Jo Nel M.Arch Thesis 2013 - common ground - Re-weaving the Buffer Zone

Page 1

common ground Johannes G Nel

Department of Architecture, University of the Free State, October 2013


TABLE OF CONTENTS

4

Abstract

6

Introduction

11

Polemics and Potential

12

Literature Review

22

Introduction to Site

73

Precedent Studies

131

Structured Terraces


Abstract As social beings people constantly interact with one another. N.J. Habraken (HABRAKEN, N.J., 1998) has pointed out how our sense of emotional well being is fostered through our continuous visual and physical interaction, and has emphasized the role of architecture in promoting this sense. Patrick Shumacher (SCHUMACHER, P., 2012) mentions succinctly that “Architecture is the facilitation of human communication processes.” These writers are representative of a general consensus that architecture is greatly instrumental in developing and enhancing communication, and in contribution towards the vibrancy of a community. This thesis is motivated by these ideas. I have concentrated on Paarl, which has been a town divided by natural barriers, and by Apartheid-period segregation town planning (Fescura, F). My intention with this project is to assess these barriers, and propose an architectural construct to overcome these barriers, and replace the instruments of division with new possibilities of vibrant communication. This renewal is to be achieved through:

banks into the “fabric” of the town in the best manner.

play; an active, vibrant riverfront alive with residents and tourists.

described in this dissertation. I aim to follow a systematic approach of researching, developing, conceptu-

This project forms part of a larger urban framework, and the fraction that I chose to develop strategically aims to set forth enough momentum for the development and integration to continue along the banks as far as it is feasible. My project, blending theory and practical sense, is described in the pages that follow. It deals with only a section of Paarl and the Berg River, but my intention is to motivate further development that could stimulate employment, utilization of natural resources and interaction between people to a wider area.

The system of my approach is as follows:

2.

Researching possible theories that support or contradict my hypothesis

3.

Researching present and futuristic concepts in urban design and architecture

4.

Developing an architectural narrative of the abstract research in a series of i concept sketches and drawings ii model constructs namely; a “touch stone” and “concept model”

5.

In the Design Development continuing to develop the “Concept” ideas into more practical and physical architecture by: ii.

6.

7.

secondly, analysing possible complimentary functions to develop an accommodation list iii. thirdly, identify the most appropriate typologies and develop these buildings with the help of spacial and structural precedences Compiling a Technical Report, describing the functions, spaces and structure as it relates to the Thesis Intent, the Concept and the Theoretical Approach. Finally, providing a conclusion 5


Introduction Paarl, the 3rd largest town in the Western Cape (paarlonline.co.za), faces numerous urban challenges, as do many South African towns and cities.

and on its potential. Unlike spacial models that have been replicated almost generically in the past, I intent producing new models that more appropriately anticipate future conditions. This scheme will focus on the site constraints and opportunities in order to vitalize it into a sustainable urban infrastructure which could be a vital a new symbol for the area.

Figure 1.

Image of the Berg River

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The notion of reversal is based on a presupposition; the condition of urto two determining factors: Urban development as a result of Natural features and Apartheid Urban Planning. (site) The development of the town of Paarl was informed by the mountain to the West and the Berg River, running from North to South, which now gives Paarl one of the longest main roads in South Africa. Another determining condition was Apartheid Urban Planning, which intentionally used natural features, industrial belts, and infrastructure to create buffer zones used to create and reinforce racial segregation. (FRESCURA, F., 2012) Dissolving the buffer “In recent years, social distance [was] increasingly understood as a buffer, a safety measure: distance has become a device to guarantee separation and segregation.” Scheerlinck (SCHEERLINCK, Kris W. B.) . This social distance is one of the ways in which town planning was used to deliberately separate races in the past. In order to instigate change, it will be necessary to initiate action of a deliberate and proactive nature to begin the breakdown of the major features of Apartheid Urban Planning. These characteristics may be summarised as follows:

4. Industrial Belts as Buffer Zones. Although buffer zones were used to create and reinforce racial segregation, this land was invariably retained under White municipal control and in many cases was developed as industrial townships. Thus although businesses in these areas employed workers from the nearby Black

Black residential suburbs were invariably removed from the CBD, an obvious link with the colonial Segregated City. The distance from the city centre varies from instance to instance.

Black neighbourhoods

CBD White neighbourhoods

One of the most noticeable features of the Apartheid City is the wide spread of its residential suburbs linked by a relatively long travel links. An integrated city on the other hand, would probably have developed along more compact lines.

DISTANCE TO SITE

7. Military Control. 1,000m

Many Black residential suburbs established during and after the 1950s 2,000m

1. The Segregation of Residential Areas.

8. Social Infrastructure. -

in the Black community itself.

3,000m

The development of separate residential areas must also be read in

4,000m 5,000m

access they might be accorded to an urban area was only temporary.

2. Use of Buffer Zones. Group areas were separated by means of buffer zones, which were 100m minimum width, but in some cases, could be as much as 250m. This is

-

LAND-USE | macro

ployment.

cultivated agriculture (vinculture) residential preffered commercial (market) industrial recreational open green space open space (space between)

3. Use of Natural Features. In many instances planners were allowed to incorporate natural features, Figure 2.

A map showing land use in and around Paarl. Clearly can be seen how the Berg River divides the town into two “halves”

9


Polemics and Potential design, thus I propose a process of “Reversal” by design. By this I imply undoing past structures in order to introduce new structures. Reversal usually implies a presupposition; that the past needs to be erased. In the case of Paarl the present site - a product of town planning could be replaces by a development that recognizes the particular natural setting as well as the potential of creating a vibrant urban and cultural fabric.

Potential Improving working class access to inner city land. This may be done in a number of ways: 1. Improving public transport links between outlying areas and inner cities, possibly through a heavily subsidized light rail system. 2. Creating areas of medium rise living within the inner city, giving a selection of rent-able as well as purchasable residential space.

Polemics use. This will permit shopkeepers, entrepreneurs and families to live above their work premises, subsidizing their living standards and encouraging light industrial and manufacturing entrepreneurship.

are:

Site Constraints, Inherent challenges, and Opportunities: 1. Under utilized park and water resource: the river can be more utilized for sports activities, leisure, electricity generation and passive temperature regulation. 2.

Dilapidating infrastructure due to vandal activity along the river.

4. Water pollution along river banks as well as the river itself. The river banks and river itself is prone to littering due to lack of surveillance and people squatting under the bridges. 5.

Will have to connect pedestrians from street level to river level

6.

No vehicular access and parking on site.

opment and urban blight.” (WET, A. de, 2013) 5. The entire Berg River, demarcated as a greenbelt, should be upgraded and maintained as such and forms the public-activity spine of the entire development. Upgrading and maintaining the entire Berg River, which is demarcated as a green belt, could form a vibrant variety of public activity, utilization of natural resources and economic potential.

“integrate” these buffer zones and transform the area into lively, active, culturally rich “common ground.” As well as introducing uplifting schemes to create transport nodes, promote the transfer of skills, create jobs and promote public space activities (parks, river, restaurants, activities).

