DICHOTOMIA: AN URBAN CHANGE FOR ATHLONE POWER STATION THROUGH RETHINKING SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE by John Elonga

DICHOTOMIA: AN URBAN CHANGE FOR ATHLONE POWER STATION THROUGH RETHINKING SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE

John-Alphonse Elonga M.Arch (prof) 2020 Design Dissertation

Dichotomia: An Urban Change for Athlone Power Station Through Rethinking Social Infrastructure John-Alphonse Elonga

Supervisor: Alta Steenkamp Co-supervisor: Simone Le Grange This dissertation is presented as part fulfilment of the degree of Master of Architecture (Professional) in the School of Architecture, Planning and Geomatics, University of Cape Town. December 2020 I hereby: a. grant the University free license to reproduce the above dissertation in whole or in part, for the purpose of research. b. Declare that: (i) The dissertation is my own unaided work, both in conception and execution, and that apart from the normal guidance of my supervisors, I have received no assistance apart from that stated below: XXXXX (ii) Except as stated below, neither the substance or any part of the dissertation has been submitted for a degree in the University or any other university. (iii) I am now presenting the dissertation for examination for the degree of Master of Architecture (Professional)

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Signature ______________________________ 2

FIGURE 1.1 [RIGHT]: The brutal conceptual perspective 01. By Author (2020).

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Acknowledgment

I Hereby acknowledge the National Research Foundation (NRF) for the financial grant awarded to me for the purpose of this research year towards a Masters of Architecture (professional). I would like to give thanks to all those who have supported me along this journey, especially close friends, loved ones and dedicated supervisors.

FIGURE 1.2 [RIGHT] CONVEYOR: The brutal conceptual perspective 02. By Author (2020).

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to address the current

The study will be looking at the notion of adaptive reuse

disconnection of hard infrastructure with society. The

through the epistemologies of hard and soft infrastructure.

study explores the idea that ‘social infrastructure’ could

Throughout the study, it is suggested that an integrated

develop an urban change through its reimagining to

social infrastructure can position the urban into the building

be an integration (and simultaneity) of ‘hard’ and ‘soft’

and permit the building to become the city. This means

infrastructure, to form a new perception of what social

the combination of society with its service, mechanical

infrastructure should be and help guide it in a sustainable

infrastructure of factories - not deemed to be social – may

direction. In this way, programmes considered to be both

well result in an urban change that is not limited to just the

of ‘soft’ infrastructure and ‘hard’ infrastructure, that do

spatial change. The outcome is for a rethought retrofitting

not occur together in most design, meet in the centre

that does not neglect the hard infrastructure but rather

to form a holistic and true social infrastructure that will

views it as an opportunity to design buildings that interact

influence the ways of future design.

with the public and environment.

The purpose for this notion of a working public architecture or an integrated social infrastructure is to acknowledge the hard infrastructure, more specifically factories in South Africa, and make these service buildings more useful and multifunctional than just their utilitarian function. The argument is built using AbdouMaliq Simone and Henri Lefebvre’s literature work on ‘Social Infrastructure’. 6

Preface

The idea behind this study came as a result of my

Through the exploration of theoretical and technical

interest in reuse and programme exploration. I wanted

aspects of what a social infrastructure should be, the

to question design and what constitutes as the social

desired outcome is a redesigned factory that emphasizes

city. My parameters focus on ‘adaptive reuse’ of hard

the social cohesive possibilities on-site, through the

infrastructural spaces to integrate them back into the

physical interaction and hyper-diversity between the

social ‘scapes of the city with anticipations that the

people and the built form and vice-versa.

future of design will include the lessons learnt from this integration. I think radical ideas could result from this

The site that I have chosen for this rethink and reuse

amalgamation, such as railway housing, wind turbine

discourse is the decommissioned Athlone Power Station

skyscrapers, industrial living, bridge-parks or even petrol

located in-between Pinelands, Langa and Athlone.

station courtyard oasis’ – there are endless possibilities. Hence, the title “Dichotomia” -the Greek origin for dichotomy- which in this context means the contrast between two variables/systems/ structures. In this dissertation, it thus means the creation of spaces where two opposing or contradicting programmes could coexist in a single locus to form what can be defined as a ‘working public architecture’. DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

01 INPUT SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE

00 GUIDELINE

Dur et Doux

Dur Contre Doux

02 UNDERTAKING ATHLONE POWER STATION

Brief History

LA DROIT Á LA VILLE

Two Ladies of Athlone

HUMAN ‘STRUCTURE

Timeline of Events

AMALGAMATION

Situating

Site & Context

Traffic Network

Greenery & Ecosystem

Hard Infr. & Utilitariansim

Private Ownership

Mono-Functionality

AMALGAMATED

Existing Soft Infrastructures

PERCEPTION

Climate

Building Analysis Overview

Problem Buoyancy

Hyper-diversity

31 32

DESIGN PROPOSAL

Spatial Qualities

Issue

THEORETICAL PRECEDENT

Propsal

Case Study Conclusion

INPUT CONCLUSION 8

TURBINE HALL

Turbine Hall Analysis

Existing Floor Plans

REUSABILITY

Adaptive Reuse Principles

Adaptive Reuse Strategies

04 OUTPUT 03 PROGRESSION 86

THE ARCHITECTURE

Urban Concept

Langa Empowerment

Athlone Empowerment

Langa Empowerment

100

MIXED-USE STRATEGY

100

Exploring Strategies

102

Urban Strategic Structure Plan

108

CULTURAL LANDSCAPE

110

Issue

112

Cultural Centre Goal

114

CULTURAL LANDSCAPE CONCEPT

114

Empowering the People

116

The Zones

118

Understanding the Zones

119

Concluding the Zones

122

CULTURAL LANDSCAPE STRATEGY

122

Programming

124

Programming Strategy

132 132

134 134

140 140

144 144

146

RE:REUSABILITY Altering the Facade

INTERACTIVITY Interacting with the Facade

HYPER-DIVERSITY The Ice Rink

ENERGY Energy Storage

OUTPUT CONCLUSION

05 REFERENCE & APPENDIX 148

Reference A

150

Figures

154 156

160

APPENDIX Energy Storage Process

REFERENCE & FIGURES DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Design Proposal Site: Athlone Power Station Extent: 36 +ha Status: Decommissioned coal-burning factory Issue 1. Langa, Athlone and Pinelands are residential areas with great social-economical differences and inequality. One end is characterized by affluence whilst the other end is characterized by poverty. The declining urban environment of the Athlone Power Station sits as a grey area or a space of absurdity that only contributes to this divide of these residential areas. Through its redevelopment, the old factory holds the potential for social insertion and spatial transformation, to correct the dichotomy between the residential areas. 2. Furthermore, the power station is in desperate need of a revitalization, one in which pays respects to its past

Converting the Turbine Hall

inception, but focuses on its subsequent prospects. The

into a cultural centre?

factory symbolizes an outdated form of production, one characterized by pollution, utilitarianism, mono-functionality and anti-socialization. 10

Identifying a public space for all?

Proposal The proposal at hand is to re-develop and re-vitalize the Athlone Power Station to be a mixed use and diversified commercial node that focuses on physical, spatial and social cohesion between the public and the retained buildings, through the re-configuration and reimagining of the etymology of social infrastructure - It aims to produce a working public architecture through the social assimilation of infrastructure.

Rebuilding sustainable towers

The strategic plan is to create a mixed-use district and a

in the history of the old?

diverse, well-balanced community with highly attractive and sustainable urban spaces, that are friendly and welcoming to all users. The main focus of this mixed-used district will be a the adaptive reuse of the Turbine Hall into a cultural building and landscape.

Establishing a transit system?

Utilizing water bodies for irrigation, wetlands and agriculture? DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 1.4 [10-11] THE FUTURE OF ATHLONE? Endless Possibilities The very first concept to developing APS. This illustration serves as a reminder of where I started and to not forget the very first vision.

1 INPUT INPUT INPUT

“Input” describes the initial stage of production

within the industrial process. In this section, the

theory behind the study of social infrastructure is a examined and understood. 12

INPUT

1 INPUT INPUT INPUT

INPUT

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Social Infrastructure| Introduction

“It is always possible to do something different in and with the city than is specified…” -AbdouMaliq Simone (Simone, 2004: 409)

The rethinking of social infrastructure can only be met

The etymology of “infrastructure” is broken down into

through understanding its definition in context. The term

“infra” – meaning “below” in Latin and “structure” being

is used in many aspects of life with multiple meanings

the various parts constructing a framework while “social”

ranging from the urban environment to the digital

is of relation to society. In architecture, social infrastructure

environment and even political environment. Although,

can be best understood as the basic, quintessential

in recent years, we have seen this “social infrastructure”

framework of services that maintain the well-being, social,

being valued in the architecture scene, with a central

spatial and cultural aspects of any human settlement

focus on interaction, spaces of socialization and spaces

(Whitzman, 2001); these services establish a plethora of

for innovation, collective work and exchange in order to

city networks that yield social capital communities, whether

give agency to place-making and city growth in regards

it be friendship, safety, economic growth or communal

to social connexions.

engagement, the notion of “social infrastructure” plays a significant part in the success of urban communes (Rael and San Fratello, 2009).

DUR ET DOUX [French] “Hard and Soft”

The latter, being the ‘hard’ infrastructure, consists of the

Social infrastructure can be seen in different facets being:

landscape and often contribute to the less visible and celebrated

1. Active and productive societal spaces, such as

structures and railway are common examples of these services.

institutes, hospitals and centres (being cultural, children or even adult centres) etc. 2. Socialization spaces; being spaces for eating such as restaurants or places encouraging community engagement such as community kitchens, physical health centres, art galleries, cinemas, laundromat, cafes, etc. 3. Community engagement: interacting with the community on urban projects in their communities in order to improve their neighbourhood. 4. The public services mentioned above are ‘soft’

‘fundamental’ services that make up the city’s indispensable spaces by the public; sewers, factories, service stations, bridge

A dichotomy is naturally created between the hard and soft infrastructure because one exists with parameters, control and regulation whilst the others do not live under a set of instructions (Whitzman, 2001). For example, there is no ‘social rule’ for the minimum amount of public spaces necessary in an area, yet, there are building regulations and rules for the number of sewage openings or service stations available. Ultimately, this rule-tono-rule creates a hierarchy between the two infrastructures resulting in one appearing more fundamental than the other The next section further explains this dichotomy between hard infrastructure and soft infrastructure.

infrastructures but are often called social infrastructure due to their communal engaging characteristics.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 1.5 [UP]: The brutal conceptual perspective 04. By Author (2020).

DUR CONTRE DOUX [French] “Hard versus Soft” As a society, our knowledge of soft infrastructure is far outweighed by the knowledge behind hard infrastructure. From a judicial point of view, we seem to place less importance on these soft services. This is often because of economic growth; naturally, there is a mutual relationship between the immediate investment into hard infrastructure and the growth of the economy. Soft services tend towards cultural conservation and societal growth of people in communities and social spaces which pay-off its dividends over a longer period of time. Especially in third world countries, the mixed combination of inequality, poverty, poor housing and massive

public life of cities intact; a sociologist by the name of Eric Klinenberg makes the argument that investments into social infrastructures are crucial in preventing the deterioration of public life that shape the forms of interaction in urban areas. In his book “Places for the People,” he suggests investments into social infrastructure to be done through the creation of spaces that purposely promote access, usage, the inclusion of people and spaces that allow face-to-face interaction in order to shift the focus of cities away from hard infrastructure (Ocejo, 2019).

unemployment has contributed to the difficult choice of hard infrastructure being the essential anchor for investment. (Whitzman, 2001; Gopaidas, 2014). Although, in recent years, there has been a steady incline in the central importance of social infrastructure as a means of keeping social connections and the 16

FIGURE 1.6 [ ABOVE ]MONSTER IN THE CITY: A conceptual view of hard infrastructure. By Author (2020).

“Public institutions, such as libraries, schools, playgrounds, parks, athletic fields, and swimming pools, are vital parts of the social infrastructure. So too are sidewalks, courtyards, community gardens, and other spaces that invite people into the public realm. Community organizations, including churches and civic associations, act as social infrastructures when they have an established physical space where people can assemble, as do regularly scheduled markets for food, furniture, clothing, art, and other consumer goods.” (Klinenberg, 2018: 17)

Despite the anthropic needs social infrastructure provides, It is safe to say that hard infrastructure has been at the centre of city development since the 1800s up until the late 1900s. As mentioned in Henri Lefebvre’s ‘Right to the City’ the “Urban life has yet to begin”; but first, we need to “destroy those ideologies” that shaped the hard cities into these mechanisms and replace them with transformed and new ideas of a social force that prioritizes on the social society. (Lefebvre, Kofman & Lebas, 1996). Revising social infrastructure requires an understanding on the critiques made by its critical thinkers and how it is practised in context; the next chapter looks at the principles in social infrastructure through the works on Henri Lefebvre and AbdouMaliq Simone.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

La droit á la ville| Henri Lefebvre [French] “The right to the city”

Henri Lefebvre makes a strong observation with

the contemporary city; according to him, they lack

regards to social infrastructure; in “The Right to

a sense of “simultaneity” as people have become

the City”, Lefebvre argues that ‘participation’

pieces of an autonomous system created in cities

plays a key role in shaping the future of cities.

