INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN PORTFOLIO
LOLA
ANNE
BRAIMAH 2017-2020
CONTENTS
01 The Spinning Block MIXED-USE SOCIAL HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
pp.1-14
02 The Spinning Block - Textiles Market PUBLIC REALM & CANOPY CONSTRUCTION
pp.15-18
03 The Powder Room CULTURAL EXHIBITION SPACE
pp.19-20
04 The Powder Room x Hanifa EVENT PRODUCTION
pp.21-24
05 Ebeneezer’s Utopia INFRASTRUCTURE
pp.25-30
06 The Ivy HOSPITALITY
pp.31-32
07 Personal Projects SELECTED WORKS
pp.33-36
The Hotspur Press
The Spinning Block MANCHESTER, UK
The Original Northern Powerhouse The Spinning Block is a new residential development in the heart of Central Manchester; is the first social housing development that offers families and young upcoming artists and designers an array of opportunities. The new development is an immediate response to Manchester’s hidden homeless crisis and disproportionate inner cities. Commonly known as The Hotspur Press building, today the former cotton mill has been transformed into a 5-storey community hub. The development consists of a residence atrium, prefabricated residential units: 10 micro ensuite studios (intended for the artists/designers) 6 single-story family studios (intended for 3 person families) and 10 two-storey micro-housing units (intended for 4 person families), outdoor market, gallery/exhibition, space, creative studio and workshop. The Spinning Block aims to house homeless families who are currently undergoing financial hardship, struggling to find a safe and secure space to live. The development welcomes 10 freelance artists and designers who are looking to kick start their start-up businesses and participate in the management of the building. The Spinning Block is the first precedent that aims to rewrite the social housing story through creating affordable housing for families and young artists to experience inner-city living through the conservation of industrial heritage. On-site job opportunities will be available to tenants actively seeking work Through working for the development, tenants will generate income and a small percentage will go back into the development and will cover energy bills, maintenance costs and rental payments. The Spinning Block provides the younger residents with a better outlook on life, as research shows that living in a ‘working-community’ environment will instil core values from an early age and this will encourage the younger residents to work hard in all aspects of their life in the future. and also through creating opportunities for employment within the development. The space promotes positivity amongst families and communities, as well as a sustainable lifestyle. It also strives to improve the resident’s well-being, and encourage communication, collaboration and coordination. The resident artists will organise specialised art events that will encourage bonding between parents and children, in hopes to create closer relationships between the parent and child which would ultimately improve the family dynamics within the home.
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CREATE
Proposed space
TRADE
WORK
LIVE
MIXED-USE SOCIAL HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
Site Analysis Manchester is a thriving city located in the north-west of England. Art culture is constantly celebrated throughout the entire city - Manchester is thought to be the alternative creative city to London. Also known for its industrial heritage, Manchester is home to many musicians, actors’, athletes, the most successful football club in the country. Identified as one of the UK’s liveliest cities, Manchester attracts many students across the country and is one of the major destination for creatives. Today it is a city filed will pride and joy. Also referred to as ‘Cottonopolis’, Manchester was once the beating heart of the textiles industry. It was recognised as one of the fist industrial cities in the world. The city was infamously known for manufacturing wool, cotton, linen and silk. Situated between neighbouring industrial cities such as Bolton, Liverpool, Wigan and Leeds. Formally referred to as the ‘Red River’, the River Medlock is a silent, redundant stream that coddles around the curved warehouse of The Hotspur Press. The river is a historically significant component in the area that sits beneath Gloucester Street and can be seen from the high embankments. “One hundred and fifty years ago, upstream the Medlock was crucial for the mills and dye works that lined its banks – it was a transporter of raw material, a source of power and an outlet for industrial quantities of sewage and effluent. But in Manchester’s growing city centre, the river was seen as a nuisance, something which got in the way of development and needed to be culverted and hidden away underground.” (Mark Hillsdon, 2014).