7. Poor walkways and paths. Paths could be formalised and connect the various functions along and across the site. There is a pospromenade. Figure 3.

Photograph of the Berg River, taken on the banks at Sunset

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Literature Review I am particularly intrigued by the relationship between work and other aspects of life: how work repulates the ordering of out lives, and shapes the topography of our cities and the structure of our buildings. To me, architecture is the culmination of social structures, utopian vision, and tures, technology, and perception of human interaction. I believe the new and increasing changes taking place in the work environment can be catalyst for developing a new “work-typology”: this assumption lies at the foundation of my thesis.

the metaphor of waves conduct a brief synopsis of the wealth creation. underlying fundamentals, speed of economic advances, synchronization time usage in society, business and culture. These wealth systems are described as three distinct waves, beginning with the First Wave and the related agrarian structure of production over

less developed areas of the world. (site) The second wave was ushered in by way of the Industrial Revolution. This wave is constructed through common notions of standards, specialization, central management, and advantages of scale. These economies are considered developed and comprise the second wealth wave. the Third Wealth Wave. This wave is marked by “challenging the institutions and processes of The third wave recasts production, markets and societies. The functions trast, ethereal functions like designing, planning, managing and similar then raw muscle power. This is the profound change we are witnessing through globalization and its accompanying philosophies that are shaking the very core of society by radically altering the traditional order of the family structure, and relationships between opposing sectors of the economy. The end result of all this fundamental upheaval is a reordering of the lives

of the people who function in these disparate wealth systems. What type of future are we headed toward under this revolution? labor are all under radical mutations as tasks become super-specialized 2006)

“I believe the new and increasing changes taking place in the work environment can be catalyst for developing a new “work-typology”: this assumption lies at the foundation of my thesis.”

Our Digital Lives Our lives are increasingly becoming mediated by regulated of digital phenomena. Being digitally connected has become a synonymous with social interaction in both our (contemporary culture) private, and corporate lives. Maria Lehman said “each of us has more information in our brains than earlier generations ever dreamed of having and for the most part, we are happy with more information. More information means more freedom in every sense of the way and that gives us the ironic freedom of choosing to have less information. Technology may giveth, but it also can taketh away.” (LEHMAN, Maria Lorena)

people who will support, mentor, nurture, teach, advise and argue with

How are our digital lives impacting our perception of Space and Interaction? The advent of Internet has brought a myriad of possibilities to interact and interconnect interests, people and places. Subsequently it has changed the way we view, communicate, and interact with the world. It has also altered perception of architecture, from buildings, places, and spaces to artworks, and websites. The advent of architect and design websites such as ArchDaily, Archinect, Architizer, Wallpaper, etc. makes it possible to interconnect international, inter-generational individuals to a spectrum of opportunity once

Figure 4.

This diagram illustrates the difference between a fragmented and continuous or interconnectivity of modern day life and work.

etc.) and landscapes through the use of software such as Google Earth. Being “there” while remaining“ here. Virtual reality creates the illusion even more vivid.

13


15 Figure 6.


How can we through architecture and design create spaces as catalysts for activity, interaction, interconnectivity, and productivity? “Inventing The Organizations Of The 21st Century” – MIT review In a study titled Inventing the Organizations of the 21st Century, the MIT Sloan School of Management attempted to envision how these changes might produce new realities for both corporations and employees. New communication and production technologies have eliminated large numbers of human jobs, while simultaneously reordered organizational hierarchies. Outsourcing, temporary contract work, and project-oriented sequencing of work (as opposed to the task-isolated work of the assembly line) are all made possible through the speed and reliability of networked communications technology. Furthermore, mobile devices and ubiquitous communications infrastructures are allowing knowledge work to take place anywhere and at any time. The concept of work-life balance is obsolete, giving way to a work-life blend.

EVOLUTION OF WORK/LIFE RELATIONSHIP

Life

Work

Work

Life

Work %&'(

Life

Figure 8.

necessitated complete organizational restructuring favouring operational agility. The MIT study suggested that we are moving away from the large organizations of the 20th century, towards smaller organizations that instead

Freelancer

Medium Business

used by the entertainment industry (wherein small specialized groups assemble for the duration of a project) would become standard for all other industries. The economic pressures imposed by the latest global recession have accelerated this process. From the perspective of the employee, the rise of a free-agent-based, entrepreneurial mode of employment will have dramatic consequences on the organization of society. will need to actively pursue new venues for social interaction and networking (both real and virtual).

Start-Up

to name a few. Large-Organization

a new kind of workspace where, before too long, everybody knows your er on the lookout for versatility, and human contact in the workplace. Lacking the capital and staff to war ant a huge lease outlay, he prefers the energy that lacks such facilities as a printer, a reliable internet connection and guarFigure 9.

Figure 7.

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Theoretical Review

Permeability

Proximity “...proximity also refers to a social dimension: sets of distances

individual space

collective space

social phenomenon – the control of space. Where hierarchical authority restricts access to space, and controls the use of space, the space itself becomes a factor dividing society (FESTINGER, L., Schachter, S., & Bach, K., 1950). Conversly, when the access and use of space are widely shared, the space becomes a catalyst for the formation of social cohesion and shared values. “First, human beings like things that are familiar to them. Second, the more people come into contact with one another, the more interaction between individuals and groups, which ends up leading to liking and disliking between the groups or individuals. “ (EBBESSEN, E.B., Kjos, G.L., & Konecni, V.J., 1976)

considering has remained locked in an authoritarian regime of controlled space: my intention is to restructure and deepen this space.

familiarity safety

According to Henri Levebre; “(Social) space is a (social) product [...] the space thus produced also serves as a tool of thought and of action [...] in addition to being a means of production it is also a means of control, and hence of domination, of power.” (LEFEBVRE, H., 1974:26) To realise

connections

tion: “What they are, therefore, coincides with their production, both

Territorial Overlap

products that begin to shape social space, for Lefebvre. In the terms introduced by N.J. Habraken and K. Scheerlinck, the effect of space “deepens” as it becomes more “permeable.” (SCHEERLINCK, Kris W. B.) phological discourse about linear quantitative sequences of crossing boundaries: the designing or reading of depth is placed within a more delimiting boundaries on a physical, visual and territorial level. The way and intensity of sharing space is determining for depth value.” (SCHEERLINCK, Kris W. B.)

supportive functions deliminating boundaries/access

Let me illustrate how I interpreted these ideas into architectural relevance. Referring to the diagrams on the opposite page:

spacial overlap

collaboration each other as they become more familiar with each other, form connections(groupings), and then form the opportunity for collaborations.

