development (Wild, 2020). The infrastructure will support the development of satellites for Earth observation and several space missions and expand the data segment system across southern Africa (Wild, 2020).

Coordinator of the Global Monitoring for Environment Security (GMES) and Space Science Expert at the African Union Commission Dr Tidiane Ouattara says:

“The African continent’s progression in space is largely not known to the outside experts of the industry” (Hill, 2020).

The commission emphasises the importance of sharing information on matters of space, as well as Africa’s integration, cooperation, and development (Hill, 2020).

2.6.1. Africa’s history of satellite technology South African engineer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Media Lab’s Space Enabled Research Group Dr Minoo Rathnasabapathy acknowledges that Africa has economic challenges. However, in her experience, traditional views of Africa are ignorant and outdated of its achievements and rich history in space. Dr Rathnasabapathy points to the growth of the space sector (Hill, 2020):

Space is not new to the African continent … what is new is the opportunities to grow the sector from within the continent; unique opportunities for cooperation on an international, regional and national scale; the ability to reach the general public and emphasise the role space plays in their everyday lives; and the need to bridge the technical divide.

Since 1999, the 11 African countries that have successfully launched three multilateral and 38 unilateral satellites into orbit. The countries are Egypt, Angola, Algeria, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Sudan, Rwanda, Morocco, and South Africa (Devermont & Oniosun, 2020). It is estimated that by 2024, approximately 19 African countries will have launched at least one satellite into space, and the total satellites successfully launched by African countries will rise to over 90 (Devermont & Oniosun, 2020). The United States is engaging minimally in developing the continent’s satellite technology and programmes and has launched only 18% of Africa’s satellites. Russia and China are leading the African space industry (Devermont & Oniosun, 2020). The South African ambassador to the United Nations Jerry Matjila says:

“Africa’s demand for space products and services is among the world’s highest as the continent’s economy becomes increasingly dependent on space” (Devermont

Oniosun,

2020).

Satellites orbiting the globe provide accurate weather reports, connect billions of people who are currently without access to global information, and ensure security and transparency by monitoring and analysing the behavioural trends of Earth (World Economic Forum, 2020, p. 2).

2.6.2. Benefits of saterllite technology The African continent actively participates in various important space science and technology initiatives. The continent experienced noteworthy developmental challenges, and space technology has a significant positive impact on these challenges by providing Earth observation and satellite communication (Purity, 2021). Satellites can

track land, water, construction, and vegetation fluctuations. This data alters economies and could result in more than $2 billion a year in benefits for the African continent alone (Oni, March 2021). Digital Earth Africa is a project launched in 2019 to make global satellite imagery more accessible and commercially available. Delivering the ready-to-use data to governments and businesses will assist with sustainability (SIDS). The programme will boost Africa’s earth observation industry by $500 million by 2024, and in the agricultural productivity, $900 million can be annually realised. The benefits include improved crop yields, water saving, insurance benefits, and reduced pesticide use (Oni, March 2021).

2.6.3. Satellite technology case studies of sustainable development in africa Products and applications of satellite technology can achieve some of the sustainable development goals regarding food security, preventing humanitarian crises’, reducing the risk of disasters, monitoring natural resources, reducing poverty, and assisting the health and telecommunication sectors (Economic and Social Council, 2020)

Fig. 16_ African continent illustrating the location case studies (Author, 2021.)

Fig. 16_ Africa

2.6.3.1. Satellite Imagery for the Locust Invasion Crisis in Eastern Africa Locust swarms invaded northern and eastern African regions, threatening food security across Uganda, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and eleven countries in North Africa. According to a collaborative assessment report by the Ethiopian government and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the outbreak in Ethiopia alone caused a startling 356,286 metric tonnes of cereal loss, along with the destruction of 197,000 ha of cropland and 1,35 million ha of pasturelands. As a result, one million Ethiopians needed food assistance (Purity, 2021). The locust outbreak was driven by climate change; unusual weather conditions caused strong cyclones and heavy rains in the Arabian Peninsula. This weather triggered more than normal vegetation, resulting in ideal conditions for locusts to thrive. Gathering information on locust movement and behaviour supported the creation of locust risk maps that provide early advanced warnings and make a difference (Purity, 2021). Optimal conditions and known locations for locust surges are identified for targeted action (Purity, 2021). The European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) provides the International Conference on Advanced Process Control (ICAPC) with geospatial data on the vegetation indices and humidity values to monitor the ground. The MetOp Meteorological satellite collects the soil moisture data. The satellite monitors the global atmosphere, continents, and oceans, receiving data every two hours. ICAPC used data from Sentinel-3, the low earth orbit satellite that delivers vegetation indices data. By analysing and comparing these values, the prime areas of breeding locusts were identified, and control measures were deployed (Purity, 2021).

2.6.3.2. Satellite Broadband to enable global connectivity and remote learning Satellite services for internet connectivity are an ongoing process, and internet providers have intensified service provision within the last year (Purity, 2021). Several new services were launched in sub-Saharan Africa and are extending satellite-enabled broadband from the urban areas into remote regions where people are without connectivity (Muchena, December 2019). Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, various stakeholders collaborated to ensure continuity of learning by launching an e-learning platform while delivering information and communication technology equipment across various areas in Kenya: Makueni, Uasin Gishu, Kilifi, and Kajiado. In terms of connectivity, iMlango uses the Avanti satellite broadband network to enable pupils to access internet learning platforms (Purity, 2021). Khula Education in South Africa provides internet connectivity to remote area schools of the uMzinyathi district. The still-active satellite broadband is sponsored by the satellite provider Morclick in partnership with Yahclick and was introduced during the COVID-19 lockdown period. The broadband provider charges 49 USD per school since lockdown was lifted (Purity, 2021).

Fig. 17_ Earth circled by satellites (Author, 2021.)

Fig. 18_ Satellite image indicating animal positions (Author, 2021.)

2.6.3.3. Wildlife Tracking via Satellite Africa uses satellite data to track specific wildlife for the last five years. In 2020, advanced satellite Internet of Things (IoT) technology was developed to monitor and track animals. In October 2020, the Africa Wildlife Tracking (AWT) reportedly used Orbcomm satellite modems to deliver near-real-time GPS monitoring and tracking of elephants (Purity, 2021). The satellite conducts a large-scale survey in a short period, repeating the surveys in less than 24hrs. The result is highresolution satellite images used to detect and count wildlife (Space in Africa, 2021).