– people wake up, go to work on crowded buses

Participation acts as a form -if not the entirety- of

and trains, and go home.

social infrastructure as it creates opportunity for the anthropic society to “interact” or put in place

This is repeated on a daily with no noticeable

“situations” to interact with the conditions affecting

dichotomy between work and play; people occupy

the city’s public life (Lefebvre, Kofman & Lebase,

these urban spaces but are not really a part of

1996).

it – just consumers in the mix (Anderson, 2011). Therefore, it is vitally suggested that society should

‘Participation’ is concerned with involving the

have a say in the integration of social needs in the

community in making decisions that influence

shaping of the city spaces and its social conditions.

the city in ways that address the people’s needs, whether it be new spaces to socialize or new schools. In this way, society has a voice and opinion to how socio-economic growth and relationships should be built, ultimately giving people or the social, the “right to the city”. Furthermore, Lefebvre criticizes the kind of spaces created in 18

FIGURE 1.7 [ LEFT ] REALISM EXPRESS: A conceptual view of what New York could have looked like if the design proposal of the lower Manhattan Expressway by Robert Mosses came into effect in the 1940s. This image characterizes the harshness of treating hard infrastructure as the most crucial over the livelihood of people. The result is a hierachy where the object (representing hard infrastructure) dominates over the landscape. Collaged By Author (2020).

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Human ’structure| AbdouMaliq Simone

“Infrastructure is capable of facilitating the intersection of socialities”

actually places where people either contribute or cause destruction to society.

-AbdouMaliq Simone (Simone, 2004: 407) By doing so, A.M. Simone might be suggesting Urbanist and Professor of Sociology, AbdouMaliq

that these ‘ruins’ “force a reimagining of how

Simone has characterised social infrastructure to

cities might be organised” (Taylor, 2013). On the

be beyond Henri Lefebvre’s ideas. In his essay

latter, ‘infrastructure’ could represent the ‘hard’

“People as Infrastructure”, AbdouMaliq Simone

infrastructure that causes grey areas within spaces

describes areas in Johannesburg to be places

of society or make spaces of society better.

of ruination due to the nature of urbanization

In either setting, there are both economic and

in Johannesburg. Although, amidst these ruins

cultural effects of the infrastructures on the society

lie both impeders of a social urbanization but

because of how “conventional structures for

also potential promoters of a social urbanization

organizing society are alienating when projected

(Simone, 2004).

into environments like Johannesburg” (Taylor, 2013).

A. M. Simone uses ‘infrastructure’ as a metonym for these ruins, but what makes this so interesting is that the ‘infrastructure’ could, on one hand, apply to the ‘social’, in other words, the ‘people’ and their activities; therefore, places of ruins are 20

FIGURE 1.8 [ ABOVE ] ENGINE INHABITATION: The notion of living in the engine (hard infrastructure) suggest a relationship with industrialism and how they influence our being. By Author (2020).

A. M. Simone could be making parallels between people and hard infrastructure in the way that they both contribute to making the city productive; this platform for providing and making life in the city is done through an intersection between the object, the spatial and the people, which he sees to be socially organizing (Simone, 2004). It could be suggested that AbdouMaliq Simone sees social infrastructure as this intersection of the object, space, the person and their practices. By seeing the average human as ‘infrastructure’, the ‘object’ – representing the structural form- does not have sole importance in cities but the persons and their adjoining urban space have as much importance. This looks at the notion of non-hierarchal, and non-conventional forces at play by treating the human as infrastructure; the social needs become a coding system which is just as valid as the physical infrastructure. In this way, there is “a platform providing for and reproducing life in the city” (Simone, 2004: 408). DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

By making them visible, you are making them equal for

Therefore, If we are to consider social infrastructure

analysis and comparison. Because of this, I believe a

to be the amalgamation of AbdouMaliq Simone’s and

social infrastructure through A. M. Simone is concerned

Henri Lefebvre’s theories, then it’s safe to say a social

with building equal importance between the structure,

infrastructure consists of the inter-stitching of the object

the spatial and the people and all their activities (i.e.

(built form), the social (the people and participation) and

soft infrastructure). There is “a platform providing for

the spatial (the manifested spaces for people interaction).

and reproducing life in the city” (Simone, 2004). This

The next topic looks at this amalgamation in a more

idea of intersection also ties in with Lefebvre’s ideas of

specific light.

community engagement in the making of the city in the way that participation allows for the society to have a

“Social Infrastructure helps in recognizing the public

decision in the spatial and object; these ideas have the

dimensions of often overlooked and undervalued spaces.”

possibility of anchoring the livelihoods of residents of a

- (Lantham & Layton, 2019)

city and displays how the focus on socialization affects the urban environment.

FIGURE 1.9 [ ABOVE ] SCREEN PRINT: This screen print is being used as a metonym for the stitching between object, spatial and social. It almost as if the object triumphs over the social when really an equalibrium in the way to build a social city By Tristram Mason (2012).

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Amalgamation| Rethink

Both Henri Lefebvre’s and AbdouMaliq Simone’s approach to better

from the endless public possibilities they hold; authors Alan

identifying social infrastructure is done under different contexts.

Lantham and Jack Layton from UCL have mentioned that

Although different, they do share certain commonalities; they both

“infrastructures are a crucial part of how cities function as

build on this notion that the tectonics of the city landscape should

socio-technological systems” and are “an integral part of the

include not only the built forms and the spatial environment but also

urban fabric” (Lantham & Layton, 2019; 2). With this in mind,

the codes and systems that deal with societal activity, that is not

the argument at hand is that there is this divide between the soft

automatically a building as a result but a form that accommodates

infrastructure and the hard infrastructure, as wells as a lack of

the social needs of the populace (Anderson, 2011). This is interesting

acknowledgement for hard infrastructure, thus hindering it from

because, throughout this discussion of the social, there are no fully

becoming part of the city’s social atmosphere and contributing

invested notions concerning the societal possibilities in the non-social

to the public life in a similar fashion to soft infrastructure.

atmosphere; by this, I am referring to ‘inhabiting’ hard infrastructure. Within recent years, designers have tried to blur this divide

Hard Infrastructure and Utilitarianism

by focusing their efforts in the ‘less visible, but indispensable systems that underlie urban fabric” (Carlisle, 2013), for the reason that they believe hard infrastructure is worthy of “design

As mentioned earlier in the paper, hard infrastructure is understood as

consideration” (Carlisle, 2013); I think it is more than that –

the services that support the society and keep the urban environment

hard infrastructure is worthy of design that allows the public

functional. It is occasionally referred to as ‘physical infrastructure’ or just

to utilize the spaces they create in the design; this notion is

‘infrastructure’, and just like the soft infrastructure, hard infrastructure

some-what touched upon in “Splintering Urbanism” by Steve

plays a role in the formation of the city but is often under-appreciated

Graham and Simon Marvin. The two authors refer to the

urban infrastructure networks as “congealed social interests” (Graham & Marvin, 2001), and that they connect spaces across the landscape through their “distribution grids” and “topological connections” which aids in producing a social dynamic in and across international limitations (Graham & Marvin, 2001). For this study, I am specifically speaking about factories and places of industrialization that have social potential but instead form grey, underutilized spaces in themselves and in between the stitching of the city and its social spaces, this could be due to a collection of connotations associated with industrialization in South Africa and around the world in general. Industrial architecture has always had two main goals since the late 1700s: productivity and security. This focus on improved production, durability and fire prevention strategies led the construction methods and ultimately, the architecture that characterized the heavy and light industrial fabric (Jevremovic and Vasic, 2012). Even though these industries have taken radical changes in architecture and environmental policies, they are still associated with connotations pertaining to the urban fabric. A few key connotations surrounding hard infrastructure are summarised under the flowing:

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 2.0 [ ABOVE ] ADDERLEY ST: Rethinking the relationship between Hard Infrastructure and Soft Infrastructure by blending functions, forcing the rethinking of industrial methods. Collaged By Author (2020).

Private-Ownership Private ownership has its ways of setting spatial injustices when considering infrastructure. When infrastructures (both hard and soft) are privately funded and supplied, they seem to be of a higher standard than those infrastructures that are publicly provided. With the privatization of buildings or systems, comes the privatization of the surrounding land it sits on or owned by and the deliverance of a greater service made only accessible by the communities or populace who can afford the infrastructure. These services are dynamic, they are whatever the people want, from open spaces to private security or even private water supply. This is not a bad thing for privately provided infrastructures, but it is a frown upon the publicly funded facilities and spaces as they are often not well maintained and do not cater to their surrounding community or environment the same way privately funding does, thus a spatial injustice is created. With that being said, privately funded infrastructure should consider creating services for the general public to interact with; this can almost be seen as a way of giving back to the everyday man (Cuff, Higgins and Samuels, 2010). VECTOR 04 [ ABOVE]

FIGURE 2.1 [UP ] SPATIAL INJUSTICE: Conceptual collage representing spatial injustice from private ownership By Author (2020).

Mono-functionality: Even though hard infrastructure such as power stations and transportation systems are essential to society, their involvement in the city in various aspects is limited. They have been placed under a limitation by singular performance goals (Cuff, Higgins and Samuels, 2010). We need to take the opportunity to replace this functional logic; as Stephanie Carlisle mentions in “Rethinking

buildings, then we are looking at hard infrastructure that supports simultaneity; as designers in the field of architecture, the next step is to alter hard infrastructure to consist of active nodes to promote post-industrial design integration for the city and communities surrounding these infrastructures; this is the amalgamation of hard and soft infrastructure which is better discussed in the next section.

Infrastructure”, we need to “rethink the future of infrastructure and urbanization beyond the dogma of civil engineering and transportation planning and to propose strategies that address the predominant challenges facing urban economies today” (Carlisle, 2013). Similarly, Henri Lefebvre speaks about this notion in a similar fashion; he mentions that the contemporary urban society lacks locations of “simultaneity and encounters” (Lefebvre, 1996: 148) suggesting the urban cannot be fixed but needs to accommodate fluidity and adaptability. If we extend this notion towards the programming of industrial DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Amalgamated| Rethought

Social Infrastructure, through Henri Lefebvre, AbdouMaliq Simone and a few mentioned authors above, is seen as this intersection between the built form, the manifested spaces for activity and the social; the popular and all their services concerned with socialization and participation. Furthermore, the section above has successfully demonstrated that hard infrastructure plays a large contribution in defining the urban fabric and consists of plausible possibilities to influence and become spaces of socialization and interaction; with that being said, I am proposing the notion that a true, holistic social infrastructure is essentially the intersection of ‘soft infrastructure’, ‘hard infrastructure’ and ‘perception’. By integrating the hard infrastructure with the soft infrastructure, we can begin to perceive or imagine the adaptive reuse of service buildings and civic structures to work in a different, sustainable, creative and more interactive way, more than just metaphysical. 28

It therefore focuses on the explorations of typologies, and the adaptive potentials of industrial buildings such as the Athlone Power Station. We can anticipate factories, and other service buildings to do more than just their utilitarian function, they can create spatial and physical change that allows social interaction with the city’s inhabitants, putting more meaning to an adaptable, fluid city whilst continuing with its utilitarian function. This holistic view of social infrastructure could and should be considered in current and decayed buildings; in current functional buildings, programme diversity is created through the amalgamation of the hard and soft infrastructure, that can have a large influence on the residing community, both for leisure and work reasons.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 2.2 [UP ] ROOFING: The brutal conceptual roof By Author (2020).

Perception| Imagining

Defining social infrastructure as this intersection between hard infrastructure and soft infrastructure cannot be done without considering the perception in design inquiry. There could be a certain way of thinking that contributes to a true combined social infrastructure; the notion of ‘perception’ thus suggests that there is an angle in design critiquing that results in a consciously designed working public architecture. By analysing certain architects who have displayed a level of infrastructural integration in design projects, we are able to understand their perception when it comes to design thinking; they demonstrate an alternative view ad-hoc to rethinking what may be the future of design. Certain architects such as Bjarke Ingels Group and NL Architects have laid precedence that has successfully displayed this idea of an alternative design perception to improve the quality of life. By studying these precedents, a different perspective is noticeable; one that is innovative and inventive of its time. This could have stemmed from how the architectural firms perceive a design ‘problem’ and how they perceive ‘integration’. 30

Problem Buoyancy: Usually, design thinking regarding challenges and problems goes through a set of ‘actions’ and ‘reflections’, whereby the designer does critical reflection, drawing on theories and preconceptions to formulate an action to resolve design problems. With regards to pragmatics, practice outweighs the theory to resolve a design problem; theories are just instruments for practice and are only useful if they help us in the real world (Dalsgaard, 2017). In most of Bjarke Ingels’ designs, it appears as if the notion of a ‘problem’ is not considered to be a problem but is seen as the main ingredient to the design creation. It is a bit of a systematic approach which delineates from counter-intuitive approaches where the solution often appears vague, and to some degree, is reached unintentionally or unconsciously. It is the different perception of defining a problem that could be a key feature in designing the social infrastructure way. “Pragmatic problems of society are the conflict which the utopian thoughts of the architect try to solve.” – Anders Møller (Møller, 2013)

Hyper-diversity: Integration in design is concerned with how

The notion of such a hyper-diversity

the built form can influence its surrounding,

stands as a hybrid example of what

its inhabitant and aspects of sustainability.

a holistic social infrastructure should

The integration is created in many avenues by

aspire to do; it should try to integrate

Bjarke Ingels, but one route which I find very

into innovative, contemporary ways that

interesting and worth a social infrastructure is

accept diversity and tries to combine as

hyper-diversity: creating forms and spaces of

many constituents of the city in order to

sizeable differences.

create fact from fiction.