Later I will demonstrate how I interpreted these ideas further into architectural relevance. its common quality, space must give recognition to the private and public facets of society, providing opportunity for people to gather together and to seclude themselves at other times, and provide intermediate zones or “buffer zones” between. This division of deep space into public and private, semi-public and semi private, must be considered sensitive-

In general, the tendency over time has been for space to deepen. In the

programmatic interdependancy

intimate

Figure 11.

personal

social

public

Figure 12.

visual, physical, territorial interconnectivity

Permeability and Territorial Overlap

19


Precedent Study Location: Rome, Flaminio, Italy Architect: Zaha Hadid Architects

ideas mentions previously. The architect mentioned that the museum is ‘not a object-container, but in order to create a dynamic and interactive space. the main goal of the project. Continuity of spaces makes it a suitable wall divisions or interruptions. By these elements; the concrete curved walls, suspended black staircases, open ceiling catching natural light, Zaha Hadid intended ‘a new -

Figure 15. um-zaha-hadid-architects)

-

meability and territorial overlap in how the spaces interrelate with each other three dimensionally. Users are simultaneously aware of the various space in a multi-orientational sense. The use of concrete, glass of steel which are inherently seen as rigid

I intend to apply the same space creation ideas in the project.

Figure 13.

Figure 14. um-zaha-hadid-architects)

-

21


Introduction to Site area in detail. As already mentioned, Paarl is divided in two ways, in one natural - mountain and river, in the other by socio political-Apartheid laws. The second form of division has been more intrusive.

The Berg River should be the center of urban life in Paarl, along with its historic Main Road. Many towns, worldwide, utilize their rivers as an activity corridor for public life. In Paarl, this is not the case and this project aims to breathe life back face around from looking inward towards the mountain, away from eastern Paarl and the greater Berg River Valley; the Berg River corridor development will encourage the town to look outward. 2. The socio-political laws and their effects. The advent of segregation left an urban blight on Paarl, like any South African town. The river was used as a wedge rather than as glue for the urban fabric. It effectively divides the previously advantaged west and previously disadvantaged east. To further cement this Apartheid-planning divide, industrial areas To dissolve the Apartheid urban construct and forge a cohesive urban fabric, this wedge needs to be sown back together. Not only must it be developed, it also must act as a transit corridor linking this very north-south linear urban entity. As Wellington and Paarl merge together, so transport pressures will mount

The chosen site is an urban park near the town center. The project intends to cept of Urban Stitching.

Figure 16.

The proposed site from underneath the bridge across Langenhoven Avenue

23


CONTEXT INVESTIGATION

LAN

LAND FORMS

3

rd

REGIONAL STRUCTURE

largest town in the Western Cape

TOWN OUTLINE

90,000

60,9

km

30,4

km

from Stellenbosch

from Cape Town CBD

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Figure 17.

25


Proposed Site

Figure 18.

27


EXISTING FIGURE GROUND VEHICULAR SYSTEMS MAIN CIRCULATION SECONDARY CIRCULATION

Figure 19.

Figure 20.

PEDESTRIAN SYSTEM HIGH VOLUME PEDESTRIAN MEDIUM VOLUME PEDESTRIAN LOW VOLUME PEDESTRIAN

A analysis showing the vehicular and pedestrian circulation systems in relation to the proposed site (hatched) (Source: Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning)

29


FIGURE GROUND

MAIN CIRCULATION SECONDARY CIRCULATION

Figure 21.

Figure 22. creating paths and circulation patterns

FABRIC MODULATION

VEHICULAR SYSTEMS

HIGH VOLUME PEDESTRIAN MEDIUM VOLUME PEDESTRIAN LOW VOLUME PEDESTRIAN

PEDESTRIAN SYSTEM

31


HETEROTOPIAS | PLACES OF SIGNIFICANCE METRORAIL-TRAIN STATION TRANSPORT HUB CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT

MOSQUE MOSQUE + YOUTH "HOSTEL"

BELLA VISTA CID PRECINCT

LaRochelle SPORTS FIELD

NEDBANK RESIDENCES

SPORTS FACILITIES OPEN PARK PAARL CIVIC CENTRE

OPEN FIELD MAJOR ACCESS ROUTE

POLICE + MAGISTRATE

FIRE STATION

preffered commercial (market) residential recreational industrial proposed site

ARBORETUM PARKLAND CORRIDOR

MAJOR TR AIN ROUT E

EXISTING SPORTS FIELDS PLANNED NEW WATERFRONT

LAND-USE | micro

MAJOR ACCESS ROUTE

EXISTING SPORTS FACILITIES

scale 1:5,000

scale 1:5,000 Figure 23.

A map showing the land-use on meso scale in relation to the proposed site. (Source: Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning)

Figure 24. nodes and interlinking them by means of visual or physical connections. (Source: Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning)

33


LONGITUDINAL SECITONS

25000

875750

100 YEAR FLOOD LINE

25000

75000

scale 1:10,000

scale 1:5,000

Figure 26.

Figure 25. od.(Source: Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning)

Longitudinal sections on macro and meso scale showing the scale of the landscape (Source: Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning)

-

35


taken around and on the site.

Figure 30.

The Paarl Civic Centre across the street from the proposed site; an iconic building in town.

Figure 29.

The Paarl Magistrates court.

Paarl has a rich architectural heritage of Cape Dutch era buildings, which forms the historic center of the town along the Main road. last 100 years. As you will notice, these buildings are clearly different from Cape Dutch styled architecture. This in a sense becomes the new “vernacular� around the site. I intent to address some of these buildings in this project in order to create a harmony and network between the different river banks and the buildings and functions on them.

Figure 27.

Figure 28.

37


material selection of my project.

Figure 31.

The Taal Monument by Jan van Wyk (source: moderndesign.org)

Figure 32. edited by author.)

39


41 Figure 33.

The Berg River riverbed 1km upstream from the proposed site.


43 Figure 34.


Proposed site: Park on CBD side

Riverbank

Berg River

Proposed site the for Boathouse: empty lot with large Blue gumtrees

Langenhoven Ave.

45


Architectural Potential Research of theory has shown me that a thoughtful use of space - by means of architectural structures - can provide a vibrant social space for a community. The development of “deep” space can cater for, and enhance, the work

in invigorating the community.

white

-

black

ing an architectural narrative from the research done.

2. Nodes, or points of interest, industry, recreational and others have been iden-

3. These “nodes” will be connected by means of visual or physical connections on, over and along the sites.

6. Possible overlapping and permeable programs will be analysed and devel-

Figure 35.

Figure 36.

A photo of a pedestrian bridge across the Berg River.

47


Nodes

Fields

Inherent responses: Processes

processes (the central cube and cables) to emphasize and interconnect them. processes, paths and space. employ in daily life. River) on which the site is located. It is essential that the corridor provide a practical, versatile concatenation of spaces that encourage the community to utilize the functions and activities on the site.

49


Woven Topologies

Figure 37.

(Source: DCFolklifeF-

Figure 38.

Physical Concept models

the River and link or “pull” the functions together, much like a crafts person would utilize when weaving a basket. The harvest basket and weaving process is seen as a natural tool to facilitate the architectural intent.

The art of weaving creates fascinating variegal, differentiating intricacies, and to me creates semiological interest and inspiration to interpret my intent to re-weave the town fabric. The models show my interpretation of woven topologies where I try to create architectural form from this abstract symbolism - weaving.