2.6.3.4. Space Weather The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) awarded 5000 USD to the Universities of Eldoret, Kimathi, Dedan, and Taita Taveta to research space weather. This funding will be vital for monitoring and developing a proactive approach to combating concerns regarding geometric storms (Purity, 2021). SANSA has begun constructing a regional space weather centre in Hermanus near Cape Town. When operational, the 24/7 full-service centre will monitor the space weather of the country (Space in Africa, 2021). In 2020, a network of antennas was developed to deliver real-time data on solar storm distortion in the ionosphere, the charged outer layer of the Earth’s atmosphere. The antenna sensors will provide the necessary insight into the destructive storms that release charged particles from the Sun onto satellite and radio communications (Purity, 2021). As reported by Scientific American, Zambia constructed its first such sensor in March 2020, and the sensor forms part of the network of eight multi-frequency receivers installed across the continent. Another four active operating sensors are in South Africa. With this new network, Africa will access for the first time 24/7 local weather satellite data on how the Sun’s behaviour influences the ionosphere (Purity, 2021).

2.6.3.5. Geospatial Data used for the management of COVID 19 in Sierra Leone Sierra Leone’s National COVID-19 Emergency Operations Centre partnered with a coalition of international organisations to deliver important geospatial datasets and analyses to support the country’s decisions. The granular geospatial data is an estimate of the demographics within any given hectare area in the entire country. The data sheds light on various risk factors of COVID-19 infections and socio-economic vulnerability, identifying risk areas that lack resources and need support to handle health and economic crises (Purity, 2021). The Disaster Response Program deployed a COVID-19 hub, including technical assistance. Therefore the program will assist the government in sharing and updating data on active COVID-19 cases on dashboards, risk maps, and applications that will track the recovery of the nation (Purity, 2021).

Fig. 19_ Geospatial data (Chervov, 2019)

Fig. 20_ The International Space Station (ISS) (NASA, 2010)

2.6.3.6. Forest Fires tracking, using Satellite imagery in Algeria Algeria is using the Alg-Sat 1B to understand the impact of forest fires in the country. The satellite was launched in 2016 for disaster and agriculture monitoring purposes. The analysis of a forest fire recorded 144 559 ha destroyed in Wilaya of Jijel and only 27.75 ha of Mila. Another forest fire recorded in Tassadane Haddada during the same month was assessed to have destroyed 434.16 ha. Arab News (Purity, 2021) states that the country’s forestry agency documented 1 216 fires between 1 June and 1 August. Consequently, the prime minister set up a unit to control and prevent forest fires (Purity, 2021).

2.6.3.7. GMES and Africa Space Programs Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) in Africa worked with Africa’s Centre for Space, Science, and Technology Education (CSSTE) to create multi-scale flood monitoring and assessment services for West Africa (MiFMASS). The monitoring consists of flood monitoring and a forecasting system for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). GMES in Africa developed a platform that offers ocean forecasts in Ghana. The University of Ghana’s Regional Marine Centre collaborated with the platform and now provides operational services, including forecasting and monitoring oceanographic variables, potential fishing zone charts, coastal vulnerability indices, and mapping of ecosystems and habitats (Purity, 2021).

03 Transition

CONTENTS: table of CONTENTS:

p. 68

The Boundary

p. 71

The Museum

p. 72

Accomodation list

p. 78

programme programme 67

This study was initiated to understand the full complexity of the programme on thresholds and museums, focusing specifically on the contemporary museum as an instrument for experiencing liminality.

3.1. transition The boundary defined by the building’s enclosure has a physical, clear, and distinct effect on people observing it when passing through the openings of the building. The importance of architecture stretches far beyond the primary role of sheltering and social representation. Architecture is part of a totality that brings people, space, and behaviour together. The idea behind this approach is to rethink form and function through the two most fundamental concepts of understanding place and space, namely boundary and threshold. The boundary defines the relationship between people and space through physical and psychological concepts. Thresholds symbolise the transition from one state to another (Sfinteş, 2012). By transitioning these concepts to a larger scale, the building itself becomes a threshold, a built structure that breaks away from everyday life and becomes a parallel reality. The best programme approach to emphasise the interaction between space and people is a contemporary museum. The building often transforms into a landmark of collective identity, purpose, and history. Architectural design choices within the programme have deeper connotations, shifting the focus from just exhibiting to permitting interpretation. The museum building must submit to the personal transformation that happens through accumulating knowledge, in a way similar to Gennep’s theory of passage (Sfinteş, 2012). Three distinct phases can characterise rite of passage: separation (leaving behind the familiar), transition (period of learning,

growth, and testing), and return (reintegration and incorporation) (Open Sky Wilderness, n.d.). The building introduces visitors to a parallel reality where space and time have more dimensions and meanings than reality (Sfinteş, 2012). The museum itself becomes the transitional space.

Fig. 21_ The threshold between realities (Author, 2021.)

3.2. the boundary A built boundary’s main spatial characteristic is the property of binding and setting apart simultaneously; the boundary belongs to both sides but can be used independently . Thresholds link and mark the passage of one to another. The boundary can take on many forms: abstract or physical, spatial or temporal, among others. At the abstract level, the boundary expresses a quality of juxtapositioning opposites (real or virtual; known or unknown; permitted or prohibited) (Sfinteş, 2012, p. 4). The boundary concept in architecture marks the opening that defines the inside and outside of the relationship. Vlad Gaivoronschi identified three types of boundaries: multiple (the threshold becomes spatial, requiring more time for the crossover), thin (transparent) and thick (opaque, massive). These types have various effects on people, being perceived as continuous to smooth or dramatic (Sfinteş, 2012, p. 3).

3.3. the museum The earliest museums were open to only a narrow segment of the elite. From the nineteenth century, museums gradually became more accessible to the broader public (Sfinteş, 2012, p. 5), introducing the narrative discourse and replacing the simple static display of objects. This public access and interest aspect is called ‘the new museology’ and explores the conceptual basics that give ideas and objects significance, allowing visitors to experience the exhibition in a personal interactive manner. The visitor now participates both psychologically and physically with the exhibition (Sfinteş, 2012, p. 5). Contemporary museums exclude the organisation of knowledge and focus on expressing collective individualities, shifting from simply exhibiting objects to interpreting them (Sfinteş, 2012, p. 5). A contemporary museum offers the visitor the freedom to interpret and attain a personal meaning of the exhibition. The museum building itself significantly impacts the visitor, becoming a landmark and emerging from the context. The contemporary museum architecture celebrates its out-of-time and out-of-place characteristics (Sfinteş, 2012, p. 5). With a mere glance at the building, the visitors prepare themselves to enter another reality; this is also known as a preliminary rite. By entering a museum, they do not just leave a space behind to enter another but leave the outside reality and participate in a parallel reality inside (Sfinteş, 2012, p. 7). The building enclosure represents the physical threshold. Museum architecture is considered opaque because of the limits of object exhibition; for example, natural light triggers the degradation of the objects. Furthermore, the understanding of and interaction with the exhibition depend on the enclosure from the outside world (Sfinteş, 2012). The illusion of timelessness is a result of simultaneous interconnections with physical space and time, according to Smith (Crane, 2006):