This is evident in how not one single project is the same; they are all diverse in form and

Perception thus associates itself with

function in order to be integrated into its residing

an alternative interpretation or view

environment. In addition, the programmes in

on a medium, but perception cannot

certain projects by Bjarke Ingels Group display

live without conception, as without it,

large diversity, such as the Zero Waste to

perception would be blind (Anton, 2011).

Energy Plant in Copenhagen which mixes a

Therefore, the existing perception can be

range of functions such a ski-slope, climbing

altered in a way that promotes diversity,

wall, nature reserve and of course, its utilitarian

through the conception of social industrial

energy-producing service.

and post-industrial spaces. DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 2.3 [UP ] DELIVERY BAY: The spatial qualities Collaged by Author (2020).

Spatial qualities Perception

associates

itself

with

alternative interpretation or view on a medium, but perception cannot live without conception, as without it, perception would be blind (Anton, 2011). Therefore, the existing perception can be altered in a way that promotes diversity, through the conception of social industrial and postindustrial spaces. Between this amalgamation of hard and soft infrastructure, a perception of space is created. This perception is influenced by certain factors that add to the overall spatial

Memory

Past

Future

Hard Infrastructure

Soft Infrastructure

qualities of the Athlone Power Station. APS

Cultural Centre

Perception of Space

Memory

FIGURE 2.4 [UP ] PERCEPTION: Understanding how hard and soft creates a new perception of space By Author (2020).

Scale

Diversity

Materiality

New

Memory:

Scale:

Diversity:

Materiality:

the

Speaking about user experience,

Diversity is also a user experience

Materiality offers flexibility to the

focuses

scale has a large influence on how

through the use of programming.

perceived space; it touches on the

how the memory of the

we perceive both the existing and

Diversity as a considerable factor

visual and sensational aspects of

both

new spatial qualities. With scale, the

allows for the appropriation of

the user. The existing materiality

the built characteristics and the

experience of the user is controlled

programmes that are contrasting

denotes any pleasant feelings which

spatial characteristics; the spatial

by how it is utilized or made most

to the original function of the

is at the bane of user experience.

characteristics involves how users

effective;

power station. In the new space,

In the discovery of a new spatial

use and migrate through the factory

the overall configuration of the

hyper-diversity could lead to new

quality, materiality plays a vital role

spaces. When designing this new

power station. In creating the new

programmes that bring new life into

in design decision making as it

perception of space, the memory

perception, scale gives a variety of

the space.

interacts with the users experiences

serves to suggest what key features

iterations for experiencing space.

Considering perception on power

memory of

station

space

influences

this

all

depends

on a more personal note.

should be preserved, whether its a user experience or a physical element of the power station.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Existing and new perceptions of space. One changing the notion of hard infrastructure by considering the user more than the equipment.

The existing internal space of the power station has a constant focus on rule, order and limitations. There are both social and

Perception of Space

user limitations with the prioritization being on the machinery. By amalgamating hard and soft infrastructure, a new perception of space is created, one that is different from the existing perception that was built on regulation and control. This new perception

Thus, the current architectural qualities, both tangible and intangible speaks to a notion of order, control and limitations to abide by.

Hard Infrastructure was always better funded, and differed from soft infrastructure due to rules, parameters, control and regulations, which separated it from soft infrastructure.

is influenced by the factors mentioned on the previous page; these factors also determined the existing spatial qualities and thus will influence the new spatial qualities emerging out of this new perceived space.

FIGURE 2.5 [RIGHT ] PERCEPTION CONT.: Understanding hard and soft creates a new perception of space By Author (2020).

EXISTING

NEW PERCEPTION

Memory

Scale

Diversity

Materiality

This perception of space is influenced by certain factors which in turn influence both the present and future spatial qualities of the buildings.

The current spatial qualities is one that is associated with hard infrastructural characteristics

NEW SPATIAL QUALITIES

FACTORS INFLUENCING PERCEPTION

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 2.6 [UP ] INTERNAL: Emphasizing hard forms By Author (2020).

Theoretical Precedent| Summary Project:

Project:

Architect:

Year of completion: 2017

Year of completion: 2009

Current Use: Energy plant & Recreation Centre

Current Use: Mixed-use

Project Size: 41 000m2

Project Size: 48 774m2

Copenhill, also known as Amager Bakke is a new waste-to-energy

The Ford Richmond Plant was the largest automobile industrial plant built in

treatment facility on the industrial waterfront of Denmark’s capital,

1931 on the Richmond bay of California, originally designed by architect, Albert

Copenhagen. Apart from functioning as a power plant, the power plant

Khan -who at the time was well known for his ‘assembly line’ architecture- for

functions as a recreational facility by creating a social life for the city through

Henry Ford. The building was used in World War 2 for the production of jeeps,

its programs; the roof of the power plant functions as a 450m long ski-

tanks, armoured vehicles and other wartime products. After World War 2, the

slope that varies in steepness depending on where you stand. This public

factory went on to produce civilian vehicle until its closing in 1956 to which it

entity represents soft infrastructure whilst the interior entity represents the

was abandoned and decaying site (Arcdaily, 2011). Today the adaptive reuse

hard infrastructure. In this way, the power station stands as an example of

factory is a mixed-use public and private facilities housing social and industrial

a true working public social infrastructure through it’s hyper-diversity and

programmes. Social features of the site include retail spaces, offices, a WWII

soft & hard amalgamation.

museum, restaurant, art exhibitions and performance spaces. In addition, the site

Waste-to-Energy Plant/ Copenhill Bjarke Ingels Group

Ford Motor Company Assembly Plant Marcy Wong Donn Logan Architects

also consists of a range of commercial residences and corporate headquarters. 36

FIGURE 2.7 [ABOVE] COPENHILL: A rendering of the waste-to-energy incineration plant By Bjarke Ingels Group (2014).

FIGURE 2.8 [ABOVE] FORD ASSEMBLY PLANT: After restoration. By Billy Hustace (2018).

Project:

Charles H. Shaw Technology and Learning Centre

Architect: Farr Associates Year of completion: 2009 Current Use: Learning Centre Location: North Lawndale,

Project: Irving Street Brewery Architect: Tzannes Associates Year of completion: 2015 Current Use: Trigeneration Power Plant Location: Sydney, Australia

Chicago

Project Size: 26 400m2

Project Size: 8361m2

The Irving Street Brewery is the renamed, adaptive reuse of the Carlton and United Old Kent Brewery which was set up by ‘Tooth and Company’ in 1835

The Charles H. Shaw Technology and Learning is an adaptive reuse of an old

on a six-hectare site once known to be an industrial land, however, now

industrial power station in Chicago. The red-brick powerhouse originally produced

referred to today as Central Park. The Central Park region is an urban park

electricity and supplied heat energy to the neighbouring sites. The landmark was

arranged in Sydney’s midtown region in a locale known as Chippendale. The

commissioned in 1905 as a coal-fired producer and switched to gas energy after

structure remains as a prime case of readapting a heritage site and integrating

50 years and decommisioned in 2002. In 2006, renovations began and by 2009,

hard functions with social frameworks. This is done in the way the old brewery

the old power station was registered as a public charter high school, aimed at

is converted into a power plant (tri-generation) inside a site viewed as a

helping the poverty afflicted area of Chicago’s youth. During the renovation, some

socialization hub; in other words, the physical infrastructure gets stitched with

of the existing equipment was kept in remembrance of what was and for industrial

the spatial and social delicate foundations adding to AbdouMaliq Simone’s

fabric aesthetics. By doing so, the school almost becomes an exhibition, in which

notion of a social infrastructure.

the static machine lays open for all the view and interact with. DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 2.9 [ABOVE]: Charles Shaw Technology and Learning Centre By Farr Associates (2009).

FIGURE 3.0 [ABOVE]: Irving Street Brewery Render By Tzannes (2019).

Case Study Conclusion A true social infrastructure should be one that considers the binding of soft services and hard services. They are spaces created, where these two infrastructures insect

AMS

to form its society because they both play a role in contributing to the growth and inhabitable making the city. The case studies mentioned above seem to showcase

Object, Spatial & Social inter-stitching

various ways in which this amalgamation can occur. Each of these case studies has similar upbringings;

Authorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Concept

they all started as industrial producers that were later decommissioned, abandoned and eventually readapted into more sustainably conscious forms as technologies evolved. They all challenge this notion that old dilapidated industrial typologies should be left to rot as opposed

Soft Infrastructure + Hard Infrastructure + Perception

to seeing its potential to be reused in new and diverse ways that integrate people through its spatial tectonics and through the physical interactions it creates as people discover the internal structures of the old machine. It is almost as if the internal hard infrastructures become exhibitions when reused and adapted. 38

Social Infrastructure

The term ‘adaptive reuse’ describes the altering of an inactive or unused building or site into a development that is used for something other than its original function to promote and improve the surrounding community. In some ways, a true social infrastructure is similar to adaptive reuse by not identical; it is as if adaptive reuse falls under the category of true social infrastructure. This is because a true social infrastructure is not meant to only function with adapting old buildings, but to inspire the typologies of new buildings. As mentioned in the preface, this way of perceiving architecture could lead to radical design inspired by fiction, one in which railway housing or wind turbine skyscrapers become the utopian reality. Moreover, I think these case studies illustrate that the amalgamation of hard and soft infrastructure, is not limited to adaptive reuse; it is also about the creation of new forms that integrate hard and soft infrastructure (such as ‘Copenhill’), allowing us to change the existing perception of what an industrial building is meant to function as, aestheticize as or where it is meant to be geographically positioned. Please refer to appendix for more an elaboration of the case studies.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 3.1 [UP] INDUSTRIAL TECHNE: The illustration envisions a world where industrial plants become safe to live and socialize. By Author (2020).

Input Conclusion|

The Athlone Power Station sits as an interesting site to apply these thoughts of a true social infrastructure. All through the conversation, I have contended that social infrastructure is something beyond the social spaces and services set up for our advantages. I.e. It is more than just the soft infrastructures; It is a combination of systems that make up the city, being the object, the spatial aspects, the social aspects and the hard infrastructure since they all play a role in moulding the urban areas and the individuals in them.

Adaptive reuse projects are examples of this amalgamation and work superbly at envisioning connections between post-hard infrastructures and the public in general. The future of industrial architecture

should

attempt

install

social

dynamics into their structure to bring an urban change that benefits the city and its occupants and change the way that we see industrial structures. Besides, Athlone Power Station can develop into a highly unique architecture that considers endless possibilities through social inception that serves the neighbouring areas and Cape Town city as a whole and by being the model future industrial buildings can follow, in the journey of forming an integrated, sustainable city. The next section begins to unpack the

Athlone Power Station.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 3.2 [UP] BRUTAL FORCE: Illustrating the magnitude By Author (2020).

UNDERTAKING UNDERTAKING UNDERTAKING UNDERTAKING. “Undertaking” describes the feedback stage of production

within the industrial process. In this section, the information on the building is fed into the mix to contextualize and understand the site and ways to adapting it. 42

UNDERTAKING UNDERTAKING UNDERTAKING UNDERTAKING.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Brief History Athlone Power Station was a coal-burning power station commissioned in the 1960s in-between Cape Town City and Cape Town International Airport. Its conception was due to Eskom’s inability to provide electricity from their grid post-1957. The station sits on approximately 36 hectares of land and had been producing a total of 180 megawatts of

The “Two Ladies of Athlone”

energy for the city of Cape Town for over 30 years.

The “two ladies of Athlone” referred to the two giant cooling

Due to arising issues, the station was decommissioned

towers on the Athlone Power Station site. In 2010, these

in 2003 with plans for an adaptive reuse approach

cooling towers were demolished due to respiratory complaints

beginning towards the end of 2009.

posed by the neighbouring communities of Pinelands, Athlone and Langa. Even though removed, the towers were seen as both a symbol of pollution and a Cape Town landmark. Just as a Johannesburg resident feels at home when a long drive suddenly brings the Hillbrow and Brixton towers into view, Capetonians had Table Mountain and the cooling towers. Now they just have the mountain.