This idea of weaving the town and site as a “fabric”, a term often used to describe the grain, density, and infrastructure of a settlement, led me to the material – the site.

and levels. 51


this idea of “Urban Weaving” into architectural rel-

them. uing the promenade running along the river. Formalizing it and making it the “back bone” of the project.

53 Figure 39.


Precedent studies and implementation

55


Zaha Hadid Archiects, In this project, ZHA used Maya hair-dynamics to simulate minimised detour net. The path network was thus generated with a digital woolthread model. The set-up registers the multitude of incoming streets and bundles them into larger roads affording larger parcels.

as the two fundamental processes that are involved in all processes of urbanprocess. He distinguished distancing and attractive occupations. For distancing

using this simulation. I intend to develop a similar process in order to program the site on a larger scale.

tancing and attractive occupation whereby the polystyrene chips cluster around Frei, 2009, p.45) The result closely resembles the typical settlement patterns found in our real urban landscapes. Frei Otto, Occupation with simultaneous distancing and attracting forces, Institute for Lightweight Structures (ILEK), Stuttgart, Germany, 1992. Analogue

been applied to his urban simulation work. The model shown integrates both distancing and attractive occupations by using polystyrene chips that cluster

Frei Otto, Apparatus for computing minimal path systems, Institute for Lightpath system, that is, the system connects a distributed set of given points, thus the overall length of the path system is minimised. Each point is reached but there is a considerable imposition of detours between some pairs of points. The system is a tree (branching system) without any redundant connections. Marek Kolodziejczyk, Wool-thread model to compute optimised detour path networks, Institute for Lightweight Structures (ILEK), Stuttgart, 1991. (KOLODZIEJCZYK, Marek, 1991, p.139) Depending on the adjustable parameter of the

maintaining a low average detour factor. (SCHUMACHER, Patrik)

Figure 40.

Wool path studies (source: ZHA.com)

Figure 41.

<No intersecting link>

Frei Otto, Occupation with simultaneous distancing and attracting forces, Institute for Lightweight Structures (ILEK), Stuttgart, Germany, 1992.

57


nodes and interconnecting them to form the base of my urban framework.

generate inter-connectivity and vitality if they where to be connected, either physically, by means of paths, or visually.

to enforce my concept of Urban Stitching. This “soft grid� generates a basis for

density

importance

trees

hazard

built

other paths

other nodes

INFRASTUCTURE LINKS LOGIC DERIVED FROM RHIZOME THEORY

attraction/repel

obsticles

LINK INFRASTRUCTURE: REVERSE SEGREGATION Shortest distances between nodes are calculated by parameters such as importance, volume) in orderto determine connection across the site and integration with existing paths and nodes. These links create a maleable grid integrating lateral conenctionsand becomes the underlaying framework for the project. These could be interpretted into walkways, visual axis, or desnity gradations.

IDENTIFY NODES Shortest distances between nodes are calculated by parameters such as importance, volume) in orderto determine connection across the site and integration with existing paths and nodes. These links create a maleable grid integrating lateral conenctionsand becomes the underlaying framework for the project. These could be interpretted into walkways, visual axis, or desnity gradations.

59 The wool thread simulation using Grasshopper to form a soft grid. Figure 44.

shortest distance

PATH DEFINITION

These path will represent either physical or visual connections between points of

NODE

NODE

interest and infrastructure and interconnecting them with foot- and cycle paths, as well as creating visual connections.

Figure 43.

IDENTIFY NODES

-

WAYFINDING Facilitating and orientation by setting up views LANDMARKS Serving as landmarks to individual districts TRANSPORT LSAervNingDasnModeAsonRtheKS transport network Serving as landmarks to individual districts FACILITATORS Facilitating local development TRANSPORT Serving as nodes on the transport network VIEWS Creating views from and towards the site Facilitating local development

Create place, which blurs the boundaries between work and play, inside and outside, public and private.

Strategy key. Figure 42.


Privacy These analyses was done in order to identify possible “overlapping” or complimentary functions within the choses building typologies. This idea is an interpretation of “Territorial Overlap” as discussed in the theoretical review. Since the intent is to create vibrant and dynamic spaces I thought it would be important and helpful to analyze spaces and functions in relation to certain variables in order to satisfy this intent. The criteria is The PROXIMITY of the spaces and the COMPLEXITY

tinuous. This will interconnect spaces, and in effect people. The intent of this is to connect people, and give opportunity for collaboration and innovation.

public

private

public

Private

Public

private

private public

Hierachial/traditional

required in the spaces.

Rhizome/Permeability

by means of the design, interconnectivity of the adjacent spaces, the amount of light and view required, etc. Figure 45.

This was done in order to develop the Urban Framework, as well the

PRIVATE PRIVATE

PROGRAM ANALYSES

Privacy diagram used to plan spaces

PRIVATE PRIVATE

Figure 46.

Territorial overlap interpreted into the relation of space to each

PRIVATE

SPACE ANALYSES

AUDITORIUM

large meeting

STUDENT ACCOMODATION CHANGING

SKYPE LOUNGE

medium meeting skype lounge

WORKSHOP MAINTENANCE

WC

RECEPTION DAYCARE PLAY AREA CYCLE RENTAL

COWORKING AREA

CLUBROOM

priv. call

COMMUNAL AREA

freelancer

CAR RENTAL

BOATHOUSE PUBLIC PUBLIC

small start-up small meeting

RIVER BATH

RESTAURANT

COWORK OFFICE

skype lounge

OUTDOOR SPORTS COURT

COFFEE BAR

PARKING LOT

GYM

KITCHEN

medium start-up LOOSE

COURTYARDS

MEETING ROOM

STORAGE SAUNA

SHOWER SIMPLE BASIC

LIBRARY

COMPLEX COMPLEX

BASIC SIMPLE

KITCHEN

TECHNICAL ROOM

COMPLEX COMPLEX

STORAGE

HISTORICAL DISPLAY

TIGHT

CONVERSATION SPACES

AMPHITHEATRE

COWORK OFFICE PUBLIC PUBLIC

PUBLIC

61


OUTDOOR SPORTS COURT CAR RENTAL

SHOWER

SAUNA

CHANGING PARKING

GYM

PUBLIC SPACE RIVER BATH

STORAGE

CYCLE RENTAL

Gymnasium

CYCLE/PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS

TEDx STYLE OPEN LECTURES

CONVERSATION SPACES

SKYPE ROOMS

DAYCARE

AMPHITHEATRE

PLAY AREA HISTORICAL DISPLAY

Car/Cycle rental

PRIVATE KITCHEN

SOCIAL WORKPLACE

AUDITORIUM EVENT SPACE

BOAT LANDING

WC

Caffe

STAFF

WORKSPACES

SHOWER

Boathouse

WC

WORKSHOP/MAINTENANCE

SKATE PARK

Restaurant

MEETING SPACE

SPORTS FACILITIES

PAVILLION

Prominade Park

COMMUNAL AREA STORAGE

PARK

Complex Variegal Order

LIBRARY

WC

MEETING ROOM

RESTUARANT

ADMIN KITCHEN BACK OF HOUSE

FOCUS Figure 47.