[The outside world] resides within the simultaneous interconnection with, and difference from, everyday space. Although the physical delimitation is strong, it cannot exist

outside the opposition against everyday reality because our awareness of the discrepancy between the past and the present never entirely disappears, but we enjoy the illusion of timelessness. The museum concept evolves from displaying to interpreting by having the architectural expression transformed from solely being the container to being part of the interpretation. Contemporary museum architecture emphasises the important connection between the objects/exhibition and the building, strongly impacting visitors’ interpretations and movement patterns (Sfinteş, 2012, p. 6). Three core strategies relate to the curatorial choice for the built and display form Kali Tzortzi (2007): •

Manipulating the space to heighten the importance of the objects

•

Integrating the objects within the built environment

•

Designing the space and display autonomously.

These strategies enhance the relationship between space and display for the user, ultimately resulting in interpretation (Sfinteş, 2012, p. 7). Liminality does imply the transition between the spaces and also the return. These rites of passage also correspond to the exit of the museum. When leaving the museum, shop, or restaurant, exiting facilitates the return to the real world and society (Sfinteş, 2012, p. 7). Kali Tzortzi (2007) adds:

It is not only the architectural strategies that affect curatorial choices, but strategic curatorial decisions can determine our spatial experience. A museum as a threshold-space is not a by-product of constraints and desires; the museum accommodates the social needs for entertainment, gaining of knowledge, or collective identity. The needs accommodation may lead to informal accumulation of knowledge that becomes important because of a deeper level of understanding and

use afterwards in everyday life (Sfinteş, 2012, p. 8).

Fig. 22_ Space shuttle (Yeomans, 2011)

Pretoria CBD, gauteng south Africa

Fig. 23_ The Didacta’s location (Author, 2021.)

3.4. site selection The Didacta building is chosen as the site for the proposed design. Due to the building being an old remnant of Pretoria, remaining in the memories of space-inspired people. The mini-dissertation will make use of the site conceptually in order to demonstrate the liminal connection between earth and space.

Fig. 24_ Exhibition (Author, 2021.)

3.5. Accommodation list The accommodation list is mainly divided into two segments: public and private. The public segment includes the museum, and the private

segment accommodates the scientific sector of the proposed project.

3.5.1. Private segment

3.5.2. Public segment

•

Offices for SANSA and

•

NRF|SAASTA

• Reception

•

Legal offices

•

Ticket dispensers

•

Finance offices

•

Exhibition displays

•

Human resources offices

•

Interactive displays

•

IT offices

•

Outdoor event space

• Archives

•

Visitor shop

•

Board and meeting rooms

• Restaurant

•

Media room

• Kitchen

•

Range safety offices

• Storerooms

•

Private customer

• Bathrooms

Administration and operations

Museum

Welcome centre

temporary offices • Toilets

Maintenance

•

Staff lounge

• Reception

• Bathrooms •

Research and Development

Cleaning storerooms Facility maintenance office

• Library •

Space engineering department

•

Ethics department

•

Space science and Technology department

•

Mathematics department

• Environmental department •

Economics department

•

Satellite development laboratories

• Archives • Storerooms •

Bathrooms and changing rooms

museum

public

axo van model en aan een kant en a kant

n dan planete private ander aa ander

- administration and operations - Research and development

Fig. 25_ Model diagram investigating the program (Author, 2021.)

04 table of CONTENTS:

table of CONTENTS: table of CONTENTS: Background on Pretoria p. 68 Importance of Nana Sita Street

p. 71

Spatial Intergration

p. 72

The Memory Box Station Design

p. 78

The Didacta Building 82

the thedidacta didacta 83

4.1. background on pretoria Pretoria was founded in 1855 by Marthinus Pretorius, a leader of the Voortrekkers, who named Pretoria after his father Andries Pretorius. The town had 80 houses with 300 residents. On 1 May 1860, Pretoria was declared the capital of the Transvaal, and in later years, the capital of the Republic of South Africa (Pretoria.co.za, n.d.). The surrounding topography of Pretoria influenced the street layout. The city blocks line up with the ‘koppies’ and are oriented from east to west; this longitudinal shape defines the character of Pretoria’s streets (Pienaar, 2005, p. 1). Church Square (which was initially named Market Square) is known to be a hub of Pretoria. The first church built here was a mud-walled building, but it burned down in 1882. An even grander structure later replaced it. On Church Square, the first buildings were constructed on the building line with verandahs towards the square; this is an important aspect of the historic core. Englishman Albert Broderick established himself as a shopkeeper in the community because of the regular open markets held at the square. Broderick was also the owner of the first bar, which was named Hole-in-the-Wall (Pretoria.co.za, n.d.). The street was the place for community interactions and activities, but International Modernism arrived in Pretoria, leading to less street activity (Pienaar, 2005, p. 2). The street activity decreased because the long streets blocked the city users and created small cross alleys that resulted in a finer grain pattern of streets to allow pedestrian movement. With time these small alleys formed the foundation for a formal arcade system. The system provided shelter to people rushing through traffic and natural elements. This unique system is an important aspect of Pretoria’s character, although it contributed to decreasing street activities. By the 1930s, streets were designed as a transport infrastructure for effective vehicular movement and not for vibrant human street activity (Pienaar, 2005, p. 2).

Pretoria scale: Fig. 26_ Map indicating analysis of Pretoria (Author, 2021.)

Since 1994, the political change has progressed through the city, with new opportunities and needs emerging. The process of city regeneration was set in motion. In September 2007, the Pretoria City Council passed a decision to change street names. Council Speaker Khorombi Dau said that the council “saw a need to celebrate the country’s capital in a manner that included other cultures and languages [and the] process was intended to reconstruct and transform the image of the city”. Dau stressed that the new street names are of people who contributed to the struggle for liberation, cultural change, and gender equality (Show me, 2009).