Athlone Power Station| Unpacking

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 3.3 [UP] BRUTAL FORM: Illustrating the fixed form By Author (2020).

Timeline of Events 1960s

1994

2009

Power station commissioned by

The station was recommissioned again

Eskom to produce electricity for

The City of Cape Town, together with

but leaning more towards a backup in

the city of Cape Town

Aurecon begin feasibility studies for the

the case of a wide system failure. Its old

adapting of the old power station

operations systems meant its output had to be reduced from 180 MW to 120 MW, and have two turbines withdrawn to prevent any catastrophes.

1985

2003

Operations seize momentarily

The station was decommisioned for good, officially due

due to technical difficulties

to poor economic viability and inability to meet energy requirements as power demands grew. Currently, energy demands are sitting at 2100 megawatts.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 3.4 [UP] NEWLY OPENED N2 1962: By Etienne du Plessis (2010).

Situating ERF 32564

Site | Athlone Power Station Extent | 36 +ha

Zoning | Utility / Undetermined zoning set aside for Municipal Purposes

Density | Medium - High

Settlers Way Jan Smuts

Status | Decommissioned coal-burning factory

Bhunga Avenue

Bhunga Avenue Bhunga Avenue Settlers Way

N DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 3.5 [P48-49] ARTISTIC SITE MAP: Map highlights the access onto site. By Author (2020).

Distance from city centre (CBD)

120 mins walk

Site & City Context

25 mins ride

Demographics

12 mins drive

The Athlone Power Station can be seen

Pinelands:

as the piece of the puzzle that solidified the division between its surrounding communities. There is a socio-economical divide or disjunction between suburbs Pinelands, and Athlone and township Langa; These communities have very

Langa:

little interaction between them as a result. The development of the site presents an opportunity to lessen this physical and spatial divide; through facilitating shared activities that are hyper-diverse and the administering of interaction between hard

Athlone:

and soft infrastructure; the site would then harvest the ability to contribute to social integration for neighbouring sites and the city of Cape Town. Pinelands: 14 198 50

4915

Langa:

Hazendal:

Kewtown:

Bridgetown:

52 401

4995

8373

12 120

17 402

1094

1791

2766

FIGURE 3.6 [PAGE] ANALYSIS 01: By Author (2020).

Contextual map

Urban Focal Points

Athlone Power Station Site

primary road network

CT International Airport

Jan Smuts St

Settlers Way/ Major Route

Urban Built Form

Radial Distance

Pedestrian Desire Patterns

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 3.7 [PAGE] ANALYSIS 02: By Author (2020).

Langa sits as Cape Town’s oldest Pinelands is an affluent neighbourhood,

centralized township that suffers from

consisting of middle to high-income

poor

persons. It is often referred to as the

attraction due to poor infrastructure.

“garden city” as it was the first town-

Such poor infrastructure poses a threat

planned area to be established in South

to crime and accidents, especially fire

Africa. It is mostly characterized by spatial

hazards due to the number of shacks

planning of centralized parks and public

consisting of hazardous materials and

buildings with residential areas sitting on

illegal, exposed electricity cables.

the peripheral of the parks.

FIGURE 3.8 [ABOVE & NEXT PAGE] STREET COMPILATION: A collage characterizing a piece of the surrounding neighbourhoods. By Author (2020).

services

and

lacks

business

Athlone is a southern suburb divided into many â&#x20AC;&#x153;sub-placesâ&#x20AC;?. It is home to the subplaces of the Cape Flats, known for its criminal activity but also cultural history. Athlone is a generally culturally diverse area with industrial and commercial zones, although, it is predominantly residential to Coloured communities, many of whom follow the Muslim faith.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Traffic Network The site is well situated in terms of metropolitan movement routes and has the potential to have controlled access by local communities. It is an island bounded by the N2 (Settlers Way) to the

TRAFFIC NETWORK MAP

south, Jan Smuts Drive to the North-East. Access to the site is from Langa, via Bhunga Avenue (which intersects with the N2) and a service road south of

primary road network

the site, parallel to the N2. The site is also served with a rail link which services the ARTS for daily removal of

secondary road network

compacted waste to the Vissershok waste disposal site along the west coast. The rail link also bisects

light duty road network

the site on the west side which served the power station for the delivery of coal and the removal of

commuter railway network

ash. Pedestrian links to the site may require bridging infrastructure. The site is easily accessible on foot

commuter railway station

from Langa but not from Pinelands. The linkages to Athlone is established through the Bhunga bridge.

Water body

Entrance off Bhunga Drive FIGURE 3.9 [PAGE] SITE ANALYSIS 01 By Author (2020).

riv e Fo res tD

Langa

uts

Jan Sm

Bhunga Ave.

Settlers Way

Hazendal

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 4.0 [PAGE] SITE ANALYSIS 02 By Author (2020).

Greenery & Ecosystems The location is decently level with previous control station structures and offices possessing approx. 50% of the zone. The site consists of gum trees

ECOSYSTEMS MAP

in various parts; both the Jan Smuts and the N2 edge consists of an abundance of these gum trees while a reasonable sum of gum and pine trees are scattered around the remaining parts of

Planned Vegetation

the location. A primary bulk water line (225mm) navigates through the location in an east-west course which may be tapped into for consumption. Networks of treated sewage water also lines the edges of the site which could be incorporated for

Unplanned Vegetation

The section marked A-A demonstrates how very little the terrain changes as it cuts through the site

Water Body

perpendicular to Settlers Way (N2).

irrigational systems

Jan Smuts

Bhunga Ave.

Settlers Way

FIGURE 4.1 [BELOW] TERRAIN SECTION By Author (2020). 56

A-A

Langa Cemetary

A King David Golf Club

Langa Stadium Clyde Pinelands Sportsfield

Athlone Treatment Plant

FIGURE 4.2 [PAGE] SITE ANALYSIS 03 By Author (2020).

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Nantes Park

e tD riv Fo res

Existing Soft Infrastructures

Langa

PINELANDS

The locations regarding heavy or light industries can incite a reaction within the areas they inhabit; they affect the land and give off a spatial identity with the potential to better or worsen the surrounding communities. Usually, the identity of

LANGA HOCKEY CLUB & LANGA STADIUM

CLYDE PINELANDS ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL CLUB

a site is created or moulded through timely growth involving

uts

Jan Sm

the community; Jane Jacobs was aware of this when she

LANGA

LANGA SPORTS COMPLEX

Green Area

said: “Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody…only when, they are created by everybody”

Green Area

(Jacob, 1961: 238).

Bhunga Ave.

Green Area

Settlers Way

Even though the power station contributes to the divide of the neighbouring sites, the soft, interactive infrastructures highlighted on the right that surround APS prevented or

Hazendal

lessened the post-industrial negative effect of dilapidation. Yes, the power station influences the sites, but was not the sole purpose for what Langa and Athlone are today. The soft

BRIDGETOWN (ATHLONE)

NANTES PARK

HAZENDAL (ATHLONE)

infrastructures indicated here are mostly sports and open green

KEWTOWN (ATHLONE)

areas ranging between private and public.

Green Area

ATHLONE STADIUM Green Area SOFT INFRASTRUCTURES 58

FIGURE 4.3 [PAGE] SITE ANALYSIS 04 By Author (2020).

Climate The site experiences a East to West sun pattern with the sun setting behind table mountain. The site experiences wind movement in almost every direction depending on the time of day. At noon, the wind moves in a North-Eastern direction and varies in intensity. The space between the main components on site may cause a draft, but fortunately, this might only be felt outside user hours. Threats With the wind moving in a North-Eastern direction the smell of sewage

from the

treatment plant south of the site spreads onto the site. This is aided by the movement of vehicles on the N2 as wind and noise is generated by the moving vehicles.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 4.4 [PAGE] SITE ANALYSIS 05 By Author (2020).

Building Analysis Overview PINELANDS

The site consists of a number of building with the

biggest and more recognizable structure being the turbine hall. The coal store is also very recognizable

as it is the second largest structure and sits north

LANGA

of the turbine hall. Currently, all buildings remain unused and abandoned except for the ‘Athlone

Refuse Transfer Station’ (ARTS) which is used for JAN SMUTS

waste-management and has its own entrance.

6 7

10 11

The remaining site consists of smaller buildings

3 12

used to aid in the production of energy from coal

BHUNGA AVE

burning. SETTLERS WAY EXISTING MAIN ACCESS

ATHLONE

FIGURE 4.5 [UP] SITE COMPONENTS By Author (2020).

SITE PLAN

4. TRAIN TIPPING BUILDING 1.

TURBINE HALL

5. CONVEYOR HOUSE 1&2 6. ASH HANDLING PLANT 7. STORE 1

COAL STORE

8. STORE 2 9. WORKSHOP

10. WORKSHOP 1 11. OFFICE 1 ARTS

12. GATE HOUSE

BHUNGA AVE

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 4.6 [UP] MAP IMAGES By Author (2020).

TURBINE HALL 18 650m2

FIGURE 4.7 [PAGE] CONCEPTUAL FORM: Turbine Hall By Author (2020).

ASBESTOS ROOF ROOFING

Turbine Hall Analysis

CONVEYOR HOUSE HOTWELL HOUSE FLOOR

STEEL PORTAL FRAME COAL BUNKER

STRUCTURE

BOILER HOUSE TURBINE HOUSE TURBO-ALTERNATOR

The Turbine Hall makes up the bulk of the entire power station. It was previously

TURBO CONDENSER

used to house the vital systems required to

FIRST FLOOR/ OPERATING FLOOR

generate electricity; such systems include the boilers used to create steam through the

DUST COLLECTOR TO CHIMNEY STACK

coal burning process, and the turbines- used to produce electricity through the movement of steam within the turbine condensers and valves.

FLOOR

GROUND FLOOR/ BASEMENT LEVEL

COAL CONVEYOR

CAVITY WALL ENVELOPE DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 4.8 [RIGHT] AXO: Unpacking the Turbine Hall By Author (2020).

FACADE EXPLODED AXO

The Houses

The Turbine hall can be isolated into three houses: 1. The Boiler House, which is a 16m wide section of the turbine hall that houses 8 boilers that was utilized in the steam generation cycle. 2. The Bunker House which can be subdivided into the coal bunker and a 10m bunker bay. The coal bunker

Hotwell House Boiler House

incidentally stored the coal coming from the coal storage whereas the bunker bay would crush the coal into

Bunker House

Turbo House

Chimney Stack

particles before being pumped into the boilers. 3. The Hotwell House houses the 8m wide pumping bay used to feed coal to the dedicated mil. Dust Collector

4. The Turbo House, which consists of the turbo-alternators

Pumping bay

and the condensers connected through one level of floor plates. They were utilized to convert mechanical energy into electricity. 64

Electrical Generator Rooms Room FIGURE 4.9 [UP] SECTION 01: Turbine Hall cut through NTS & Ref. Map By Author (2020).

BOILER HOUSE

BUNKER HOUSE

VOID TO GROUND FLOOR/ DELIVERY BAY

TURBO HOUSE

VIEW OF BUNKER HOUSE/COAL BUNKER

STAIRS TO GROUND FLOOR

MEZZANINE TO GROUND FLOOR

TURBO ALTERNATOR DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 5.0 [RIGHT] CONCEPTUAL PLAN: By Author (2020).

TURBINE HALL FIRST FLOOR PLAN

FIGURE 5.1 [UP] INTERIOR IMAGES: By Gary Van Haght (n.d.).

Facade The exterior comprises of flat-facing red and dark brickwork that appears to be arranged with a stretcher bond connection. The internal walls are approximately 310mm while the exterior walls are cavity walls of approximately 600mm, which extend to make parapets. Most of the structures on site consists of this redbrickwork. The exterior of the turbine hall also comprises of a significant amount of glazing on all faces which tries to help the tremendous building visually and functionally. The glazing is surrounded by a layer of reinforced concrete.

FIGURE 5.2 [UP] WALL SEGMENT: By Author (2020).

Currently, the exterior requires minor repairs to the brick and fragmented lintels and various broken windows which require quick consideration. The reinforced concrete encompassing the windows have shown signs of breaking but are still fundamentally sound. The elevation below gives an indication of the power station scale in relation to the average person.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 5.3 [UP] WEST FACADE ELEVATION: By Author (2020).

TURBINE HALL WEST FACADE

Pre-cast holllow reinforced concrete

Floors The turbine hall comprises of two primary floors and three

Valve and Cooler openings

mezzanine levels. The first floor runs from the turbo-house to the bunker house and is around 7m over the ground floor (FFL). The floors are made up of steel structural

Steel support system

frames and pre-cast reinforced concrete and comprises of operable floor plate openings for valves and coolers coming from the ground floor up. The mezzanine levels occur between the bunker house and hotwell house around 15m above the main floor, used to gain access to the hotwell house and coal bunker; they

Valve and Cooler from ground floor

are constructed similarly to the floors below. The floors range between 300mm and 500mm in thickness with the steel supports forming connections with the internal steel

Brickwork facade potential construction

portal frames. 68

FIGURE 5.4 [UP] WALL AND FLOOR COMPOSITION By Author (2020).