Whitworth Street West & Great Marlborough Street
Oxford Road & Station Approach
A street filled with many historic structures - there lies the infamous Hacienda apartments (previously a nightclub), the O2 Ritz, South Junction and Altrincham railway viaduct, many modern medium density residential builds, a few restaurants and estate agencies. At the top of this street, there is an abandoned theatre building covered in O2 Ritz posters and flyers. This street is very quiet during the day, but gradually gets busier towards the evening. I noticed a young mum and her child riding a bicycle heading towards the Bright Horizons Manchester Day Nursery and Preschool building. There were a few lorries and coaches parked along this street. Opposite the O2 Ritz building is Great Marlborough Street – another path beneath the railway viaduct. It can be accessed by both, pedestrians and vehicles. Quite a popular pedestrian route in comparison to Gloucester Street.
An extremely busy road, however it is popular amongst the users as it is the centre point for many activities, entertainment and leisure. Public transport is primary and the road is situated between 2 heavily-used pedestrian routes. During the day the area is heavily populated with students and young professionals. Located here are several places to eat and shop. This path is also home to a theatre and arts centre. Before crossing onto Whitworth Street West, to the left of me was Station Approach – a short street which directs people to Oxford Road Station. This street is very busy as many commuters populates this area. The road was partially obstructed by cones but pedestrians still had access. The station is quite hidden from the main roads, and its only noticeable if this route is taken. A cycle hub s also located here in the centre of the area.
First Street, Annie Horniman Street and Jack Rosenthal
Gloucester Street, Cambridge Street and Hulme Street
First Street is a redeveloped area (once home to the industrial gasometers) created for young professionals and students. This street has many entertainment spots, hospitality and commercial space. Vegetation can be seen from Annie Horniman Street and the rear of Hotspur Press building. Bicycle racks are also located beneath the viaduct arches. The Jack Rosenthal St is a pedestrian path beneath the railway viaduct arch which connects directly to restaurants within First St and the west elevation of the Hotspur Press. It has no vehicle access; however, delivery vans utilise the path for the businesses within the area. Views of the site, Starbucks café, Macintosh Mill and Q-Park can be seen from the arches.
The Hotspur Press building is situated along Gloucester Street - a very busy street that is regularly occupied by vehicles arriving from Cambridge Street Junction. This street begins beneath the second viaduct arch offering great views of The Hotspur Press building. There are a few industrial relics, brownfield and the River Medlock can also be seen from here. The roads are primary and the sidewalks are secondary. The industrial site still exists however, like many industrial buildings in Central Manchester, there are a few areas within the site that are redundant and lack energy.
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Cottonopolis The Industrial Revolution is one of the most important events in British history – memorable for the social and technological progressions in the 19th century. For many years Manchester was referred to ‘Cottonopolis’ - the centre of the global finished cotton trade. The cities within the Lancashire county were ideal for the production of cotton, as they had steep streams which could provide power for the mills and give soft water for the washing and bleaching of cotton. In the mid-18th century, Manchester became the commercial centre of the cotton industry. Their significant role in the textile industry contributed to the economic success at the time. There are several 19th century industrial mills within the city. Today, many of these industrial buildings have been converted into office space, residential apartments, hotels and restaurants. However, there are still a plethora of industrial buildings that have been left to decay. The Hotspur Press is located in an area that was once heavily utilised for industry use. The proposed site is situated nearby Macintosh Mills (also known as Charles Macintosh Indian Rubber Works) – Charles Macintosh owned 3 mills along Cambridge Street. Each mill produced rubberised waterproofs invented by Macintosh, which later became Dunlop Rubber works. Today, Chorlton Mills and Marsland’s Mill have been converted into residential apartments and student housing. Both buildings are Grade-II listed and much of their structural framework has been preserved. Unfortunately, The Hotspur Press building is the only industrial mill that has been neglected.
The Problem
The regeneration strategy for many major cities has failed because it has not addressed the problem and has resulted in the erasure of the ‘working class’ in our inner-cities. During the nineteenthcentury, those who were wealthy resided in rural areas away from the poverty-ridden inner city. Today in Central Manchester, the slums which have long-since been erased, now depict a contrasting story. Many private property developers have been permitted to construct large-scale development on brownfield sites in the city centre, completely disregarding the several abandoned industrial mills that exist in the area. It is extremely evident that inner-city housing for destitute families and the hidden homelessness is not a priority, and this specific group have been isolated from the regeneration of Central Manchester The demand for inner-city housing is at an alltime high. Many young families who have grown
1 54 in
people in Manchester are homeless
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up in impoverished areas in Manchester such as, Moss Side, Blackley and Wythenshawe, have always dreamed of residing in the heart of Central Manchester - unfortunately many are not financially stable for inner-city living. These families are struggling to make ends meet and require affordable housing for the time being. Many artists across the UK struggle to find studio space – this is becoming more of a problem year after year. Rent for studio spaces are increasing and many artists that operated in the capital have now had to spread out of London. Not only do they potentially lose their local clientele, but they also must compete for the few affordable spaces that exist.