4.2. importance of nana sita street Nana Sita Street (formerly Skinner Street) is one of the many street names changed. Nana Sita (1898 to 1969) is noted for being appointed as the secretary of the Pretoria branch of the Transvaal Indian Congress. He played an active part in the Indian Passive Resistance Movement, for which he was imprisoned three times (Landman, 2021). Nana Sita Street cuts Pretoria’s centre in half and has a rich history of being part of the Pretoria Ring Road Scheme, which was part of a 1960 traffic plan (Kruger, 2019, p. 42). Nana Sita Street forms a boundary of vehicular movement in the inner city.

nana sita street scale: Fig. 27_ Arial analysis of Nana Sita street (Author, 2021.)

4.3 Spatial integration With its implementation of bus stations, the A Re Yeng bus service forms a connective network within the city. The municipality announced in 2014 that the A Re Yeng bus service would expand its transportation services into high-density areas of the city. The spatial integration of urban public transport will ensure a smooth transition from one node to the other, allowing connections with alternative transport modes (Gumbo & Mbatha , 2019). An example of the connections is a specific instance in Hatfield Pretoria, where the A Re Yeng and Gautrain/ Gaubus are close to each other. This results in a convenient walking distance of 25m for commuters between the A Re Yeng and Gaubus. In addition, these bus services are within a 100m radius of the Hatfield Gautrain Station.

Fig. 28_ Spatial and distance illustration

(Author, 2021.)

Fig. 29_ Sketch of Pretoria CBD (Author, 2021.)

When planning formal urban public transport, it is important to integrate these systems spatially to enhance public movement and street activity (Gumbo & Mbatha , 2019). Therefore there is an opportunity to create spatial integration at the A Re Yeng node across the Didacta Building. The liminal state will make itself known while supporting the street activity which will ultimately playoff as the users interact with the Didacta Building (Space) while transitioning between transportation.

4.4. The Memory Box station design The Memory Box station forms part of the A Re Yeng Transit system. Due to the historic inner-city environment, the objective of the Memory Box station design was to control the visual contrast between the station and the context. The glazed box with the geometrised facades and horizontal steel glazed- panel-filled beams scale down any further visual impact (Clarke, 2015). The reflection created by the glazed facades represents a mirror reflecting the architectural heritage of Pretoria. Some of these history-mirroring stations are in front of specific buildings within the city. The list includes the architects and construction date of the architecturally significant historical buildings (Clarke, 2015).: •

Old Synagogue (Beardwood and Ibler, 1898)

•

Between the Raadsaal (Sytze Wierda, 1888) and Standard Bank (Stucke and Harrisson, 1931)

•

Didacta Building (Smit and Viljoen, 1967)

Fig. 30_ Map indicating A Re Yeng routes (Author, 2021.)

4.5. the didacta building The Didacta Building in Nana Sita Street was built in 1967 and was sponsored by a private organisation. The architects were Smit and Viljoen. The building was mainly designed as a museum for science and industry and would exhibit the latest developments. The building programme included a restaurant that brought nightlife interest to Pretoria (Greig, 1971, p. 211). The Museum of Science and Technology in the Didacta Building is an eminent landmark. The street elevation of the museum has two distinct and separate skins: the inner screen of panels constructed from clear glass and aluminium, while the outer skin is pre-cast concrete units. The skin has sculpted openings that shade most of the ground floor and the basement, which were mainly designed as exhibition spaces. Regularly spaced reinforced concrete columns support the continuous cantilevered top storey; the structure is accentuated by the projection of the beam ends. The modern architectural concrete style reminds one of a previous, ongoing mannerist design in Japan. The questionable marriage between the chunky constructs of the outer skin and the smooth finesse of the inner skin brands the Didacta Building as a recognisable, sophisticated structure of Pretoria (Greig, 1971, p. 211). The museum closed its doors in 2007, after 47 years of various public exhibitions about science, technology, and space travel (SAASTA, n.d.). The historic building is known for housing the unique ‘handson’ museum and was one of its kind in South Africa. The museum was recently adapted to be reused as administration offices by the NRF|SAASTA.

Fig. 31_ Didacta facade (Duarte, 2019.)

Fig. 32_ Photograph of the liminal between the skin and the glazing (Duarte, 2019.)

Fig. 33_ Isonometric of the existing building (Author, 2021.)

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4.6. Conclusion Renovations of historic buildings are underway in Pretoria, resulting in more sustainable development and transforming the city into a tourist destination. For example, learning facilities are located above small-loan businesses; bakeries and office blocks are transformed into residential flats; and traditional healers and hawkers trade on the sidewalks. The city is meant to be enriched by diversity and cultural experiences as it takes on a new form of life. This mini-dissertation attempts to contribute positively towards Pretoria by restoring and reviving the unique ‘hands-on’ memories of the Didacta Building through didactic architecture, acknowledging the Central A Re Yeng Station located on Nana Sita Street, and forming a node of spatial integration between Church Square and the Pretoria Train Station to support the state of liminality.

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05 CONTENTS:

Adaptive Reuse Analysis

p. 100

102

adaptive adaptive reuse analysis reuse analysis 103

5.1. adaptive reuse analysis Adaptive reuse is finding a new purpose or addition to existing architecture. This specific form of redevelopment drives the revival of historic buildings and neighbourhoods across the globe. Adaptive reuse is a particular assortment of redevelopment that reuses an existing structure for the principles of contemporary living, even if the building structure was constructed in a foregone era for purposes that have become outdated. Focusing on adaptive reuse examples over the last two decades, one finds vacant office buildings transformed to accommodate new forms of residential premises and former industrial warehouses converted into restaurants. There are many versions of adaptive reuse, depending on the developmental history of the city or the economy of the region and nation (Planetizen, n.d.). Adaptive reuse is a significant source of momentum that revitalises the historic core of a city.

104

The following are advantages associated with adaptive reuse of existing structures: •

Conserves energy: By reclaiming and repurposing

existing structures, the material energy consumption is conserved and uses the existing infrastructure for access to utilities and transportation, among other requirements. •

Contributes to sustainability:

The existing

structures are usually situated in economically established growth areas with a large and diverse population. By reclaiming, the reused structures will support the growth and sustainability of the neighbourhoods. •

Enhances community Character: By providing

renewed life to existing buildings, the historic character of a community is efficiently preserved. The reuse of a building provides a link between the past of a community and their present needs. •

Encourages investment:

Structures that might

have remained underused now encourage more revitalisation, development, and investment in areas while generating more employment opportunities. •

Saving costs:

Instead of demolishing an existing

structure that outlived the original use, reusing saves on demolition costs and creates an opportunity for unique designs that enhance the community. •

Saving time: Through building reuse, the infrastructure is

already in place that may result in time-saving. In addition, municipal approval occurs faster and is less expensive compared to new construction. •

Benefits the environment: The reuse of a building

provides public health and environmental benefits by redressing contaminants related to older building materials.