+32.99m

+23.82m +20.64m +17.23m

+7.28m

+0.00m

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 5.5 [UP] PARALLEL PROJECTION SECTION Section illustates different heights and internal components By Author (2020).

Steel Structure The turbine hall is made of large reinforced steel portal frames. The columns forming the frames are box columns of approximately 800mm x 1500mm in total size consisting of web plates and flange plates to connect the perpendicular 1097mm x 305mm girders. The frames potentially in cased in concrete and spaced at an average of 17m from West to East.

800mm x 1500mm box column made

Flange plate

Web plate 70

1097mm x 305mm Girder

Existing asbestos corrugated roof sheeting. *All asbestos will be removed and replaced for future development.

Roofing The roof is made of asbestos roof sheeting which is held and supported by the steel portal frame and rectangular steel rafters at approximately 6m intervals with perpendicular steel purlins at 1.5m intervals.

Reinforced steel frame

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 5.6 [PAGE 70-71] COMPONENTS OF STEEL STRUCTURE & ROOF Reinforced steel rafters connected to asbestos roofing By Author (2020).

Chimney Stack

Dust Collectors

Generator Room

Lower Bunker bay

Turbo-Alternator

4 3

FIGURE 5.7 [UP] CONCEPTUAL INTERNAL GROUND FLOOR ILLUSTRATION By Author (2020).

condensors

Boiler House

Coal Bunker

7 8

Bunker Bay

6 9

Pumping bay/ Hotwell

House

8 10

Turbo House

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 5.8 [UP] CONCEPTUAL INTERNAL FIRST & SECOND FLOOR ILLUSTRATION By Author (2020).

Existing Floor Plans 1 2

3 4 5 6

Chimney Stack

Electrical Room

Generator Room

Boiler House

Bunker Bay

20m

40m

60m

FIGURE 5.9 [UP] GROUND FLOOR ILLUSTRATION By Author (2020).

Pumping Bay

Turbo-Alternator condensors

Offices

Switch House

5 8 7

FIGURE 6.0 [UP] FIRST FLOOR ILLUSTRATION By Author (2020).

20m

40m

60m

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Reusability| Principles & Strategies

FIGURE 6.1 [UP] BRUTAL FORM: Characterizing the visual impact of APS By Author (2020).

The Athlone Power Station holds a lot of potential for sustainable methods and systems; by preserving most of its contents, fewer resources and materials are used and gone to waste. As a designer, it is imperative to find the correct equilibrium for what to preserve and what to destroy and what to consider for future implementation. The following section unpacks the different strategies and principles associated with the adapative reuse of the Athlone Power Station.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Adaptive Reuse Principles Structural Integrity: Examining the condition of existing structure.

Memory: Recognize social-cultural significance and emotional 78

FIGURE 6.2 [P78-79] ADAPTIVE REUSE PRINCIPLES: By Author (2020).

Sustainability: Acknowledge current standards of sustainability

Flexibility: Accept inevitable change

Authenticity: Express abstraction and interpretation without replication or mimicry

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Adaptive Reuse Strategies

INSERTION

There are many strategies for the adaptive reuse of Athlone Power Station to make it an innovative source of socialization for the surrounding neighbourhoods and create sustainable city living through the promoting of old buildings with new technology. Francoise Astorg Bollack categorizes the different ways in which a building can be readapted into 5 strategic forms being: ‘insertion’, ‘parasite’, ‘wrap’, ‘juxtaposition’ and ‘weaving’ (Bollack, 2013). Insertion Insertion investigates the re-configuration and rejuvenation of the interior

PARASITE

spaces while the original façade and the old building structure remains are maintained in order to sustain its history. In this way, the intact remains define the physical aspect while the inserted interior defines the spatial place-making aspects. Parasite The parasite option investigations the addition of a structure in any direction that attaches itself to the host building and mutually benefits from the formed relationship. The old stay recognisable whilst the new attached form provides a contemporary twist to the overall aesthetics. 80

FIGURE 6.3 [ABOVE] ADAPTIVE REUSE STRATEGIES: Based on Francoise Astorg Bollack principles. Illustrated by Author (2020).

WRAP

Wrap The wrap method is concerned with covering the old building with a new fabric, often forming a double skin, either through its entirety or just a portion of the existing to be displayed, depending on the overall

JUXTAPOSITION

aesthetic goal. Juxtaposition The juxtaposition strategy is somewhat like the parasite; it is an additional form that resides beside the existing building without â&#x20AC;&#x153;touchingâ&#x20AC;? the existing. The existing and new form can be connected via a minimal connection such as a bridge as opposed to sharing a structural wall. Weaving The weaving typology investigates the patching of semi-ruined buildings with new technology to form a whole building.

WEAVING

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 6.4 [RIGHT] ADAPTIVE REUSE STRATEGIES (CONT.): Based on Francoise Astorg Bollack principles. Illustrated by Author (2020).

INSERTION

JUXTAPOSITION

Intervened Interior

Inserted Interiors

Installed Interiors

Qualities of the existing building are revealed and are

A close relationship is established between existing and

Is an intervention that leaves the existing as is and builds

translated into the new design.

new interior. A new element is inserted into the space that

an interior independent to the existing. The existing and

may be of a different function

interior coexist independently of each other.

Exterior

FIGURE 6.5 [PAGE] ADAPTIVE REUSE INTERIOR STRATEGIES: Illustrated by Author (2020).

Exterior

Interior reuse strategies

FIGURE 6.6 [PAGE] SECTION 02 & REFERENCE PLAN Illustrating minimal interior interventions By Author (2020).

There are different strategies when it comes to adapting interior spaces; the previous page highlights some of these strategies from a minimal change to a complete change of the interior spaces. The section below further emphasises how fluid possibilities lie in these strategies, where certain spaces can be converted while other spaces could remain as the finished interior. The section further combines the adaptive reuse of juxtapositioning

The next section will begin to use all these principles and

as a possibility to extend the power station into a

analysis of the power station site to inform design ideas.

contemporary form that operates independently Interior/Exterior Intervention

SECTION

NTS 0m

10m

20m

30m

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

40m 83

PROGRESSION PROGRESSION PROGRESSION PROGRESSION “Progression” describes the assembling stage of

production within the industrial process. In this section, the information is being gathered and the narrative of a social infrastructure is being assembled into an architectural response. 84

PROGRESSION PROGRESSION PROGRESSION PROGRESSION

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

The Architecture| Empowerment Summary

Urban Concept Through this analysis, I realized, there seems to be this notion of ‘empowerment’. An empowerment of the turbo-alternators and machinery, over the empowerment of the social user and the spatial. Thus, the architecture of this adapted turbine hall needs to speak on the equal empowerment of the existing hard infrastructure (object), the empowerment of the society (social) and the empowerment of the terrain (spatial). To create a true social and interactive infrastructure. This brings back AbdouMaliq Simone’s critique on Social Infrastructure which can be interpreted as this intersection between the object, space, and the social (the person and their practices). By seeing the average human as ‘infrastructure’, the ‘object’ – representing the structural form does not have sole importance in cities but the persons and their adjoining urban space have as much importance. This looks at the notion of non-hierarchal, and non-conventional forces at play by treating the human as infrastructure.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 6.7 [PAGE] MASSING Illustrating forms on site By Author (2020).

Author’s Concept

AMS

Soft Infrastructure + Hard Infrastructure + Perception

LANGA EMPOWERMENT (SOCIAL)

Object, Spatial & Social inter-stitching

Social Infrastructure

Architecture of EMPOWERMENT

Objectal Empowerment

LANDSCAPE EMPOWERMENT (SPATIAL)

Smell from Athlone Treatment Plant

Social Empowerment Spatial Empowerment

Empowering the hard form 88

Empowering Empowering the the landscape communities

INFRASTRUCTURAL EMPOWERMENT (OBJECTAL)

FIGURE 6.8 [UP] FACTORS OF EMPOWERMENT Illustrating the ‘issues’ to tackle By Author (2020).

Vehicle noise from Settlers Way

ATHLONE EMPOWERMENT (SOCIAL)

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 6.9 [UP] CHIMNEY STACK MASSING By Author (2020).

Urban Praxis| Empowering the urban

Langa empowerment On an urban scale, Langa can be empowered through the notion of “eyes on the street”. When looking at the spacial configuration of Langa in the 1930s, it is evident that forms were constructed for passive observation on routes during a time of oppression in townships such as Langa. The observation was similar to the ideas of a panopticon. In this way, by using the notion of ‘eyes on the street’, a sense of empowerment is created out of an oppressive architecture. The passivie observation in this notion gives the streets an identity to function as a safe public space for community engagement. This idea could be passed onto the Athlone power station site to delivery a form of ownership, safety and communal

FIGURE 7.0 [UP] ORIGINAL SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN OF LANGA Survey General, 1925 By R. Smith (2014).

activity on the site, similar to the activations experienced on Washington Street during the Langa Open Street festival.

Notion of “eyes on the street”.

Using the coal storage for shops of locally produced goods. Working as a vehicle to help the community. Gathering space, a sense of coming together. Multi-use space with different degrees of change, as oppose to generic solution

Social Housing

Pedestrian route to Langa

4 *

Landscaping to symbolize, remember or celebrate what used to be a symbol of pollution (the Two Ladies of Athlone)

Cultural Centre for cultural identity of community Sports centre built from Athlone characteristics

Creating public spaces through the ideas of passive observation to allow Langa to spill into the site and create a sense of community and safety. DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 7.1 [UP] NOTIONS OF URBAN EMPOWERMENT The sketch above illustrates the spatial response to passive observation By Author (2020).

The ‘Langa Cultural Precinct’ is a vibrant cultural location,

WASHINGTON ST.

accessible and welcoming to residents and visitors alike.

LANGA CULTURAL PRECINCT

It is home to the Langa Open Street Festival where social

RUBUSANA AVE. BHUNGA AVE.

innovators, dancers, musicians, street vendors, artists,

JUNGLE WALK

performers and party goers all come together to celebrate

SANDILE AVE.

community and togetherness while taking back the streets!

BRINTON ST.

This has potential to filter into the Athlone site and empower

SIGNIFICANT SOCIAL SPACE

the narrative.

FIGURE 7.2 [RIGHT] LANGA OPEN STREET IMAGES By L. Kane (2015).

FIGURE 7.3 [UP] CONTEXTUAL MAP OF ACTIVE ROADS DURING LANGA OPEN STREET By Author (2020).

SANDILE AVE.

RUBUSANA AVE.

JUNGLE WALK

BRINTON ST.

WASHINGTON ST.

BHUNGA AVE.

LANGA

* SETTLERS WAY

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Athlone empowerment Athlone could be empowered by proposing the development of a sport centre in place of where the cooling towers used to sit on the Athlone Power station site. This idea was inspired by the Athlone Stadium narrative; the stadium played a large role in the identity of Athlone and the fight against apartheid and is seen by many living in Athlone as a landmark home to nonracial sport and nonracialism in Cape Town. During the 2010 world cup, the stadium was initially chosen and renovated to host matches but later was discarded in favour of building a more â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;camera-friendly aestheticâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Greenpoint Stadium over the slums around Athlone. Even though Athlone as prevailed, this stripped the opportunity for a developmental impact into Athlone and the potential upgrading of the surrounding area (including the possibility of creating a fan walk linking Athlone Railway station to an upgraded Athlone Stadium). Regardless, the people of Athlone take great ownership and pride in their soccer teams and stadium, an architecture on the Athlone Power Station site would empower that sense of ownership, nonracialism and sport infrastructures in townships. 94

FIGURE 7.4 [RIGHT] MAP Showing Athlone Stadium By Author (2020).

-ADIUM

ATHLONE ST -ATION

ATHLONE STATION/STADIUM

The curving structural elements of the Athlone Stadium can start to inform and represent an architecture in between ‘landscape’ and ‘city’. We can start to design a form that hints towards the empowerment of the people of Athlone but tries to emphasize the terrain through an embedded architecture - a spatial interaction.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 7.5 [RIGHT] DIAGRAMS Finding form inspiration from Athlone Stadium By Author (2020).

Empowering Hard Infrastructure through existing form.

FIGURE 7.6 [P96-97] URBAN EMPOWERMENT Summary of urban empowerment ideas By Author (2020).

Empowering Langa through social objectives

Empowering Athlone through sports

Empowering the landscape through form, APS and Table Mountain

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Landscape empowerment The influx of people to and from Cape Town via the N2 is always met with with recognition of two prominent landmarks; Table Mountain and Athlone Power Station. This is due to their scale and how they dominate over a settled landscape. By playing with the landscape, we can mimic this relationship to empower it. This is done by sinking and lifting forms and spaces so that the Turbine Hall remains dominant and clear in its stature from the N2. Sinking the new sport centre also creates a possible solution for the harsh winds and noise coming from the N2.