A mind map showing the relation of spaces to each other.

TALK

THINK

MEET AND EAT

CONNECT

PROJECT LOUNGE

PROJECT WORK

63


Brief and accommodation Client

From the above mentioned analyses the brief was derived. Rather than reproducing the spatial models that accommodated the generic models of the past, I am looking to produce models that anticipate future conditions.

Similar to my theory of interconnectivity of people and spaces, perhaps this could be translated into possible funding for such a project. This could be done by means of combining traditional property investing with Crowdfunding.

Anchoring the Corridor, and consisting of infrastructure, open space, project with the scale and thrust required to initiate a profound urban transformation and coalesce a robust social workplace vernacular. Levdistrict, engage the town through open space, enhance public transit and “Zip-bike� station, and create a cultural and retail node including restaurants, river bath, and outdoor theatre. dium start-up businesses and freelancers could base themselves with shared social and support facilities. To place an emphasis on a personalised, homely environment to encourage interaction and collaboration between the different tenants, and for the space to act as a local hub for other local businesses to take advantage of the meeting and catering facilities.

crowd-sourced fundraising) is the collective effort of individuals who network and pool their money, usually via the Internet, to support efforts initiated by other people or organizations. (ORDANINI, A. et al., 2011) Crowdfunding is used in support of a wide variety of activities, including disaster relief, citizen journalism, support of artists by fans, political campaigns, startup company funding, motion picture promosearch, and civic projects. (HOLLOW, M, 2012) This could in the near future perhaps entire buildings could be more on their investments as possible.

As mentioned earlier; the users of this project will be wide ranging - as I will be facilitating pedestrian movement, recreational facilities and an

neurs and solo creatives looking for a place to work without having to spend money on infrastructure such as printing, waste and energy while also creating the opportunity for new individuals or groups within the diverse network. The Boathouse which will comprise of a Canoe Club, Restaurant and cycle of the project. Tourists and residents will have access to the public promenades, restaurant, river bath and amenities. Since there is a large number of commuters living in Paarl and working in the surrounding towns or Cape Town, this project is meant to be a workspace for these individuals who can substitute the commute for working in Paarl a part of the time and only commuting when necessary.

The program will be discussed in the page that follows:

65


es in and around the development. Creating a myriad of opportunities for people vention.

1.

A variety of work situations for about 50-80 people

1.

A full restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating

2.

Canoe Clubhouse to house the new facilities. - Kitchenette - Changing rooms, showers, toilets and lockers - Club meeting space - Boat storage - Space for boat repairs - Storage

3.

Daycare - Staff room - Staff Toilets - Open play and learn space

- Collaboration spaces - Media rooms - Skype lounge for digital communication - Larger conference spaces - A small auditorium for larger functions

with their work. Others want to part of a busy atmosphere. We had to cater for

A gradation of workspaces; from open, public work scenario to private rent-able

impromptu communication.

2. A deli-style cafe for small lunches, combined with a balcony that could double as a pavilion that overlooks the Berg River and outdoor auditorium.

tional workstations and meeting rooms. Variety of interactive working situations

3.

Parking for 132 people. - Storage

collaboration spaces. The Boathouse, on the opposite side of the riverbank will house a variety of supportive functions to increase the life cycle of the project as well as the inter-

4. A promenade continuing along the Berg River and interconnecting the river banks by pedestrian bridges.

4.

Outdoor sports facilities such as a basketball court.

5.

Toilets, changing rooms and lockers for the users.

5.

Enough parking for these

6. nades.

Public toilets for possible music concerts on the prome-

to substitute the energy usage.

FOCUS

TALK

THINK

MEET AND EAT

CONNECT

PROJECT LOUNGE

PROJECT WORK 67


Urban Framework This Framework was done by 34 Degree Design. It is a proposal done in 2013 and is thorough enough to use as a staring point for this project. I

Proposed site

Proposed site

69 Figure 48.


1 A1

CHANGE GYM

W O RK SH O P

PROMINADE

PROMINADE

PAVILLION

LANDSCAPE APHITHEATRE

balcony

RESTAURANT cl

CH EN AUDITORIUMS service

SERVICE

lower level

KIT

PARKING

auditorium

CIRCULATION

entrance

retail?

pa rk in

EXISTING NODE: PLACE OF WORSHIP

lower level

KITCHEN services

TERRACED PATIO TERRACE/COURTYARD

RESTAURANT

open kitchen

INFORMAL DISCUSSION SPACES

PARKING

cl

PROMINADE

PARKING/RENTAL

KITCHEN

ORICAL UNG E HIST LAY /LO DISP

SERVICE

river wall

OM

GARBAGE/GAS

1 A1

BRO

outdoor sports court

CLU

1 A1 LIBRARY

ACCESS FROM STREET LEVEL

P

SPACES GROUP COLAB

ACCESS ONTO GREEN ROOF FROM STREET LEVEL

KINDERGARTEN

OFFICES

LANDSCAPE

site entry

complexity, not complicated

OFFICES

RIVER PROMONADE

PRIVATE

pavillion

1 A1

G USIN NT HO STUDE

ST O RA G E P

g

COMMERCIAL

SOCIAL OFFICE

PARKING

BOATHOUSE AND

RESIDENCES

PERFORMANCE CENTER

LIBRARY

PROMINADE AND AMPHITHEATRES 71

WALKWAY


Precedent Studies

are currently obstructed by the buildings). The surface of the grand stair will be landscaped with grass, reducing the solar heat gain in the summer, and in the winter it will double as a sled hill.

restaurants on the pier. Fruits and veggies would be grown in tall, sculptural pillars, which could be viewed from aerial boardwalks. The team also amphitheater, lifting one corner of the pier and lowering the other to provide horizon views and bring visitors closer to water level. Beneath the lifted amphitheater there would be a restaurant overlooking the water.


ordering and framing of human communicative interaction. perience nature and aquatic activities.

75


Figure 49.

gave great views over the canal.” (Peach, 2012) where small to medium start-up businesses and freelancers could base themselves with shared social and support facilities. They want- In this project the work and restaurant areas blend to create harmoed to place an emphasis on a personalised, homely environment to encourage interaction and collaboration between the different ten- archive and large copy areas that had become obsolete following the ants, and for the space to act as a local hub for other local businesses introduction of a paperless culture. to take advantage of the meeting and catering facilities. was going to inform their future developments, and a key part of the become the main focus of dynamic, non-territorial work. Providing project was to develop a unique visual identity for the concept space. comfortable informal meeting and project spaces with retreat areas - for quiet, individual work. “It became, in effect, a sort of business club for the whole company (of which everyone was a member).” and kitchen to cater for all 50 tenants. We also designed seating and (Peace,2012) work areas for people to work and hold informal meetings in, thus transforming it into a vibrant, working space. Installing fully glazed

SOCIAL SPACE

COLLAB -ORATIVE

50% of communication 50% of areas landscapes

Repro-services informal Repro-services meeting spaces

Reception

individual work

informal meeting spaces

Reception

seating kitchen for 50

non-territorial work

seating work areas

lounge

restaurants

CONFER -ENCING

SOCIAL

PRIVATE

COLLAB -ORATIVE

project spaces

retreat areas

PRIVATE

retreat areas

library

COLLAB -ORATIVE

SOCIAL SPACE

restaurants SPACE

project spaces

COLLAB -ORATIVE

CONFER -ENCING COLLAB -ORATIVE

CONFER -ENCING

informal meeting

business club meeting rooms

library café

individual work

informal meeting

business club

meeting rooms café

communication landscapes

non-territorial work

work areas

kitchen for 50

PRIVATE

SOCIAL SPACE areas

CONFER -ENCING

lounge

Figure 50.