105

106

The following are challenges associated with adaptive reuse (Chester County Planning Commission, n.d.).: •

Physical limitations:

Assigning a new purpose to

an existing building and preserving architectural or historical features may become challenging because of the structural constraints. •

Regulatory constraints: Zoning may restrict and

limit adaptive reuse. An existing building or structure may no longer comply with current building permits, zoning, and local development regulations. •

Potential

environmental

hazards:

Environmental pollutants such as lead and asbestos are present in many older structures and buildings, demanding expensive adaptation.

107

5.1.1. Restoration The process of returning a building to its previous state is called restoration. Historic buildings and occasionally modern buildings are typically restoration projects. The main goal of the process is to mimic or restore the original structure. Restoration projects usually involve: •

Repairing or replacing fixtures

•

Completing the building’s envelope

•

Restoring finishes and aesthetics of the building.

The Menokin House

was the home of Francis Lightfoot Lee and

Rebecca Tayloe Lee, co-signers of the Declaration of Independence. This house is a well-documented eighteenth-century house because [of the availability of?] the original architectural drawings of the house made it possible for this method of preservation (Harrouk, 2020). The Architect’s Newspaper (2016) highlights the not-seen: Emphasising the deconstructed architectural elements of the building, revealing what is usually not seen: the work of restoration and conservation, the materials used, and the methods and craftsmanship involved in eighteenth-century construction. The Glass House Project in Virginia was chosen as a case study. Construction has begun through the Menokin Foundation. The collaborators are designer Machado Silvetti, landscape designer Reed Hilderbrand, and glass engineer Eckersley O’Callaghan. This initiative will preserve and protect what remains of the historical landmark house built-in 1769. The process will restore sections of the perished floors, walls, and roof sections with glass. The project will be completed by 2023 (Harrouk, 2020). When completed in early 2023, the house will invite visitors to physically explore the relics of both the new spaces and the original building. The glass structure blends seamlessly with the original brick, stone, and timber “to re-establish the overall configuration of the building, its footprint, and its functions” (Architect’s Newspaper, 2016).

108

Fig. 34_ The Glass House Project (Author, 2021.)

109

110

Fig. 35_ Stages of the Renovation process (He, 2020.)

5.1.2. Renovation The renovation process refers to upgrading an existing structure to improve the performance by either providing additional amenities, restoring existing facilities, or altering the scope of the structure (Structural Cross Sections, 2017). Depending on the needs of the project, renovation tends to be more cost-effective than remodelling and restoration. The renovation of the Ankang Library was chosen as a case study. Ankang is a city located on the south side of Shanxi Province in the People’s Republic of China. The original Ankang Library doors opened in 1984. However, over time the building with its facilities failed to keep up and became obsolete due to the fast-developing information age in terms of software and hardware, establishing a need for a comprehensive regeneration programme (Arch20, 2020). The case study investigation into the renovation revealed that the main purpose was to revive the old library into a welcoming community space, contrasting it with the existing historical context. The renovation process involves three buildings. The main building is located at the centre. On the courtyard to the north is a second building that faces the street, and on the courtyard to the south is the third building for a self-use office. The study only focuses on the main building. The main building is a three-storey frame structure constructed in the 1980s. Over a period, the windows and doors aged badly, and some parts of the existing exterior envelope fell apart. The renovation is to preserve the original building structure and some external supporting walls. Some external walls on the first and third levels were extracted to support the openness and transparency of the building. The newly renovated building obeys the three-stage characteristics . Transparent glass walls are lined with perforated aluminium sunshade curtains that form three clear volumes, resembling books stacked between the city (Arch20, 2020). The interior of the building emits an attentive and quiet reading atmosphere, with only a window between the readers and the street. The serenity and calm conditions contrast the frenetic energy of the street, creating tension (Arch20, 2020).

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5.1.3 Façadism Facadism is preserving a building or structure envelope, including new construction behind it (Reliance Foundry, n.d.). This method is a growing urban trend, preserving the historic front of neighbourhoods through complete restoration and renovation (Walsh, 2019). Bargery (2005) expands on the construction behind the facade:

Facadism in its most commonly understood sense involves retaining the facade of a (usually historic) building that is deemed to have some architectural or other cultural value and building afresh behind it. Architectural facadism intersects with adaptive reuse, where both involve taking the old and making it new. Regarding facadism as a type of adaptive reuse, the process involves restoring, preserving, and conserving the facade, while the interior is constructed from scratch (Reliance Foundry, n.d.). Facadism is an effective bridge between the old and the new and is often seen in developing cities. The Hearst Tower building in New York City is an example of facadism chosen as a case study. The existing Art Deco-style structure was designed by Joseph Urban and George B. Post & Sons in 1928 and later founded by William Randolph Hearst. The designated landmark houses the headquarters of Hearst Communications that has 3715m2 of space. A new tower is over 46 stories tall and 80 000m2 of office space was created (Foster and Partners, 2012). The solution suggested at the Hearst Tower building by Lord Norman Foster was to preserve the entire facade base but to gut the interior

112

space and fill it with an atrium. On the exterior, the new stainless-steeland-glass tower appears to float above the six-story stone base. The

steel tower dominates the base and is embraced because museum curators believe restoration should be clearly defined and not hidden (Foster and Partners, 2012).

Fig. 36_ The Hearst Tower (Author, 2021.)

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5.1.4 Integration With this type of adaptive reuse, the new and the old structure are integrated in such a way that the original building remains the same but is encompassed by the new building (Spacey, 2017). The Jægersborg Water Tower project in Copenhagen in Denmark was chosen as a case study. The large-scale structure is an old water tower constructed in the 1950s. The red water tank with the cone-shaped roof had to be kept as a landmark. The tower was changed by the Dorte Mandrup Architects in 2004, winning a competition for the conversion of the water tower into a mixed-use building with a programme of small residential apartments and a youth centre (Dorte Mandrup Arkitekter, 2008). The structure consists of six columns in the middle surrounded by twelve reinforced concrete columns on the periphery (Kashkooli, 2010, p. 44). The columns support the water tank and nine 150mm deep concrete floors. The mostly open existing floors serve as empty storage and an after-school activity centre on the ground floor (Kashkooli, 2010, p. 44). The smaller scale of the crystal structure of the window frames together but in contrast with the large-scale columns forms a unique relationship between the larger and smaller human scale ratio of the new integrations (Kashkooli, 2010, p. 46). The limited floor area requires a clever solution but incorporating the generous height of the ceiling created various spaces for the youth who inhabit the building. The utility services are concentrated in one box-like unit (bathroom, wardrobe, kitchen, and small workspace). A sleeping area is provided at the top of the box-like unit. This open space sleeping area was created to be close to the window; a more enclosed space is inside the open space and with the most intimate space on top of the box-like unit (Kashkooli, 2010, p. 46). Leupen (2006) explains how dowelling extends a building’s life:

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“The mixed programs or so-called hybrid buildings make this possible. The addition of the dowelling does not only add space but also extends the life of the old building. The new functions give the tower a new lease of life” - Bernard Leupen, 2006

Fig. 37_ The Jaegersborg Water Tower (Author, 2021.)