FIGURE 7.7 [P98-99] URBAN EMPOWERMENT Rendered massing By Author (2020).

Noise Management To reduce the noise caused by the vehicles on Settlers Way

New mixed-use Sport Centre

(N2), I propose the creation of a ‘barrier’ which could help in deflecting the sound upward as oppose to direct exposure. The ‘barrier’ is created by the slanted roof of the new form and by sinking the form to create a sub-level, allowing the sound to bounce up and over the public spaces. The images below and to the right demonstrates the horizontal movement of air when dealing with a sunken form

FIGURE 7.8 [PAGE] SPORT CENTRE DIAGRAMS Noise, form and terrain manipulation diagrams By Author (2020).

Bhunga Ave.

Settlers Way Cooling Tower Footprint

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

New mixed-use Sport Centre Bhunga Ave.

Settlers Way

Mix-Use Strategy| Urban Proposal

Exploring Strategies

The following explorations represent the urban spatial design ideas involved in representing different empowerment facets mentioned in the previous pages. These explorations aimed to test out different strategies for the development of the Athlone site.

Exploration 01: Exploration 01 focused on orientating the built form to one public space. The advantage of this is undisturbed views of the Table Mountain and easy access from a central point. 100

FIGURE 7.9 [P100-101] URBAN MASSING An exploration through urban design iterations By Author (2020).

Exploration 02:

Exploration 03:

Exploration 02 creates a narrative from start to end. The

Exploration 03 is similar to exploration 02; it tries to create a

destination is the public space at the end of the journey after

public stretch having characteristics of a modern courtyard

travelling though variations of empowerment. The emphasism

but having less built forms on the north face to allow ample

is more on the open spatial qualities, representing the social

light. The South face is heavily built up and blocked off from

aspects, rather than the heavy forms.

the southern environment

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

101

The Urban Strategic Structure Plan

Public & Private Parking

To conclude the notion of empowerment on an urban scale, the strategic plans aims to propose what Athlone could develop into in the near future. It is a mixed-use district consisting of housing, a garden trail, a cultural centre, a sports centre, the Athlone Refuge Transfer Station and various retail and office opportunities. New Transit Station

Cultural Centre

Commercial Shed

IRT

Sports Centre

Sculpture Garden

ARTS

New Athlone site underpass

Retail Offices

Retail

Offices

Housing

Parking

Thermal Energy Storage

102

Existing Hazendal Underpass

Proposed street parking on Jan Smuts Routes and public space favourably orientated for sunlight and wonderful view of Table Mountain

Public Entrance off Jan Smuts

Langa footpath

Social Housing

al rci Garden trail e mm Cohed S

Pedestrian and Cycling Route

Cultural Sports

ARTS Private Private entrance on Bhunga Ave. Private

FIGURE 8.0 [P102-103] STRATEGIC PLAN By Author (2020).

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Footpath to Bridgetown

STRATEGIC PLAN

NTS

103

ACCESS & NETWORKS 1. Residential Access off Jan Smuts 2. Pedestrian Access off Jan Smuts 3. Transit Station 4. Hazendal underpass 5. Bhunga Ave. private access 6. Bridgetown pedestrian bridge

1. RESIDENTIAL

7. Langa pedestrian route

2. PEDESTRIAN 3. IRT

7. LANGA 4. HAZENDAL

02 02

5. PRIVATE & SERVICE Public Parking Private Parking

104

6. BRIDGETOWN

Jan Smuts

Settlers Way REF MAP

Sidewalk near Pinelands 15m approx.

Jan Smuts 12m approx.

Pedestrian Access 11m approx.

Train Station Route 4m approx.

Train platform

SECTION

NTS

Proposed Hazendale underpass

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

105

Access

Major Functions

1. Proposed new main access is off Jan Smuts for the public and tenants with a pedestrian route from pinelands. Existing entrance on Bhunga Ave can be reserved for service entry and employees. 2. Proposed Hazendal to Athlone underpass. 3. Existing pedestrian bridge to Bridgetown

Pedestrian Route to Langa

106

1. Turbine Hall Cultural Centre 2. Sports Centre

ARTS

Cultural Centre

Commercial Opportunities

IRT

1. Converting the coal storage adjacent to the Turbine Hall into a Shed for the selling of local goods and crafts 2. Establishing a commercial strip on the Langa pedestrian route such as food stalls 3. Establishing retail opportunities within the new sports complex

1. Establishing a Transit station from people entering the site via existing rail line. 2. Establishing a Myciti bus stop and route on Jan Smuts

Sports Centre

Sports (cont.) and Office/ Retail

Jan Smuts

SECTION

NTS

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 8.1 [P106-107] STRATEGIC SECTION Through Public Space By Author (2020).

107

Cultural Landscape| Turbine Hall Proposal

1. Cultural Centre â&#x20AC;&#x153;A cultural centre is an organization, building or complex that promotes culture and arts and even sports. Cultural centres can be neighbourhood community arts organizations, private facilities, government-sponsored, or activist-run.â&#x20AC;? - Wikipedia

The following section looks at how this architecture of empowerment influences the internal spaces and configuration of the Turbine Hall. I am proposing that the turbine hall be converted into a cultural centre for the purpose of social stitching and empowerment of the community.

108

FIGURE 8.2 [P108-109] A SOCIAL TURBINE HALL By Author (2020).

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

109

Issue Hard Infrastructure

1. Disconnected Surroundings As mentioned in the beginning, Langa, Athlone and Pinelands are residential areas with great social-economical differences and inequality. One end is characterized by affluence whilst the other end is characterized by poverty. The declining urban environment of the

Soft Infrastructures (Cultural Centre)

Athlone Power Station sits as a grey area or a space of absurdity that only contributes to this divide of these residential areas. Through its redevelopment, the old factory holds the potential for social insertion and spatial transformation, to correct the dichotomy between the residential areas.

2. Revitalization The power station is in desperate need of a revitalization, one in which pays respects to its past inception, but focuses on its subsequent prospects. The factory symbolizes an outdated form of production, one

Pinelands Social Infrastructure

characterized by pollution, utilitarianism, mono-functionality and antisocialization. 110

FIGURE 8.3 [RIGHT] SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE How cultural centre can influence APS By Author (2020).

Athlone

Langa

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 8.4 [UP] CULTURE DEPICTION By Alessandro Iovino (2020).

111

Cultural Centre Goal

Empower Social Stitching

Empower Hard Change

Empower Landscape Influx

The centre aims to eliminate the idea

The notion over the cultural centre

By making the turbine hall an accessible

of the Athlone Power Station being

begins to target the principles behind

public building, people will be drawn to

the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;final pieceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in separating the

hard infrastructure and start to suggest

the site; this allows us to play with the

neighbouring areas. The cultural centre

the amalgamation of these functions

relationship between the power station and

thus becomes a building welcoming

in future developments of industrial

table mountain as mentioned in the previous

different aspects of the surrounding

buildings.

section. The centre begins put in place these

sites. 112

FIGURE 8.5 [UP] CULTURAL GOAL DEPICTIONS By Author (2020).

opportunities

A Cultural Centre might contain the necessary social infrastructures required to connect the neighbourhoods spatially and physically and bring this notion of empowerment.

FIGURE 8.6 [UP] APS CONCEPTUAL RENDER By Author (2020).

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

113

Cultural Landscape Concept| The Concept of Zoning

Empowering the people A social infrastructure can be seen as this equal stitching between the object, the spatial and the social. The social represents the people and all their practices; in a more contextual approach, the social architecture looks at empowering less fortunate neighbourhoods like Langa and all of its facets worth empowering. My concept for the adaptive reuse of the turbine hall is therefor divide the building into different zones that could be used to empower the Langa community. These zones are meant to represent what Langa is and what it tries to achieve in the future. In this way, the power stationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s narrative of being the final piece of separation changes to become the final pieces of connection.

114

FIGURE 8.7 [UP] INTERNAL PERSPECTIVE Conceptualizing the cultural centre By Author (2020).

SOCIAL

ZONE 1 ZONE 2

SPATIAL

ZONE 2

ZONE 1

LANGA CULTURAL LANDSCAPE (SOCIAL EMPOWERMENT)

SOCIAL OBJECTAL

ZONE 3

ZONE 4

ZONE 3 ZONE 4

The imagery above demonstrates how the ‘social’, is the focus of this notion of empowerment for the turbine hall. By dividing the turbine hall into four different zones, four variations of what could be used to empower Langa’s cultural and prospective landscape is created. This would then enforce the programming and the architecture as a whole. DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 8.8 [UP] CONCEPT Empowering the Turbine Hall By Author (2020).

115

The Zones PASSIVE OBSERVATION ZONE 1

GENERATOR ROOM

ZONE 2

BOILER HOUSE

PUMPING BAY

OFFICE

BUNKER HOUSE

TURBO HOUSE

SWITCH HOUSE

The plan represented on this page indicates the proposed zones across the turbine hall. 0m

20m

40m

60m

The plan labels are based on the existing zones/functions of the hall, refer to Figure 1.9 on page 64 for a recap.

116

FIGURE 8.9 [UP] ZONING CONCEPT Dividing floors into zones By Author (2020).

ZONE 3

ZONE 4

Blocking A-A By placing zone 1 and zone 2 in the current position, it allows the spaces to spill out into the public environment north of the Turbine Hall. Zone 2 then becomes this extension of the outdoor public environment.

Blocking B-B Both the North and the South facade become activated with the reblocking of zone 1 and zone 2 and placing them on opposite faces. Zone 2 starts to suggest the utilization of the southern space, near the existing entrance and the highway.

ZONE 1 ZONE 2

Blocking C-C

ZONE 3

By placing zone 1 and zone 2 in the current position, a social hub is created on the southern side, whilst zone

ZONE 4

3 & 4 creates a harsh boundary on the FIGURE 9.0 [UP] ZONE MASS BLOCKING Exploring different arrangements By Author (2020).

northern public space.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

117

Understanding the zones ZONE 1: Learning

ZONE 2: Public Concourse/ Isithebe

Zone 1 speaks about past times and what we can learn

Zone 2 speaks to the idea of place. Where people come together

from it through the empowerment of books and teachings.

and occupation occurs spontaneously. It is the table in which people gather around.

ZONE 3: Rationality and Expression

ZONE 4: Growth

Zone 3 speaks to the idea of rationality and control, very

Zone 4 speaks to the economic growth notion of Langa, through

fixed or planned out spaces for the empowerment of ex-

skill improvement, entrepreneurship and the future development of

pression.

IT, offices and co-working spaces.

118

Concluding the zones What these zones have in common is that they all represent a piece of a puzzle of Langa; from past to present to future. As a result, the turbine halls and the power station together with the proposed sport centre as a whole changes from the final piece of separation to the final piece connecting the surrounding site - this is the cultural landscape.

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 9.1 [UP] FILTER MASSING OF APS By Author (2020).

119

4 OUTPUT OUTPUT OUTPUT

OUTPUT

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Outputâ&#x20AC;? describes the product stage of production within the industrial process. In this section, I begin to indicate what this architectural response may look like for

the turbine hall. This section informs design ideas to what a true social infrastructure could be. 120

4 OUTPUT OUTPUT OUTPUT

OUTPUT

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

121

Cultural Landscape Strategy| Proposed

Programming Outdoor interactive auditorium

Auditorium

ECD

Info desk

Gift shop

Learning exhibition

Coffee shop

Library

Public Concourse

Performance Space

Food Outlet

Sculpture/ Frame/ Performance Gallery and exhibition

Multipurpose dome

Offices

Co-working spaces

Start-up Companies

Workshops

122

ZONE 1

Deliveries

ZONE 2

ZONE 3

ZONE 4 FIGURE 9.2 [UP] PROGRAM STRATEGY By Author (2020).

Alternative Programme Explorations Exploration 01 Exploration 01 tried to create this symmetry of a thoroughfare in which the building would open itself from South facade to North facade. This would ideally be the primary movement allowing the public to feed into ‘rooms’ before ending outside into the reflective zone (public space).

OFFICE RECEPTION

Exploration 01

LOADING BAY SERVICES

Exploration 02 GREEN LIGHTWELL

Exploration 02 what an organised chaos. I tried to use the West face as the main entrance and use most of the ground floor as gallery space. The core, being the auditorium would then be used for controlled functions and movement upwards. This core would thus divide the floor segments.

AUDITORIUM LIBRARY PERFORMANCE SPACE VIEW DECK

Exploration 02

Exploration 03

GALLERY SPACE STORAGE

Exploration 03 kept the notion of a thoroughfare, but rather experimented light by incorporating an atrium.

CAFE/RESTAURANT

All of these options were done before coming to the notion of empowerment. Blocking A-A

FIGURE 9.3 [UP] PROGRAM EXPLORATIONS By Author (2020).