Mind map of spatial organization

spaces Herengracht spaces Herengracht

Figure 51.

Mind map of spatial organization

Figure 52.

Design Application: This is how the spaces will be organized

vitravitra

77 Spaces Heringraght (Source:


This section will illustrate how the theoretical investigation combined with

Design Development

79


These are a few of the sketches I made during the design development process of the project.

81


Large programmatic anchors promote cross-site movement as discussed earboathouse(restaurant, daycare and canoe club).

1. maximizing riverfront

2. orient correctly

3. create connections

Private Public

Nodes

Private

6. interconnect with context

Figure 53.

5. create promonade

4. optimal views

83


OF6 0.210

116 3235

4000 2929 2929

2929 4000

10759

BH1.S 0.311

0

85


These images shows a few of the design stages this project went through as it developed during the design development. I used programs such options and ideas and to test them against environmental and brief constraints. -

cate or integrate it on computer. This makes it possible for me to remain ing and function to every line that is drawn.

87


“Whatever is iconic must be perfect, whatever is perfect must be lucid, whatever is lucid must be simple, and whatever is simple must be bold.� - Reiulf Ramstad

Presentation Drawings

89


PROMENADE PROMENADE

OF6 0.210

VEHICHLE SITE

116

PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

3235

4000

GREEN ROOF

2929 2929

PARK

2929 4000

RIVER POOL 10759

PARKING DAYCARE

PARKING

CANOE CLUB RESTAURANT RAMP TO STREET OPEN AIR STAGE TERRACED SEATING

BH1.S 0.311

0

LANGENHOVEN AVE

91


0 UP

-3500 UP

-300

DN

n e rch a 1 0 2

-300 DN -3500

-2216 0

-1147 DN

1430 -300

-387

93


OF6 0.210

OF2 0.212

-3500

OF2 Diagram 0.009

-300

-3500

0 UP

0 UP

-167

DN

-300

-3500

95


OF6 0.210

0.200 2.000

3 4

OF2OF2 Diagram 0.212 0.009

4000

0 4000

0 DN

2 0.200 2.000

97


OF2 0.212

OF2 0.212

99


Figure 55.

Design Application: This is how the spaces will be organized

SOCIAL SPACE

COLLAB -ORATIVE

PRIVATE

SOCIAL SPACE

COLLAB -ORATIVE

CONFER -ENCING COLLAB -ORATIVE

CONFER -ENCING

COLLAB -ORATIVE

SOCIAL SPACE

CONFER -ENCING

SOCIAL SPACE

PRIVATE

COLLAB -ORATIVE PRIVATE CONFER -ENCING

101


TALK FOCUS

PROJECT WORK

THINK

PROJECT LOUNGE

CONNECT PROJECT WORK

MEET AND EAT

CONNECT CONNECT

CONNECT

103


1 0 2 n e rch a

DN

BH2 0.310

BH3 0.310

BH1.S BH1 3.004 0.311

BH4 0.310

105


BH4 0.310

BH3 0.310

BH2 0.310

BH2 0.310

BH3 0.310

BH4 0.310

BH1 3.004

1

2 3

Roof construction: 200 mm extensive 4 planting and substrate layer, 30mm 5 drainage layer, 100 mm concrete 6 topping, 30 mm expanded polystyrene 7 thermal insulation, rapid-curing polyurethane seal, highly compacted 8 exposed concrete roof 450 mm concrete column Curtain wall system

Cast in-situ concrete wall Concrete walkway Boat launch Terraced seating Reinforced concrete bridge

107


109


111


113


overview of all the activities and function in the project; from the people walking and running along the promenade, a band busking on the stage becomes part of the development as physical connector and visual vantage point to be used as a pavilion.

115


PV ROOF CANOPY

PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

TERRACED SEATING

OPEN AIR STAGE PROMENADE

tered from the sun, this would be the perfect spot for a sun downer. The green roof at the Cafe could even serve as a screening wall for media. 117


119


nearly all the way across the development.vv 121


This is the riverbath, a structured pool as part of the terrace.

123


During this thesis I have clearly achieved the goals I set out to as described in the introduction. I have:

the best manner, “common ground” for people to work and play; an active, vibrant riverfront alive with residents and tourists. This is done through structuring the riverbanks, creating “anchors” that promote cross-site movement and activities and interconnecting programs and functions within the development as well as the neighbourhoods. Not only do I believe that a project such as this could be a new direction for Paarl, but in many ways a new beginning for Paarl.

125


Technical Report

127


129


Concrete pile and pile cap foundations are used to support ing. Since the buildings will be constructed on a riverbank, this would probably be the best solution in terms of the foun-

The landscaping in this project plays a major role in linking the various functions across the site as well as creating opportunities for people to interact and collaborate. By structuring the riverbank by means of terraces, low benches and gabion walls, it protects the river from harmful

are transferred to the foundations.

The terraces creates spaces for visitors and users of the buildings to enjoy the park and put their feet in the water on a warm day. Indigenous Fynbos will be planted on the green roof and integrated with the site landscaping. Many indigenous shade and fruit trees will be planted across the site to create shade

Structured Terraces

Pile Foundations

131


Services

Power Generation

Shared services cores and corridors allow co-location of energy, water and waste services.

One of the objectives of the project are focused on reducing the use of electricity by generating its own energy on an on-site Central Plant, provide open green spaces for clients

cores are located on the South side, as indicated. This localizes access and services, garbage collection, power- and water connections and sewage connections.

environmental sustainability goals through integrated design and development. The power generation is provided mainly eration while blocking solar gain. Energy will be stored in a

The intensive green roof structure has voids which serves as service corridors for water, power and air ducts. (refer to detail )

the green roof that is too low for human occupation. The power generation could in the future be further enhanced by hydroelectricity generated by means of the river itself.