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“A truly global city is one with families living in it”
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Over the years housing in the UK has become an increasingly big problem. Demand for affordable housing is outstripping supply and many lowincome families are suffering because of this. Housing estates are no longer safe and the community fabric has deteriorated over the years – this standard of living has led to an increase in anti-social behaviour and high levels of poverty within the UK.
– Ewen Miller
34%+
Rough sleeping in Manchester increases
Highest death rate of homeless people
1500>
Homeless families
"HOME IS WHERE THE ART IS"
Design Concept Drawing from the concept of contemporary co-living spaces, this project focused on exploring methods of conservation, such as adaptive reuse to inject life into the former industrial site. By respecting the host structure's characteristics, focus was placed on the visibility and transparency of activity. Through using voids and extensive ceilings, the space gives users a contemporary connection with the former mill and its industrial properties and characteristics. The aim of the concept is to promote inclusion through interchanging levels and heights.
Keywords Community People Heritage Residential Ownership Visual Connections Co-living Old and new
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Environmental Analysis Views From the Oxford Road Station platform –
The north-facing windows unfortunately do not offer many views of the site as it is a adjacent to the South Junction and Altrincham railway viaduct. To improve this view I may consider repositioning the focus onto First Street.
From the East elevation windows facing Gloucester Street
This is a nice view from the interior as the windows frame the cityscape (The Principals building, the railway viaduct, etc.) In comparison to the other views, this view displays activity within the area and makes the user feel a connection with the public realm.
The diagrams below show when the sun is at its extreme arc during Summer and Winter.
Summer Solstice - Sun rises at 03:40 and sets at 20:42 - Receives daylight for 17.02hrs
Winter Solstice - Sun rises at 03:40 and sets at 20:42 - Receives daylight for 7.28hrs
From South elevation windows facing Cambridge Street
This view introduces the user to the historic industrial site. From the south elevation facade, both Macintosh mills and Cambridge mills can be seen from this view. However, the brownfield in between both mills makes the view quite unsightly, so I will be proposing a narrow, pedestrian footpath cluttered with greenery. This could possibly improve the existing view. From West elevation windows facing First Street
This Q-Park First Street car park building is huge in comparison to the Hotspur Press Building, and it towers over the site, blocking any views of the First Street development. If it is not possible to create a footpath link from Jack Rosenthal Street to Cambridge Street, I may consider fragmenting the views from the west-facing windows.
The diagrams below show when the average sun received midway both extremes in Autumn and Spring. Autumn Equinox - Sun rises at 05:53 and sets at 18:10 - Receives daylight for 12.17hrs
Spring Equinox - Sun rises at 06:09 and sets at 18:24 - Receives daylight for 12.16hrs
I made sure each space received as much natural light as possible. The orientation of the site was carefully arranged in order to minimise shading and maximise solar gain. After my sun path analysis I concluded that the main entrance(s). laundry facilities and the receptions will face the north as the activities within these spaces do not require any direct sunlight. Whereas the exhibition space, creative studio, bed rooms, kitchen/dining spaces needed to face south because these are the rooms that will be used more frequenntly.
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Window Treatment This intervention involved the removal of all the existing 1.9m Victorian double-hung windows. However, to ensure that the buildings heritage is retained, elements such as the Victorian window frames on the west elevation were kept and repaired, and windows that had cracks or stains were replaced with double glazing. The double-hung, fixed and top awning Victorian windows posed no function and were retained for historic and aesthetic purpose. . By keeping these windows, visitors in the area can see a visual connection between the former mill and the other industrial mills neighbouring the development. The windows that were removed were replaced with 2.1m balcony doors and railing and 2.1m bottom awning windows that have been recessed into the masonry walls. The balcony doors and botton awning windows are positioned on the north, east and south elevatons. I considered double-glazed window treatment because they provide better insulation to the habitable spaces, reduces external noise produced by car traffic and the trains operating via the viaduct adjacent to the development. Most importantly, the addition of the double-glazed windows reduces the cost of energy bills for the residents.