ATRIUM

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Exploration 03

123

GROUND FLOOR PLAN MAIN ENTRANCE Auditorium

Gift Shop

Coffee

Ex. Auditorium ECD

Foyer

Co Reception

Programming Strategy

Public Concourse

Sculptural End

Bar

The ground floor plan showcased

Gallery

on this page illustrates roughly the positioning of each function.

Gal

I believe these programmes give

Gallery

Multi-purpose dome

character to the zones marked on the previous page. In this new programming, I am proposing that the primary entrance be from the

Performance Studio

Outdoor Gallery

Gallery

North end through the new public outdoor space while the secondary entrance is on the west face directly into the public concourse.

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

The Third entrance, which is the existing entrance, would function as a private entrance off Bhunga avenue.

124

BHUNGA AVENUE

FOYER CAFE COURTYARD

e Shop

LIBRARY ECD

ZONE 1

EXT. AUDITORIUM

Library

ourtyard

INT. AUDITORIUM SECOND FOYER

ZONE 2

l Staircase Start

Delivery Storage Facilities

llery

Gallery Storage Facilities

PUBLIC CONCOURSE

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

Public Concourse

Gallery

OFFICE STORAGE GALLERIES/EXHIB. DOME PERFORMANCE

Office Gallery

Office

ZONE 3

20m

30m

40m

Ground Floor Plan

FIGURE 9.4 [P124-125] PROGRAM EXPLORATIONS Ground Floor programme plans By Author (2020).

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure Main Entrance 2nd Entrance

125

Public Concourse (Void)

Amongst the zone 3 narrative of expression, the first floor takes a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;freedom of

Circulation

expressionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; approach; the idea is for this

Open Gallery

floor to be open plan to allow invited artist to express their art and methodological approach to space. If we were to imagine the fixed displays on ground floor to be free; the gallery spaces on first floor would

Dome (Roof)

Open Gallery Performance (Void)

Open Gallery

be by ticket purchase, as this floor would give a more personal and introspective

Open Gallery

views of the artist. The multipurpose dome proposed, operates on ground floor but pierces through the first floor, allowing a degree of interaction between the levels. This would mean altering the first floor voids in a way that accommodates the new proposal. 126

FIGURE 9.5 [P126-127] PROGRAM EXPLORATIONS First Floor programme plans By Author (2020).

DOME PERFORMANCE GALLERIES/EXHIB.

Circulation

Gallery (Void)

Zone 4 Workshop

Open Gallery

20m

30m

40m DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

First Floor Plan

127

Void Self- Observing Gallery

Storage

Void

The floors above first floor are mezzanine levels. Two of which are proposed to be operable by the public whilst one could be used for the servicing of an interactive display/ exhibition. On 0m

level two, I have decided to continue the no-

20m

30m

tion of expression, except, these galleries are

40m

Second Floor Plan

smaller, more personal and retrospective. I imagine a play on scale, from ground floor, to this floor that deals with personal interactions with Void

the galleries. In this way, zone three is characterized by expression on three different notions: 1. Framed experience on ground level. 2. Artists experience on first level

Interactive Gallery

Ramp

Interactive Space

Ramp

Interactive Gallery

3. Personal experience on mezzanine level Void

128

FIGURE 9.6 [P128-129] PROGRAM EXPLORATIONS Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth & Sixth floor plans By Author (2020).

20m

30m

40m

Third Floor Plan

FOURTH & FIFTH FLOOR PLAN

Void

Interactive Displays (Private)

(4th Floor)

Interactive Displays (Private)

Reception

Rock Climbing

(3rd Floor)

Void

20m

30m

40m

Fourth Floor Plan

Void

(6th Floor)

View Deck

Top of Ramp

Restaurant

Top of Ramp

(3rd Floor)

(5th Floor)

Social Space

20m

30m

40m

Fifth Floor Plan

Void

Change Rooms (5th Floor)

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure 0m

20m

30m

40m

Sixth Floor Plan

129

EIGHTH FLOOR (PRIVATE)

The final public level concludes the entire experi-

SEVENTH FLOOR

ence with an interactive architecture and views of Table Mountain from a proposed balcony.

SIXTH FLOOR

The idea on the level is to convert the existing coal bunker into an interactive display screen

FIFTH FLOOR

that allows people on this level to interact with

FOURTH FLOOR

each other and the displays. I believe an inter-

THIRD FLOOR

active exhibition represent some form of social infrastructure; this is because the system of the

SECOND FLOOR

machine representing hard infrastructure works best when the user, representing soft infrastructure, interacts with it, thus forming a true social infrastructure.

FIRST FLOOR

MEZZANINE FLOOR 0

130

FIGURE 9.7 [RIGHT] SECTIONAL RENDER Section view of all level programming By Author (2020).

GROUND LEVEL (PUBLIC)

Coal Bunker

To conclude the proposed strategies, the section drawing below illustrates the ideas put forward in this section of the study. The next and final design section summarizes ideas in moving forward with my project, towards the language of social, objectal and spatial empowerment and the empowerment of a true social infrastructure. For the purpose of the document, these ideas will be described under four main components: 1. Reusability 2. Interactivity 3. Hyper-Diversity 4. Energy

FIGURE 9.8 [BELOW] CONCEPTUAL SECTION NTS By Author (2020).

EXHIBITION/ RESTAURANT EXHIBITION

EXISTING BOILER

GALLERY

OPEN GALLERY

2 COURTYARD

CAFE

OUTSIDE GALLERY

PUBLIC CONCOURSE

EXHIBITION

MULTI-PURPOSE ARENA

GALLERY

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

131

1st

Re:Reusability| One

Altering the Facade

Reference Ground Floor Plan

The urban strategy in the previous section indicated that the space north of the turbine hall is a vital public space in the passive observation narrative. To respond to this active space, I am proposing the reusable alteration of the facade to allow it to spill out and interact with people from the public space. This is done by cutting back the new frontage from the existing wall to

1st

form pockets for multiple uses. The roof of the generator room will be cut open to form skylights, this is possible because this part of the turbine hall is made of a steel frame and enclosed with cladded in red brick. 132

FIGURE 9.9 [RIGHT] EXISTING VS PROPOSED & REF. PLAN Facade alteration By Author (2020).

Existing dust collectors

Proposed facade alteration

FIGURE 10.0 [PAGE] PROPOSED Facade alteration render & section illustrations, NTS By Author (2020).

Section - Existing

This render demonstrates the effectiveness and potentials presented by cutting-back the new frontage. Section - Proposed

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

133

Interactivity| Two

Interacting with the Facade

Cut-plan showing interactive facade and skylights

In addition so cutting-back mentioned on the previous page, I am proposing to alter the facade above the existing generator room into an interactive architecture. The idea is to replace the brickwork with a perforated metal panel. The perforations would be covered by rotating metal discs that open and close depending on the wind force naturally generated on site. The wind would turn these covers through internally and externally to create an interactive facade. From the outside, the facade would be moving or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dancingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;; from the inside, the facade would be displaying a play between light and dark. Ventilation would not be an issue due to the skylights proposed. 134

FIGURE 10.1 [PAGE] PROPOSED New facade location perspective and plan By Author (2020).

Render showing location of the perforated metal facade

1st

Metal discs are envisioned to rotate under the influence of wind, controlling the perforated openings.

Proposed perforated panel FIGURE 10.2 [PAGE] PROPOSED Axo & Detail functioning of wind induced facade By Author (2020).

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Cut-plan showing interactive facade and skylights

135

As these discs rotate and create the light sequence, the idea is for them to let off sound as they open and close, which can be interpreted as music. The facade was inspired by a traditional Xhosa instrument called the Umrhubhe Bow. The flute like instrument has been used in the Xhosa culture for centuries and has been made popular in the past decade by Langa born, Dizu Plaatjies, who has kept this dying tradition of playingt he umrhubhe alive. The facade was thus inspired but the curvature form of the mouthbow and its overall functioning. Thus, this new proposed facade tries to ‘dance’ and ‘sing’ in relation to the Xhosa culture and the empowerment of Langa. Furthermore, the illustrations on this page indicate how this facade is actually a continuation of the culture and history symbolized on the floor levels. therefor the facade becomes a symbol of the people, as its viewed from the N2. 136

FIGURE 10.3 [PAGE] FACADE ILLUSTRATIONS Empowering the facade through the floor programming By Author (2020).

Such a facade can be seen as a metonym for social infrastructure; this is because there is this intersection between the object and the social that engages with the system. It shows how through the rethinking of social infrastructure, an architecture can emerge where physical and social interaction is created between people using the space and between the built form. Nonetheless, The utilization of such interactive systems can possibly shape individualsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; encounters which could effectively affect their behavioural attributes; apart from the social cohesion through its operation and public influence, such a facade can create service functions such as control ventilation, sun visors or even heat transfers.

FIGURE 10.4 [PAGE] PROPOSED Courtyard Render showing interactive facade By Author (2020).

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137

138

FIGURE 10.31 [138 - 139] APS RENDERED ELEVATIONS Empowering the facade from street view By Author (2020).

Polycarbonate roofing Asbestos sheeting

North Elevation

20m

40m

South Elevation

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

139

Hyper-Diversity| Three

The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;iceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rink Earlier in this study, it was mentioned that perception also plays a role in the rethinking of social infrastructures; one of these perceptions was hyper-diversity which spoke about the integration of programmes not thought to be integratable such as hard and soft functions or work and play areas; there is always this boundary that separates the two functions. In the turbine First

hall, I aim to add programmes that represent a sense of hyper-diversity which speaks to notion of amalgamating hard infrastructure with soft in-

Ground

frastructure.

Proposed Space

The proposed multi-purpose dome attempts to do exactly that; the dome functions as a venue for activities, similar to the performance space but for a larger crowd needing more space. When its not in use for any specifiic event, it is intended 140 to function as an ice skating rink. FIGURE 10.5 [UP] PROPOSED Multi-purpose dome in place in Axo view By Author (2020).

Multipurpose dome

Lattice super structure

Reference Ground Floor Plan

I chose this function because it is so irregular and so radical that it just might work as a direct metonym for the relation between work and play, and hard and soft infrastructures. It also

Sheeting Support Frame

presents an opportunity for a new experience for people living in and out Cape Town. Children, specifically those in Langa, were at the heart of this idea; learning about Langa has created my interpretation that many childen from parts of Lanaga are inquisitive, love to explore, love to learn and to experience. This was evident in the street culture, the notion of exploring, wondering and experiencing. I believe such a diverse function could lead many people to want to experience such a programme in an industrial

Polycarbonate Sheeting

building.

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FIGURE 10.6 [UP] PROPOSED Exploded Axonometric View By Author (2020).

141

Rather than a traditional ice skating rink, the idea is to use synthetic ice polymer as an alternative to real ice. This synthetic ice material comes in rectangular panels that are interlocked on a smooth leveled surface to form the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ice rinkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. After use, the panels can easily be taken apart and stored, returning the floor to its main function.

142

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FIGURE 10.7 [UP] RENDER Conceptual view of the multi-purpose/ Ice Rink By Author (2020).

143

Energy| Four

Energy Storage Since Athlone Power Station was operating as a coal burning factory, it would be a strong notion of sustainable development if it to be revitalized and continued as a source of clean power as it could have a large impact on the neighbouring communities. I would like to introduce incorporating Electrical Thermal Energy as a way of continuing Athlone Power Stationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legacy. Electrical Thermal Energy Storage (ETES) is a technological process in which energy is produced through the heating or cooling of a medium (such as molten salt) and then stored in storage facilities for later use (Schumacher, 2019). The energy stored can be used for heating and cooling applications and generating electricity by means of turning steam turbines. It stands as a sustainable approach to energy production, cost-competitiveness with multiple revenue streams, and flexibility (Barmeire, 2017). 144

FIGURE 10.8 [RIGHT] ELECTRICITY TO HEAT STORAGE PROCESS: By X-Malta (2019).

1. Collection 2. Conversion 3. Storage 4. Conversion 5. Distribution

By adopting clean energy strategies, the Athlone Power Station changes its narrative from a symbol of pollution to a symbol of the future. This idea empowers the hard infrastructure to create a true social infrastructure because unlike the many other examples mentioned on what a true social infrastructure is, an energy storage system physically and deliberately combines the hard infrastructure with the soft infrastructure to characterize the true city and mend this dichotomia. My proposal is therefore to incorporate solar panels all over the site which could produce and stores energy in energy storage systems located in the turbine hall.

Energy Storage units in attic

Solar Panels

DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Energy Storage units

FIGURE 10.9 [UP] ENERGY AXO Visualization of energy storage possible placement By Author (2020).

FIGURE 11.0 [UP] ATTIC Visualization of the interior attic of the turbine hall By Author (2020).