Riverbath Public walkway Parking

service core

Daycare

Canoe Clubhouse

Pedestrian bridge

Restaurant

service core

service core

Berg river Promenade

La

ng

en

ho ve n

Av eB

r id

Cafe Photovoltaic Roof Canopy

service core

service core

ge

133


CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAM

1 2

As mentioned in the Landscaping Program section; the Titleon-site land3 Green Roofs a Sustainable Strategy 0.213 part of an intensive green roof assembly. The use of a green Program Number roof has a few purposes: making the building blend into the 000044 landscape as well as providing insulation and decrease solar heat gain from the harsh Paarl climate. Description This program introduces audiences to the many The soil and built in water retention grids provided retain rainwater - roofs. Drawing on benefits by garden minimizing the use for irrigation as35 well as acting as a water years of experience in Europe and North - shown to aid in the America, garden roofs have reduction of urban storage heat islands, improve storm ed in the integrated gutters and stored in rainwater water management, protect roofing membranes storages are returned to the river. Inand dryincrease seasonsthe theamount roof canof usable space. The course reviews typical components and installabe irrigated by means of the river and an automatic irrigation tion methods of a garden roof. system. Program Categories 04 Environment/Sustainability 08 Performance Technology

3 4 5 6 7

Figure 57.

Typical garden roof Typical Green Roof Assembly (source: www.Zinco.com)

8 Gutter powder-coated stainless steel smoke 9 flap in frame 10 16 mm laminated safety glass, point-fixed 11 Wood panel wall 12 Eaves wedge: milky-white waterproof 13 coating rapid-curing polyurethane seal 14 Drip-edge 15 Roof construction: 200 mm extensive 16 planting and substrate layer, 30mm 17 drainage layer, 100 mm concrete topping, 30 mm expanded polystyrene thermal insulation, rapid-curing polyurethane seal, highly compacted exposed concrete roof

Service corridor stainless-steel balustrade Roof terrace: 10mm ceramic tiles in bed of mortar 450 mm concrete column Hvac air vent recessed light fitting Polished concrete Concrete walkway Pile cap Structural foundation

assembly

Length One hour, generally presented over lunch at the participants facility 1 2

Credits One Learning Unit HSW: Yes SD (Sustainable Design): Yes Contact American Hydrotech, Inc. INFO@hydrotechusa.com www.hydrotechusa.com

3 4 5 6 7

Installed extensive garden roof assembly

8 Gutter powder-coated stainless steel smoke 9 flap in frame 10 16 mm laminated safety glass, point-fixed 11 Wood panel wall 12 Eaves wedge: milky-white waterproof 13 coating rapid-curing polyurethane seal 14 Drip-edge 15 Roof construction: 200 mm extensive 16 planting and substrate layer, 30mm 17 drainage layer, 100 mm concrete topping, 30 mm expanded polystyrene thermal insulation, rapid-curing polyurethane seal, highly compacted exposed concrete roof

Service corridor stainless-steel balustrade Roof terrace: 10mm ceramic tiles in bed of mortar 450 mm concrete column Hvac air vent recessed light fitting Polished concrete Concrete walkway Pile cap Structural foundation

• • •

Figure 56. tor-center-112.jpg

Stormwater retention calculations

• •

135 -

Figure 58.

Typical Green Roof assembly (source: adapted from www.zinco.com)


3 0.213

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 Gutter powder-coated stainless steel smoke 9 flap in frame 10 16 mm laminated safety glass, point-fixed 11 Wood panel wall 12 Eaves wedge: milky-white waterproof 13 coating rapid-curing polyurethane seal 14 Drip-edge 15 Roof construction: 200 mm extensive 16 planting and substrate layer, 30mm 17 drainage layer, 100 mm concrete topping, 30 mm expanded polystyrene thermal insulation, rapid-curing polyurethane seal, highly compacted exposed concrete roof

Service corridor stainless-steel balustrade Roof terrace: 10mm ceramic tiles in bed of mortar 450 mm concrete column Hvac air vent recessed light fitting Polished concrete Concrete walkway Pile cap Structural foundation

137


Here is a summary of the Environmental pro-active strategies applied in this project in order to increase the sustainability, longevity and viplanation of each aspect: hausted through high level modulating louvres. Double glazed spectrally selective facade to provide transparency but reduce solar gain and heat transfer. Cold air convection from the Berg River. Water from landscaping captured and piped to central water collection and treat-

3:00 PM

services corridor to allow co-location of energy, water and waste services -

ment by-product for fertilising landscaping. Natural water treatment greenhouse system to purify grey water for use in non-potable applications Green facade to reduce solar gain. Vacuum toilets to reduce water use to views. Photovoltaic roof canopy over parking to offset energy use.

the buildings, through integrated air supply and return channels within

Secure bicycle, storage, showers and lockers for clients and visitors.

W N

rainwater and from the river. Vacuum waste collection system will use pneumatic tubes to collect organic waste, co-mingled recyclables and general waste. Organic waste processing using heated drying process produces soil amend-

7:54 PM

hot air return cool air outlet

S 5:33 AM

E

rain water collection

renewable energy from the photovoltaic roof canopy and used to support energy input.

December 25 139


141


F6 000

UP

UP

DN 1 0 2 n e rch a

DN 1000

BH2 3.010

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0

0 100

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00 10 0 100 0

0

-1000

-30 00

0

-1000

-20 00

-30 00

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100


rch a n e e 2 1 0

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0.200 2.000 1

OF6 3.000

-300

16.89° OF2 3.001

-300

3 4

163.11°

0.200 2.000

-300

-225 0 -300

-300

-228

-3500

0 UP

0

0

UP

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DN 0.200 2.000

4 3

-262

-460 -1220 -1600 -1980 -225

-228

-2360 -2740 -3120

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OF6 3.000

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OF2 Diagram 0.009

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-3500

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0.200 2.000


Elevations OF2 3.001

71.3 7°

3.88°

3.13°

OF2 Diagram 0.009

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4.15°

151


BH4 3.010

BH2 3.010

BH3 3.010

BH4 3.010

BH3 3.010

BH2 3.010

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2 3.000

1

2 3 4 5

Roof construction: 200 mm extensive planting and substrate layer, 30mm drainage layer, 100 mm concrete topping, 30 mm expanded polystyrene thermal insulation, rapid-curing polyurethane seal, highly compacted exposed concrete roof. At least 2% slope Compacted backfill earth 450 mm reinforced concrete column Curtain wall system Wood panel wall

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Frameless glass balustrade Polished concrete Suspended ceiling Hanging light fitting reinforced concrete floor Roof terrace: 10mm ceramic tiles in bed of mortar 500mm reinforced concrete retaining wall Concrete walkway Pile cap Pile foundation

1 3.002

155


2 8.000

1 8.000

157


3 8.000

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8

Gutter powder-coated stainless steel smoke flap in frame 16 mm laminated safety glass, point-fixed Wood panel wall Eaves wedge: milky-white waterproof coating rapid-curing polyurethane seal Drip-edge Roof construction: 200 mm extensive planting and substrate layer, 30mm drainage layer, 100 mm concrete topping, 30 mm expanded polystyrene thermal insulation, rapid-curing polyurethane seal, highly compacted exposed concrete roof. At least 2% slope Service corridor

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

stainless-steel balustrade Roof walkway 450 mm reinforced concrete column Hvac air vent recessed light fitting Polished concrete Concrete walkway Pile cap Reinforced concrete foundation Fynbos or other indigenous planting

159


2 1 0 n e rch a

BH2 3.010

0.300 2.100

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0.300 2.100 4

1

BH3 3.010

0.300 2.100

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167


BLUM, Andrew. 2011. Here but Not Here. [online]. [Accessed February 2013]. Available from World Wide Web: < HYPERLINK

Figure 59. Figure 1. Image of the Berg River Figure 60. Figure 2. A map showing land use in and around Paarl. Clearly can be seen how the Berg River divides the town into two “halves” Figure 61. Figure 3. Photograph of the Berg River, taken on the banks at Sunset Figure 62.