Proposed window and inset balcony on east elevation
Proposed window and inset balcony on south/west elevation
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Artist Residence Located in the basement are the luxurious designer studios intended for the 8 artists and designer residents operating within the development. This space consists of three levels - the artist’s studios on level one and three, and the relaxation zone deck which lies in between. The artists are greeted with an open-plan communal space where they can eat, cook, watch TV and dine. It is a functional space solely for relaxing and entertainment. This space has a beautiful high ceiling that makes the space feel less restricting and allows the residents to have a view of the activities above. This design feature provides connectivity and creates interaction amongst the artist residents. The existing distressed concrete slab floors were kept to maintain the industrial aesthetic and also to contrast the new contemporary materials and finishes introduced. The timber batten skirting matches the timber batten wall cladding seen in the rest of the development. The relaxation zone located 2.5M above the lower level is the perfect space for reading, casual meetings and relaxing. Residents have the choice to use the large knitted bean bags provided or they can also sit along the mezzanine deck with their legs through the space between the rails. The woven vinyl floor finish and thin linear railings give the space a more contemporary feel. Also located on this level are laundry facilities and extra storage space for luggage or housekeeping items that do not fit in the cleaning closet. This level also has balcony doors and windows facing the south - during daytime this will provide the space with floods of natural light. Additionally, residents can read and relax with a beautiful picturesque view of the River Medlock.
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Artist Residence - En-suite Studio Units
The artist’s en-suite bedrooms are a perfect habitat for the creative users. The 35 sqm. room sits along the curvature of both the former cotton mill and the beautiful River Medlock. The high-end residential room consists of a double bed, wardrobe, chest of drawers, a study table and chair, a floor mounted room functional divider and an en-suite bathroom. The large minimalistic space gives the residents the opportunity to personalise their room and enjoy time to themselves away from stress. Each room has been provided with at least two exterior views of the neighbouring industrial buildings and the River Medlock - this creates an extremely therapeutic setting for the user. These rooms can be accessed via the basement visitor lift or the open-riser staircases below the mezzanine decking.
Room Divider This beautiful mustard yellow item is a mesh room divider/screen which can be used as somewhere the artists can display their freshly ironed clothes or hang their bathroom towels. The screen can also be used as a stationary board where artists can hang notes, ideas, sketches and even their stationary accessories. This amazing feature also divides space between two activities and separates work and play. The screen is positioned in front of the balcony door because once caught in the sunlight the screen reflects a bright golden mesh shadow onto the cream walls. The divider is a vibrant accent, which nicely compliments the room and softens the industrial aesthetic.
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The artist creative studio and workshop is open MondayFriday for external visitors and also for the family residents within the development. This space will be used for family art workshops and is open to those interested in using the services within the spaces, such as laser cutting, digital printing and the photography studio. The space is divided into the digital-media space and the creative workspace: The creative workspace consists of the necessary equipment and furniture needed for the artists to produce fashion garments or textile products/artwork. It was vitally important to provide the users with the sewing and embroidary station away from spaces that do not require tranquility. This space also offers an exceptional view of the River Medlock. The digital-media space is an extremly casual space - less partition walls creates a casual creative atmosphere where all activities can be seen. Other facilities located in the basement include: a locker room, washroom, one wheelchairaccessible toilet, teapoint/eating space, meeting room, a technicians office, changing room and a stockroom for completed works, extra utensils and supplies. The creative studio can be accessed from the ground floor lift located in the visitors reception, the goods lift from ground floor and the west fire stairwell.
Creative Studio & Workshop
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Residence Atrium Positioned on the north-side of the development is the resident's entrance. This entrance can only be accessed by the residents and staff memebers. Upon their arrival both visitors and users are greeted with tall ceilings and large glass panels which allow them to have visual access of all the activities taking place in the creative studio and the exhibition. Located in this space is the reception, training room an indoor courtyard and wheelchair accessible toilets.