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5.1.5. Infrastructure This type of repurposing is based specifically on a structure or a building (Spacey, 2017). The High Line in New York was chosen as a case study to understand infrastructural repurposing better. This elevated industrial railway was converted into a public park. The long steel structure was built in the 1930s and was used for the last time in 1980. The High Line stretches across the city’s west side, from Gansevoort Street through the West Chelsea gallery neighbourhood to 34th Street (Cilento, 2009). The High Line is a winning proposal of James Corner Field Operations with Diller Scofidio & Renfro. Before constructing the new landscape of the High Line, every railway component was tested and re-treated to ensure structural strength. As the rail components were removed, they were marked and mapped and eventually returned to their original location to be integrated as a planter (Cilento, 2009). The High Line has multiple access points. Key components on the elevated surface attract visitors to explore and spend time. For example, the entrance close to 23rd Street attracts people to seating steps alongside an open lawn; and the entrance on 26th Street attracts people to a viewing area. The public is encouraged to experience and meander through the unobtrusive and undefined environment. Former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg (2009) said,

“an extraordinary gift to our city’s future…. It really does live up to its highest expectation”.

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Fig. 38_ High Line (Author, 2021.)

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06 CONTENTS: Mitoseum

p. 116

The California Academy of Sciences

p. 120

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

p. 124

118

precedent precedent study study 119

6.1 MITOSEUM BAUTZEN, GERMANY Architects: Rimpf ARCHITEKTUR Year: 2017 The architect’s concept for the entrance to the Mitoseum is the ‘origin of life’, specifically the primordial cell. The latticework construction and shape of the building is a dialogue with nature (and the context), with the bionic adoptions that demonstrate the evolution of life. The primordial cell’s influence is seen in the structure, generating curiosity in visitors as they approach the building. Mitosis has six phases. The initial stage is interphase, followed by prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Due to their large volume and height, the ’cells’ are visible from a distance. The translucent colour of the ‘membrane envelope’ structure is due to the ETFE foil material. Translucency represents life and nature. The shape of the structure and typography contribute to the building’s character of significance and uniqueness. The landscape includes a descent in the terrain that is integrated into the design to orchestrate the approach to the building. The entrance path is a narrow access route flanked by lava rocks. The presence of the theme park is visible through the translucent membrane envelope. Therefore, when passing the threshold, the visitor leaves behind the ‘real world’ and enters the history of the evolution of life and Earth. On the inside, the organic and smooth shapes spontaneously draw the visitor through the central foyer that connects to the ticket office, bistro, shop, and ancillary rooms. The three dome light constructions symbolise the cells of mitosis. The construction and shapes are borrowed from nature to support the necessity of intelligent, economic, and ambitious construction. By flooding the interior of the transparent shell after dark, the Mitoseum becomes a luminous landmark (Rimpf Artchitektur, 2017).

120

Fig. 39_ Highlighted structure of the Mitoseum (Moser, 2018.)

121

Fig. 40_ Section of the academy (Griffith,

122

2008.)

6.2. The CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES Architects: Renzo Piano Building Workshop, Stantec Architecture Year: 2008 The concept for the California Academy of Sciences is a spiderweb. The academy is a prestigious institution founded in San Francisco in the United States in 1853. Due to the Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989, the academy buildings were damaged, and consultations for a new structure were implemented. The new academy is located at Golden Gate Park. Scientific research and public experience happen simultaneously at the academy. The academy consists of buildings built between 1916 and 1976 that are grouped around a central courtyard . The threshold opens into a joint area is enclosed with a concave glass canopy with a complex structure similar to a spider’s web. The buildings are spaced around the central courtyard that functions as the entrance lobby and is the centre for the collections. The complex combines space for exhibition, conservation, education and research into a natural history museum, planetarium, and aquarium. Various elements and shapes are expressed through the building’s roofline and follow the components. The roof is a 37 000m2 composite piece of the park cut and lifted 10m above ground level. The dome’s speckled pattern of skylights is automated to close and open for ventilation, and it covers the rainforest exhibitions and the planetarium (Renzo Piano Building Workshop, 2008).

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6.3. SOLOMON R. GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM NEW YORK, UNITED STATES Architects: Frank Lloyd Wright Year: 1956 Frank Lloyd Wright’s successful concept of the inside is “one great space on a continuous floor”. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum opened to the public in 1956, six months after Wright’s passing. The organic curves of the exterior contrast against the strict Manhattan city grid and is a familiar landmark to users. On the exterior is a stacked white cylinder swirling towards the sky. The dramatic reinforced concrete curve of the exterior is visible in the interior. The continuous floor has ramps arranged at various levels that overlook the atrium, allowing interaction between users on the various levels (Perez, 2010). Simultaneously, the spiral ramp requires continuous physical effort from users, symbolising knowledge accumulation (Sfinteş, 2012). The slanted interior walls made the display of paintings difficult; therefore, in 1992, an addition was designed by Gwathmey Siegel & Associates Architects and built. The architects studied Wright’s original sketches and designed a ten-storey limestone tower that is more appropriate for displaying art. After 700 sketches and six sets of working drawings, the museum reflects the effort in designing the spatial freedom in Wright’s unique style. He turned his vision into a sculptured building overlooking Central Park .

124

Fig. 41_ Interior of the museum (Heald, 2016.)

125

07 CONTENTS: Analysis

p. 128

Scale

p. 130

Development Sketches

p. 132

Prelimanary Proposed Design

p. 134

126

proposed proposed design design 127

7.1. Analysis 7.1. nana sita street

nana sita street scale:

128

Fig. 42_ Analysis of Nana Sita St (Author, 2021.)

7.2. site

site analysis scale:

Fig. 43_ Analysis of proposed site (Author, 2021.)

129

7.2. scale The below scale is a representation of the size of the planets, with the ratio of Earth being equal in size as an average human.

130

Fig. 44_ Scale (Author, 2021.)

131

7.3. development sketches

132

7.4. preliminary proposed design

ground floor plan scale:

134

Fig. 45_ Proposed ground floorplan (Author, 2021.)

135

136

Fig. 46_ Proposed section (Author, 2021.)

137

08 CONTENTS:

Introduction

141

Geodesic Domes

142

Model Exploration

144

Production Method

147

Specifications

148

Technical Resolution

151

138

ARCHITECTURE ARCHITECTURE 139

140

Fig. 47_ Architectural language concept (Author, 2021.)

8.1. Introduction The main theme of this mini-dissertation, the creation of a didactic environment through technological advanced interactive architecture. The building’s construction becomes the teacher to the public on how space science and technology has an immensely positive impact on sustainability and development. The new proposed construction will be based on the existing architectural language of the Didacta building, but the choice of connections and materials will be based on a more technological advanced viewpoint. Therefore, the liminal state between the old and the new architecture can be personally experienced. Not only will the old and new be clearly defined, but there will also be a direct interaction between the liminal, exhibition, architecture, and space. The focus of this chapter is specific to the construction of a geodesic dome, and how the structural joints can be modernized through advanced technology.

141

8.2. Geodesic Domes The geodesic dome structure is formed by lightweight polygonal or triangular planes, these consist mainly of tensional flat planes or skeletal struts. The structure has a spherical form, but it replaces the arch principle by distributing stresses throughout the structure. It was developed in the 20th century by American engineer and architect R. Buckminster Fuller (The Editors of Encyclopaedia, 2012). A geodesic dome is an efficient structure because the structural form is a triangle. Comparing the stable shape of a triangle to a rectangle, the rectangle will deform if a force is applied to the corner but applying that same force to the triangle will not distort.

Focusing on the

whole of the structure, the dome only has a surface area of 38% to enclose a space. While there is less surface also exposed to exterior temperature, therefore it is more effective to control the temperature than a rectilinear assembly. The erection of the dome is a sufficient process and does not need heavy equipment but can make the use of prefabricated components (The Editors of Encyclopaedia, 2012).

142

Fig. 48_Buckminster Fukker’s Geodesic dome (Heald, 2016.)

143

8.3.Model exploration 8.3.1 Geodesic dome built

144

Fig. 49_Model building (Author, 2021.)

After exploration of building a geodesic dome model, it was discovered that that the moveable joint (the jelly tot) eases the construction process compared to the fixed joint (the clay).

Fig. 50_Geodesic model (Author, 2021.)

145

Fig. 51_Dome construction illustration (Author, 2021.)

146

8.4.production method Printing the whole structure was the first initial idea. Due to the size of the structure and the theme of the design proposal, Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) was chosen as the method of construction. The dome construction nodes will be 3D printed: •

More people to construct it by hand = work opportunities

•

When visiting the centre the public can interact with the

constructed dome and this construction principle can be

adapted to everyday uses.

•

Due to the 3D printing technology, the only filament has to

be imported which decreases the volume needed for

storage and transportation.

•

The construction components will be printed locally at the

National Laser Centre (NLR).

•

Due to the 3D printing technology the ball joint can be adapted

to any situation with minimal changes.

•

The moveable node assists change in the size of the dome

structure and forms openings.

Fig. 52_Example of uses for a geodesic dome (Author, 2021.)

147

8.5. Specifications

Outline specification: INTERNAL GALVANISED STEEL GEODESTIC DOME

148

a.)

Type: Internal geodesic dome system with prefabricated cladding

b.)

Supporting Structure:

i.)

Primary supporting structure: Insitu concrete column

•

Size: 350mm x 250mm

•

Material: Insitu Concrete

•

Finish: Exposed aggregated tooled finish.

•

Degree of accuracy III: SANS 2001-CC1

•

Formwork: Formwork to be rigid and braced to prevent “kicking”.

•

Accessories/other requirements: U-bolts to be casted in concrete column as per Engineer’s

specifications.

•

Manufacturer: Contractor’s choice, submit proposal.

ii.)

Secondary supporting structure: Geodesic dome steel structural member

•

Profile: Square hollow tubing

•

Size: 50mm x 50mm

•

Material: Galvanised steel

•

Finish: Galvanised

•

Holes: Holes to be drilled prior to galvanising

•

Pitch and Angle: As per Architect’s Drawings

•

Member fixed to column: Member welded to steel footing according to regulations SANS

3834/ISO 3834 and fixed to column with bolts as per Architect’s Drawings.

•

Members fixed to each other: 30mm 3D printed ball joint and175mm 3D printed ball socket.

•

Manufacturer: SA Metal Group, +27 (0)86 726 3825

c.)

Prefabricated cladding:

i.)

Size: As per Architect’s Drawings

ii.)

Material: Nefila HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene)

iii.)

Finish: FDM 3D printed

•

Type A panel – 20% infill

•

Type B panel – 40% infill

•

Type C panel – 80% infill

iv.)

Fixing: The panels are prefabricated with clips which clips on as per Architect’s Drawings.

v.)

Other requirements: Prefabricated panels must be fixed from most translucent to least

translucent.

vi.)

Pitch and Angle: As per Architect’s Drawings

vii.)

Manufacturer of filament: Nefilatek based in Montreal +1 (5)14 549 8950

viii.)

Manufacturer of printing: National Laser Centre (NLC) based in Pretoria + 27 (0)12 841 2911

Fig. 52_Dome models (Author, 2021.)

149

150

8.5. Technical resolution

Fig. 53_Concept model of proposed design (Author, 2021.)

151

152

153

154

155

156

157

158

159

160

161

162

conclusion conclusion

163

164

The liminal state is full of unseen knowledge but with the proposed study the liminal becomes a space where interaction is encouraged, and knowledge is ingrained. Space science and technology integration between the public and the scientists is a crucial point to make these space technological advances accessible to the public. By proposing to make space more accessible to the public and advancing in the unique space needs of South Africa, it will further inspire future generations of scientists, engineers, and dreamers, ultimately it will contribute to the sustainability and development of the nation.

Fig. 54_Parti-diagram (Author, 2021.)

165

166

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172

173

list ofof list figures figures

Fig. 1_ Milkyway

Bureau, O., 2020. Cosmic Radio Waves Detected For The First Time

From Space [electronic image]. [online] Available at: https://odishabytes.com/cosmic-radio-waves-de

tected-for-the-first-time-from-space/ [Accessed 10 June 2021].

Fig. 2_ Liminality diagram

By Author, 2021

Fig. 3_ Didacta building connecting to Space

By Author, 2021

Fig. 4_Explore

By Author, 2021

Fig. 5_ Hartebeesthoek Array of Antennas

By Author, 2021

Fig. 6_ Liminality diagram

By Author, 2021

Fig. 7_ Horizon

By Author, 2021

Fig. 8_ llustration of Pretoria and Nana Sita Street

By Author, 2021

Fig. 9_ The Didacta building

By Author, 2021

Fig. 10_ Threshold

By Author, 2021

Fig. 11_ Ancient astronomy

Boșcu, P., 2017. Astronomy in the Ancient Times [electronic image]. [online] Learn history easily.

Available at: https://en.historylapse.org/astronomy-in-the-ancient-times [Accessed 8 December 2021].

Fig. 12_ Photograph of Black hole

Shiokawa, H., 2019. First ever picture of a black hole may be revealed this week [electronic image].

[online] NewScientist. Available at: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2198937-first-ever-picture-of-

a-black-hole-may-be-revealed-this-week/ [Accessed 16 August 2021].

Fig. 13_ Planets

By Author, 2021

Fig. 14_ Launch

Etherington, D., 2019. Northrop Grumman lands customer for first OmegA rocket launch in 2021

[electronic image]. [online] TechCrunch. Available at: https://techcrunch.com/2019/12/12/northrop-

grumman-lands-customer-for-first-omega-rocket-launch-in-2021/ [Accessed 25 May 2021].

Fig. 15_ Collage of space benefits

By Author, 2021

Fig. 16_ African continent illustrating the location case studies

By Author, 2021

Fig. 17_ Earth circled by satellites

By Author, 2021

Fig. 18_ Satellite image indicating animal positions

By Author, 2021

174

Fig. 19_ Geospatial data

Chervov, A., 2019. Geospatial Commission to make geospatial data more accessible [electronic image].

[online] BIMToday. Available at: https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/bim-news/geospatial-data-

accessible/55787/ [Accessed 6 September 2021].

Fig. 20_ The International Space Station (ISS)

NASA, 2010. NASA Is Setting a Bunch of Fires in Space on Purpose [electronic image]. [online] NBC

NEWS. Available at: https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/innovation/nasa-setting-bunch-fires-space-

purpose-n660561 [Accessed 26 August 2021].

Fig. 21_ The threshold between realities

By Author, 2021

Fig. 22_ Space shuttle

Yeomans, J., 2011. The space shuttle’s history in pictures [electronic image]. [online] ZDNet. Available

at: https://www.zdnet.com/pictures/the-space-shuttles-history-in-pictures/ [Accessed 8 August 2021].

Fig. 23_ The Didacta’s location

By Author, 2021

Fig. 24_ Exhibition

By Author, 2021

Fig. 25_ Model diagram investigating the program

By Author, 2021

Fig. 26_ Map indicating analysis of Pretoria

By Author, 2021

Fig. 27_ Arial analysis of Nana Sita street

By Author, 2021

Fig. 28_ Spatial and distance illustration

By Author, 2021

Fig. 29_ Sketch of Pretoria CBD

By Author, 2021

Fig. 30_ Map indicating A Re Yeng routes

By Author, 2021

Fig. 31_ Didacta facade

Duarte, N., 2019. Cyberflaneur Project 1 [photograph]. [Accessed 25 September 2021].

Fig. 32_ Photograph of the liminal between the skin and the glazing

Duarte, N., 2019. Cyberflaneur Project 2 [photograph]. [Accessed 25 September 2021].

Fig. 33_ Isonometric of the existing building

By Author, 2021

Fig. 34_ The Glass House Project

By Author, 2021

Fig. 35_ Stages of the Renovation process

He, L., 2020. The Renovation of Ankang Library | UUA (United Units Architects) [electronic image].

[online] Arch20. Available at: https://www.arch2o.com/the-renovation-of-ankang-library-uua-unit

ed-units-architects/ [Accessed 18 September 2021].

Fig. 36_ The Hearst Tower

By Author, 2021

175

Fig. 37_ The Jaegersborg Water Tower

By Author, 2021

Fig. 38_ High Line

By Author, 2021

Fig. 39_ Highlighted structure of the Mitoseum

Moser, M., 2018. A ‘Mitoseum’ in Germany [electronic image]. [online] World-architects. Available at:

https://www.world-architects.com/en/architecture-news/found/a-mitoseum-in-germany [Accessed 29

April 2021].

Fig. 40_ Section of the academy

Griffith, T., 2008. California Academy of Sciences / Renzo Piano Building Workshop + Stantec Architecture

[electronic image]. [online] Archdaily. Available at: https://www.archdaily.com/6810/california-academy-

of-sciences-renzo-piano [Accessed 25 September 2021].

Fig. 41_ Interior of the museum

Heald, D., 2016. 9 Times Architects Transformed Frank Lloyd Wright’s Guggenheim Museum [electronic

image]. [online] Archdaily. Available at: https://www.archdaily.com/797188/9-times-architects-

transformed-frank-lloyd-wrights-guggenheim-museum [Accessed 30 June 2021].

Fig. 42_ Analysis of Nana Sita St

By Author, 2021

Fig. 43_ Analysis of proposed site

By Author, 2021

Fig. 44_ Scale

By Author, 2021

Fig. 45_ Proposed ground floorplan

By Author, 2021

Fig. 46_ Proposed section

By Author, 2021

Fig. 47_ Architectural language concept

By Author, 2021

Fig. 48_Buckminster Fukker’s Geodesic dome

Heald, D., 2016. 9 Times Architects Transformed Frank Lloyd Wright’s Guggenheim Museum [electronic

image]. [online] Archdaily. Available at: https://www.archdaily.com/797188/9-times-architects-

transformed-frank-lloyd-wrights-guggenheim-museum [Accessed 30 June 2021].

Fig. 49_Model building

By Author, 2021

Fig. 50_Geodesic model

By Author, 2021

Fig. 51_Dome construction illustration

By Author, 2021

Fig. 52_Example of uses for a geodesic dome

By Author, 2021

Fig. 52_Dome models

By Author, 2021

Fig. 53_Concept model of proposed design

By Author, 2021

176

Fig. 54_Parti-diagram

By Author, 2021

Fig. 55_To the future

By Author, 2021

177

178

Fig. 55_To the future (Author, 2021.)

179