-

here” digitalurbanis.ms. [online]. [Accessed February 2013]. Available -

Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning) Figure 82. Figure 26. Longitudinal sections on macro and meso scale showing the scale of the landscape (Source: Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning) Figure 83. Figure 27. A satellite image showing the con-

overlap-of-social-media-and-architecture-in-urban) > Figure 63.

EBBESSEN, E.B., Kjos, G.L., & Konecni, V.J. 1976. Spatial Ecology: Its effects on the choice of friends and enemies. Journal of

Bibliography

List of Figures

FRESCURA, F. 2012. DECONSTRUCTING THE APARTHEID CITY. [online]. [Accessed Sep 2013]. Available from World Wide

-

urban-issues-apartheid-city.html > HABRAKEN, N.J. 1998. The Structure of the Ordinary. Cambridge : MIT Press. HOLLOW, M. 2012. Crowdfunding and Civic Society in Europe: A -

line]. [Accessed 2013]. Available from World Wide Web: < HY-

LEFEBVRE, H. 1974. The Production of Space. Blackwell: LEHMAN, Maria Lorena. How Social Media Impacts Architectural Perception. [online]. [Accessed Fegruary 2013]. Available from new Agenda. 52. ORDANINI, A., L. MICELI, M. PIZZETTI, and A. PARASURAMAN. 2011. Crowd-funding: Transforming customers into investors through innovative service platforms. Journal of Service Management 22 (4). meability and Territorial Boundaries in Urban Projects.. [online].

-

SCHUMACHER, P. 2012. Patrickschumacher. [online]. [Accessed Apr 2013]. Available from World Wide Web: < HYPERLINK

STANEK, Lukasz Henri Lefebvre on Space: Architecture, Urban Research, and the Production of Theory, University of Minnesota

Doubleday.

An illustration describing the Idea of

blogspot.com) Figure 64. tion (source: au.wiley.com) Figure 65.

Prometheus Books. FESTINGER, L., Schachter, S., & Bach, K. 1950. Social pressures in informal groups. New York: Harper.

Figure 6.

-

pre-industrial revolution relationships. The second showing how life was separated. The third during the digital (current) age as Figure 66.

Figure 7.

a diagram showing how individuals

certain amount of time. Small teams could collaborate to form larger organizations. Figure 67. Figure 68. Figure 12. Permeability and Territorial Overlap Figure 69. ha-hadid-architects) Figure 70. ha-hadid-architects) Figure 71. ha-hadid-architects) Figure 72. Figure 16. The proposed site from underneath the bridge across Langenhoven Avenue Figure 73. analyses Figure 74. site, (source: Google Earth, 2013) Figure 75. ground density in relation to the proposed site (hatched in center). (Source: Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning) Figure 76. Figure 20. A analysis showing the vehicular and pedestrian circulation systems in relation to the proposed site (hatched) (Source: Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning) Figure 77. masses on macro scale . Note how the Berg River (in black) divides the town. (Source: Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning) Figure 78. Figure 22. An analyses showing the mentioned the site and vehicular access is very informative to this project, as linking different points could be a driver in creating paths and circulation patterns Figure 79. Figure 23. A map showing the land-use on meso scale in relation to the proposed site. (Source: Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning) Figure 80. Figure 24. A map identifying “nodes” of interest interlinking them by means of visual or physical connections. (Source: Adapted from a map by Paarl Town Planning) Figure 81. Figure 25. A map showing the 100 year

WET, A. de. 2013. Case Study: The Berg River – Reconnecting the urban fabric of Paarl. [online]. [Accessed 31 June -

Figure 84. Figure 30. The Paarl Civic Centre across the street from the proposed site; an iconic building in town. Figure 85. Figure 29. The Paarl Magistrates court. Figure 86. moved as result of a planned waterfront on the site. Figure 87. Figure 31. The Taal Monument by Jan van Wyk (source: moderndesign.org) Figure 88. Figure 32. The Paarl Civic Centre (source: edited by author.) Figure 89. Figure 33. The Berg River riverbed 1km upstream from the proposed site. Figure 90. Figure 34. A pedestrian bridge across the Berg River, further up the river. Figure 91. tonemapped.tif Figure 92. Figure 36. A photo of a pedestrian bridge across the Berg River. Figure 93. Figure 37. (Source: DCFolklifeFFigure 94. Figure 38. Physical Concept models Figure 95. “Urban Weawing” Figure 96. Figure 40. <No intersecting link> Figure 97. Figure 41. <No intersecting link> Figure 98. Figure 42. Strategy key. Figure 99. analysis Figure 100. Figure 44. The wool thread simulation using Grasshopper to form a soft grid. Figure 101. Figure 45. Privacy diagram used to plan spaces Figure 102. Figure 46. Territorial overlap interpreted into the relation of space to each other Figure 103. Figure 47. A mind map showing the relation of spaces to each other. Figure 104.

Figure 105.

Figure 49.

Spaces Heringraght (Source:

Figure 106. Figure 107. Figure 108.

Figure 50. Figure 51. Figure 52.

Mind map of spatial organization Mind map of spatial organization Design Application: This is how the

Figure 109.

Figure 53.

These are the steps I went about

Figure 110.

Figure 55.

Design Application: This is how the

Figure 111.

Figure 56.

A green roof with a walkway. -

Figure 112. Figure 57. Typical Green Roof Assembly 169 (source: www.Zinco.com)


Abstract As social beings people constantly interact with one another. N.J. Habraken (HABRAKEN, N.J., 1998) has pointed out how our sense of emotional well being is fostered through our continuous visual and physical interaction, and has emphasized the role of architecture in promoting this sense. Patrick Shumacher (SCHUMACHER, P., 2012) mentions succinctly that “Architecture is the facilitation of human communication processes.” These writers are representative of a general consensus that architecture is greatly instrumental in developing and enhancing communication, and in contribution towards the vibrancy of a community. This thesis is motivated by these ideas. I have concentrated on Paarl, which has been a town divided by natural barriers, and by Apartheid-period segregation town planning (Fescura, F). My intention with this project is to assess these barriers, and propose an architectural construct to overcome these barriers, and replace the instruments of division with new possibilities of vibrant communication. This renewal is to be achieved through:

“fabric” of the town in the best manner.

an active, vibrant riverfront alive with residents and tourists.


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