Wall-mounted letter box This letterbox is a bespoke joinery item made for all residents in the development. It can only be accessed with the key given to each resident upon moving in. The lockers can only fit A4 sized letters - any letters bigger than A4 size or any large delivery packages will be handed into the reception or stored in the postal lockers beneath . This bespoke item is a better alternative to adding letter boxes to each resident’s door because this forces residents to leave their home and gather on the ground floor where they will communicate with one another.
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Family Residence Accommodation
The pre-fabricated units were constructed from reclaimed timber batten walls to match the design of the artist residence studio units. The timber batten cladding and the jade green door panels were chosen to contrast the mill's old masonary brickwork. The glass balustrades and balcony were added to improve the user experience by offering visual connections of the contemporary artwork exhibited in the gallery on the ground floor, retained heritage and the activity within the development. The purpose behind this design decision was to create a sense of "living amongst art". Located on each floor are two fire escape stairwells, a wheelchair-accessible lift and a waste disposal room. There is also a communal room situated on the first floor where residents can relax in private away from public interferance.
Micro-Housing Typologies As part of our design intervention we had to consider the size of the family housing units and the artist’s bedrooms. Due to the building constraint it was difficult to fit rooms adjacent to one another because of the required space for families of 4 and 3. Our challenge was to fit as many units as possible within the host structure. Our client, One Manchester requested for homes that could encourage engagement between children and their parents.
PROPOSED GA PLAN - BASEMENT FLOOR Two-storey Micro Housing Residential Unit Capacity - 4 people
KITCHEN COUNERTOP
35.75sqm UNDER-COUNTER STORAGE
SPACE FOR ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES
UNDER-COUNTER STORAGE WALL-MOUNTED COAT PEG
35.75sqm
35.75sqm
WASTE BIN
WALL-MOUNTED COAT PEG
STORAGE CREDENZA
UNDER-COUNTER STORAGE
STORAGE CUPBOARDS
KITCHEN COUNERTOP
35.75sqm
35.75sqm
35.75sqm
UNDER-COUNTER STORAGE KITCHEN COUNERTOP
35.75sqm
35.75sqm CLEANING CLOSET
WALL-MOUNTED COAT PEG
UNDER-COUNTER STORAGE
STORAGE CREDENZA
STORAGE CREDENZA
1680
CLEANING CLOSET
35.75sqm
1093
35.75sqm
PLAY AREA
UNDER-COUNTER STORAGE
CLEANING CLOSET
PLAY AREA
KITCHEN COUNERTOP
UNDER STAIRCASE TOY STORAGE
STORAGE CREDENZA
WALL-MOUNTED COAT PEG
WALL-MOUNTED COAT PEG
CLEANING CLOSET
WALL-MOUNTED COAT PEG KITCHEN COUNERTOP
35.75sqm
PLAY AREA
KITCHEN COUNERTOP
35.75sqm
35.75sqm
35.75sqm
UNDER-COUNTER STORAGE
STORAGE CREDENZA
35.75sqm
STORAGE CREDENZA
UNDER-COUNTER STORAGE
STORAGE CUPBOARDS
Illustrated above are an array of spatial arrangements for the Two-storey Micro Housing Units.
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PROPOSED GA PLAN - FIRST FLOOR MICRO-HOUSING RESIDENTIAL STUDIO C A PA C I T Y - 3 P E O P L E
Open-plan kitchen
The single-storey housing studios consist of an open-plan dining and kitchen area, one medium-sized adult bedroom, one small bedroom for two children and one shared bathroom. These rooms will be allocated to families of three and single parent families.
The open-plan dining space consists of a sofa, dining table, chairs, kitchen unit, storage, TV, and a wall-mounted coat peg. The connection between the kitchen and the dining/living space allows for communication amongst family members and better interaction between the adults and children. The kitchen space also has an inset balcony in between the kitchen counter unit. This addition gives the industrial Victorian mill a more contemporary aesthetic and provides the living and dining space with an increasing amount of natural daylight. The materials and finishes in the habitable spaces needed to contrast the stark industrial materials that exist. Therefore, the materials introduced to the habitable spaces had to be warm, comfortable, cosy, easy to maintain, easy to repair, snug and durable. Additionally, all residential units have been provided with acoustic curtains to further block the noise coming from the railway viaduct.