145

Output Conclusion|

This document has attempted to reimagine Athlone Power Station as this mixed-use node of endless opportunities, without neglecting the opportunities of hard infrastructure, both in form and function. Returning to AbdouMaliq Simoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s notion of inter-stitching the object, spatial and social aspects, these design ideas have tried to show an empowerment between the three factors; 1. The empowerment of the social - being Athlone and Langa. 2. The empowerment of the object - being the power stationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new uses. 3. The empowerment of the spatial - through the manipulation of space and terrain. Moving forward, this adaptive reuse design will try to achieve this notion of a true social infrastructure by obscuring the lines between hard and soft spaces and attempt to locate a centre ground to impact the city positively and productively. 146

FIGURE 11.1 [146-147 ] THE FUTURE OF ATHLONE? Jan Smuts view of the proposed Athlone Cultural Station By Author (2020).

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Author: Elonga, J., 2020

Figures

Figure 1.1: Elonga, J., 2020. The brutal conceptual perspective 01. [image].

Figure 2.4 Elonga, J., 2020. Perception. [image].

Figure 1.2: Elonga, J., 2020. The brutal conceptual perspective 02. [image].

Figure 2.5 Elonga, J., 2020. Perception Cont. [image].

Figure 1.3: Elonga, J., 2020. Contextual map. [image].

Figure 2.6 Elonga, J., 2020. Internal. [image].

Figure 1.4: Elonga, J., 2020. West. [image].

Figure 2.7 Bjarke Ingels Group, 2014. Amager Bakke Waste-ToEnergy Plant. [image] Available at: <https://www.dezeen. com/2014/07/12/movie-interview-bjarke-ingels-bigamager-bakke-power-plant-ski-slope/> [Accessed 30 June 2020].

Figure 1.5: Elonga, J., 2020. The brutal conceptual perspective 03. [image]. Figure 1.6: Elonga, J., 2020. Monster in the city. [image]. Figure 1.7: Elonga, J., 2020. Realism Express. [image]. Figure 1.8: Elonga, J., 2020. Engine Inhabitation. [image]. Figure 1.9: Mason, T., 2012. Screen Prints. [image] Available at: <https://lovelyjolie.wordpress.com/2012/05/09/tristrammason13/> [Accessed 30 June 2020]. Figure 2.0: Elonga, J., 2020. Adderley Street. [image]. Figure 2.1: Elonga, J., 2020. Spatial Injustice. [image]. Figure 2.2 Elonga, J., 2020. Roofing. [image]. Figure 2.3 Elonga, J., 2020. Delivery Bay. [image]. 150

Figure 3.3 Elonga, J., 2020. Brutal Form. [image]. Figure 3.4 du Plessis, E., 2010. Newly Opened N2 1962.. [image] Available at: <https://www.flickr.com/photos/8270787@ N07/8104899058> [Accessed 30 October 2020]. Figure 3.5 Elonga, J., 2020. Artistic Site Map. [image]. Figure 3.6 Elonga, J., 2020. Analysis 01. [image]. Figure 3.7 Elonga, J., 2020. Analysis 02. [image].

Figure 2.8 Hustace, B., 2018. Marcy Wong Donn Logan Architects. [online] Marcy Wong Donn Logan Architects. Available at: <https://wonglogan.com/#/ford-assembly-buildingcultural-center/> [Accessed 1 July 2020].

Figure 3.8 Elonga, J., 2020. Street Compilation. [image].

Figure 2.9 FARR ASSOCIATES, 2009. Powerhouse High â&#x20AC;&#x201D; FARR ASSOCIATES. [online] FARR ASSOCIATES. Available at: <https://www.farrside.com/powerhouse-high> [Accessed 1 July 2020].

Figure 4.0 Elonga, J., 2020. Site Analysis 02. [image].

Figure 3.0 Tzannes, 2019. Gallery Of Tzannes Unveils New Additions To Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Irving Street Brewery - 1. [online] ArchDaily. Available at: <https://www.archdaily.com/930409/ tzannes-unveils-new-additions-to-sydneys-irving-streetbrewery/5df8fcb13312fdf30800000e-tzannes-unveilsnew-additions-to-sydneys-irving-street-brewery-image> [Accessed 1 July 2020].

Figure 4.2 Elonga, J., 2020. Site Analysis 03. [image].

Figure 3.1 Elonga, J., 2020. Industrial Techne. [image].

Figure 4.5 Elonga, J., 2020. Site Components. [image].

Figure 3.2 Elonga, J., 2020. Brutal Force. [image].

Figure 3.9 Elonga, J., 2020. Site Analysis 01. [image].

Figure 4.1 Elonga, J., 2020. Terrain Section. [image].

Figure 4.3 Elonga, J., 2020. Site Analysis 04. [image]. Figure 4.4 Elonga, J., 2020. Site Analysis 05. [image].

Figure 4.6 Elonga, J., 2020. Map Images. [image]. Figure 4.7 Elonga, J., 2020. Conceptual Form. [image]. Figure 4.8 Elonga, J., 2020. Axo. [image]. Figure 4.9 Elonga, J., 2020. Section 01. [image]. Figure 5.0 Elonga, J., 2020. Conceptual Plan. [image]. Figure 5.1 Van Haght, G., n.d. Athlone Power Station. [image] Available at: <https://crazylittlething.co.za/portfolio/the-old-athlone-powerstation/> [Accessed 30 June 2020]. Figure 5.2 Elonga, J., 2020. Wall Segment. [image]. Figure 5.3 Elonga, J., 2020. West Facade Elevation. [image]. Figure 5.4 Elonga, J., 2020. Wall And Floor Composition. [image]. Figure 5.5 Elonga, J., 2020. Parallel Projection Section. [image]. Figure 5.6 Elonga, J., 2020. Components Of Steel Structure & Roof. [image]. Figure 5.7 Elonga, J., 2020. Conceptual Internal Ground Floor Illustration. [image].

Figure 5.8 Elonga, J., 2020. Conceptual Internal First & Second Floor Illustration. [image].

Figure 5.9 Elonga, J., 2020. Ground Floor Illustration. [image]. Figure 6.0 Elonga, J., 2020. First Floor Illustration. [image]. Figure 6.1 Elonga, J., 2020. Brutal Form. [image]. Figure 6.2 Elonga, J., 2020. Adaptive Reuse Principles. [image]. Figure 6.3 Elonga, J., 2020. Adaptive Reuse Strategies. [image]. Figure 6.4 Elonga, J., 2020. Adaptive Reuse Strategies (Cont.). [image]. Figure 6.5 Elonga, J., 2020. Adaptive Reuse Interior Strategies. [image]. Figure 6.6 Elonga, J., 2020. Section 02 & Reference Plan. [image]. Figure 6.7 Elonga, J., 2020. Massing. [image]. Figure 6.8 Elonga, J., 2020. Factors Of Empowerment. [image]. Figure 6.9 Elonga, J., 2020. Chimney Stack Massing. [image]. Figure 7.0 Smith, R., 2014. Social Housing As Heritage : Case Study : Langa Hostels : Whose Values And What Significance?. [image] Available at: <https://open.uct.ac.za/bitstream/ handle/11427/13066/thesis_ebe_2014_smith_r. pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y> [Accessed 30 October 2020].

Figure 7.2 Kane, L., 2015. FUTURE CAPE TOWN L The Day That Langa Opened Her Streets. [online] OUR FUTURE CITIES. Available at: <http://futurecapetown.com/2015/05/future-cape-town-l-the-daythat-langa-opened-her-streets/> [Accessed 30 October 2020]. Figure 7.3 Elonga, J., 2020. Contextual Map Of Active Roads During Langa Open Street. [image]. Figure 7.4 Elonga, J., 2020. Map. [image]. Figure 7.5 Elonga, J., 2020. Diagrams. [image]. Figure 7.6 Elonga, J., 2020. Urban Empowerment. [image]. Figure 7.7 Elonga, J., 2020. Urban Empowerment. [image]. Figure 7.8 Elonga, J., 2020. Sport Centre Diagrams. [image]. Figure 7.9 Elonga, J., 2020. Urban Massing. [image]. Figure 8.0 Elonga, J., 2020. Strategic Plan. [image]. Figure 8.1 Elonga, J., 2020. Strategic Section. [image]. Figure 8.2 Elonga, J., 2020. Social Turbine Hall. [image]. Figure 8.3 Elonga, J., 2020. Social Infrastructure. [image]. DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

Figure 7.1 Elonga, J., 2020. Notions Of Urban Empowerment. [image].

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Figure 8.4 Iovino, A., 2020. Creativity In Cape Town: The Art Scene Of Langa. [image] Available at: <https://theculturetrip.com/africa/south-africa/ articles/creativity-in-cape-town-the-art-scene-of-langa/> [Accessed 30 October 2020]. Figure 8.5 Elonga, J., 2020. Cultural Goal Depictions. [image].

Figure 9.6 Elonga, J., 2020. Program Explorations. [image].

Figure 10.9 Elonga, J., 2020. Energy Axo. [image].

Figure 9.7 Elonga, J., 2020. Sectional Render. [image].

Figure 11.0 Elonga, J., 2020. Attic. [image].

Figure 9.8 Elonga, J., 2020. Section P01. [image].

Figure 11.1 Elonga, J., 2020. The Future Of Athlone? Endless Possibilities. [image].

Figure 8.6 Elonga, J., 2020. Aps Conceptual Render. [image].

Figure 9.9 Elonga, J., 2020. Existing Vs Proposed & Ref. Plan. [image].

Figure 8.7 Elonga, J., 2020. Internal Perspective. [image].

Figure 10.0 Elonga, J., 2020. Proposed. [image].

Figure 8.8 Elonga, J., 2020. Concept. [image].

Figure 10.1 Elonga, J., 2020. Proposed. [image]. Figure 10.2 Elonga, J., 2020. Proposed. [image].

Figure 8.9 Elonga, J., 2020. Zoning Concept. [image]. Figure 9.0 Elonga, J., 2020. Zone Mass Blocking. [image]. Figure 9.1 Elonga, J., 2020. Filter Massing Of Aps. [image]. Figure 9.2 Elonga, J., 2020. Program Strategy. [image]. Figure 9.3 Elonga, J., 2020. Program Explorations. [image]. Figure 9.4 Elonga, J., 2020. Program Explorations. [image]. Figure 9.5 Elonga, J., 2020. Program Explorations. [image]. 152

Figure 10.3 Elonga, J., 2020. Facade Illustrations. [image]. Figure 10.4 Elonga, J., 2020. Proposed. [image]. Figure 10.5 Elonga, J., 2020. Proposed. [image]. Figure 10.6 Elonga, J., 2020. Proposed. [image]. Figure 10.7 Elonga, J., 2020. Render. [image]. Figure 10.8 XCompany, 2018. X - Malta. [online] X, the moonshot factory. Available at: <https://x.company/projects/ malta/> [Accessed 2 July 2020].

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Appendix| Overall

1. Electrical Thermal Energy Storage process.

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Electrical Thermal Energy Storage| Process

Electrical Thermal Energy Storage: As mentioned earlier in the paper, Electrical Thermal Energy Storage (ETES) is a technological process in which energy is produced through the heating or cooling of a medium (such as molten salt) and then stored in storage facilities for later use (Schumacher, 2019). The energy stored can be used for heating and cooling applications and generating electricity by means of turning steam turbines. It stands as a sustainable approach to energy production, that could be used in providing electricity and heat energy to areas in deficit of these needs, such as Langa.

156

The process: ETES units are scalable and tailored to meet the site-specificity. There are three modes in which they occur. “ETES Base” is set up as stand-alone facility. “ETES Add” is set up to be an addition to an existing energy plant.

1. In ETES, electricity is produced from a renewable source, whether it be solar panels or wind turbines.

2. ”ETES Switch” is associated with retrofitting the renewable plant into a decommissioned plant, which is the most suitable option for the Athlone Power Station. DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 15.0 [ABOVE] ETES ILLUSTRATION: By Author (2020).

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3. Resistive heaters are then used to convert the electrical energy into heat energy which is then blown to the storage units using a heat blower. 4. The heated air is used to heat a medium capable of retaining the heat for a long time. The medium used is usually sand, pebble beds or volcanic rock which are all easy to source. The heated medium storing the heat energy is stored in insulted energy storage vats. 5. While this is happening, cooled water from the steam generator is reheated through resistive heating and stored for district heating.

3 4

158

FIGURE 15.1 [ABOVE] ETES ILLUSTRATION: By Author (2020).

6. When electricity is required, the heat stored in the vats is transferred to the steam generator where in combination with cool liquids, produces steam that is transferred to the steam turbines. The steam turbines convert steam into electricity which passes through a generator and finally results in grided electricity. 7. Stored reheated water from the steam turbine can be used for district heating 8. Instead of producing electricity, steam can also be generated through the steam generator

8 DICHOTOMIA: Rethinking Social Infrastructure

FIGURE 15.2 [ABOVE] ETES ILLUSTRATION: By Author (2020).

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References| & Figures

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Figure 15.0 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 15.2 Elonga, J., 2020. ETES Process Infographics. [image].

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DICHOTOMIA: AN URBAN CHANGE FOR ATHLONE POWER STATION THROUGH RETHINKING SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Articles inside

DICHOTOMIA: AN URBAN CHANGE FOR ATHLONE POWER STATION THROUGH RETHINKING SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE