James Michael Brown Year 3 - Comprehensive Design Project University of Lincoln - 2014
Observing the Fenlands Response Studio is a platform for an intellectual approach to the pursuit of architectural ideals through cultural and technological investigation and innovation. The aim of the studio is to produce design proposals that are culturally rich, aesthetically pleasing and socially equitable. The idea rests upon the understanding of a building as a system of interrelated and interacting elements within its context, performing usefully throughout its lifetime, responding and adapting to future changes. The aim of this year’s studio is to develop a study of the Lincolnshire Fens and the Wash, with the principle objective of “observing, learning, monitoring and recording.� Rural Study A study was undertaken to explore and analyse the Lincolnshire Fens and the Wash, resulting in a graphical and physical presentation where the research and findings were collated. The study documented the region, the landscape, the local vernacular, and the typology as well as the social, climatic and economic issues affecting the area. Small Project: Bird Hide + Obseravtion Points Scheme Once the rural study was established a chosen program was developed on a site of interest identified during the research and analysis period. More specific research about the chosen program and site was undertaken in order to develop a design proposal that responds to the rural context in which it sits while considering appropriate locations and strategies. Major Building: RAF Holbeach Visitor Centre With the design philosophy and understanding of the local context developed through the rural study and small project, a brief was developed which identified the most appropriate design strategies and solutions to apply all aspects of the design from inception to completion. A holistic approach to design was encouraged, by addressing rural, cultural, social, economic, environmental, contextual, spatial qualities, materials and technological issues.