PROPOSED GA PLAN - SECOND & THIRD FLOOR TWO-STOREY MICRO-HOUSING RESIDENTIAL UNIT C A PA C I T Y - 4 P E O P L E
The two-storey housing studios consist of an open-plan dining, living and kitchen space on the firt level. Situated on the second level is one mediumsized adult bedroom, one small bedroom for two children and one shared bathroom. These rooms will be allocated to families of three/four.
Reading corner Located beneath the stairs in the two-storey housing units is a reading/play corner where children can be monitored by their parents/guardians from the kitchen. Adjacent to the reading corner is built-in storage beneath the kitchen counter worktop - this gives children unlimited access to their books and toys instead of confining their possesionns to their bedrooms only. This section of the home can be personalised by selecting from a range of locally sourced eco-friendly wallcoverimg supplied by Vescom. This is also a dĂŠcor option for the bedroom, living room and corridors within the residential units.
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The Spinning Block - Textiles Market
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The Spinning Block: Textiles Market MANCHESTER, UK PUBLIC REALM & CANOPY CONSTRUCTION
Kenyon St. Textiles Market & Events Shed The Textiles Market is an outdoor market space designed for both residents and the public. This versatile space can be used for special events, workshops and weekly market trade. The textiles market allows for the in-house artists residents to sell their quirky artwork and interior decor products to visitors. A footpath was introduced to create a public realm for locals to gather and also to make a connection between First Street, The addition of the public realm increases the cultural and social value of the former textiles mill and the redundant area. Annie Horniman Street and Cambridge Street. The market's on-site facilities include, the residence bike shed, loose outdoor seating, fixed public benches catering van, entrance and exit gates and storage beneath the viaduct arches.
Street art produced by residents
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On-site bicycles for residents
Public benches for dining
Bespoke Market Stalls
An evening cinema event at the Textiles Market
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Cast-iron Weave The Cast-iron Weave is a climate-controlled roof structure inspired by the way in which fire ants respond to poor weather conditions. After the removal of the 1860’s weaving sheds, the Textiles Market required a new roof that exploited natural-light, was water-repellent, sound-proofed, aesthetically pleasing and unique. Eusociality is the highest form of social interaction amongst insects. Because ‘community’ is a distinctive theme throughout my project I decided to examine the behaviour of species that co-ordinate via self-organisation. The development aims to give the users a sense of residential ownership by depending on one another. The users and residents of the building will be expected to emulate the behaviour of social insects. Similar to social insects, residents will distribute labour amongst themselves, supervise extra-curricular activities, care for the younger residents, ensure the building is safe and secure, and also maintain the cleanliness of the development. Fire ants are architects in their own right, as they have the ability to construct architectural-like structures such as towers, bridges and temporary shelters. They assemble a majority of these structures when attempting to escape from emergencies. When their nests (mounds) are flooded, they create long-lasting, pancake-shaped rafts in immediate response to inundation. After analysing my data, the structural composition, motion and environmental responses of the structures built by fire ants pertains more to the design of my biomimetic structure.
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Design breakdown The tensile membrane serves as the ‘plastron layer’ that protects the fie ant rafts. The plastron layer stops the water from succeeding the fie-ant structure’s mass and allows them to breathe. It was important to consider a waterproof breathable fabric for this design. The tensile membrane is constructed from ETFE. It was important that the membrane was constructed from a material that has high translucency. The use of ETFE film in the design also ensures that acoustic transmission coming from the railway platforms does not affect the events taking place in the space. The rainwater that comes into contact with the roof structure will travel towards the drainage and is then disturbed throughout the building for washing facilities. The mesh installation was inspired by the Japanese fabric manipulation technique ‘shibori’ and distressed fabrics. The mesh structure is formed of several spherical shapes (a variety of different sizes) that have been sunken downwards. The overall design mimics the water’s response to compressed fireant structures. Relating back to my textile design concept, I wanted the light fixtures to be woven into my structure and hang like ‘loose thread/yarn’. During poor weather conditions, rainfall activates a choreographed luminous dance and during hot weather, the sequence moves at a much slower pace creating a fanciful atmosphere and illuminating the space through the colourful fibre optic tubes. Fibre optic cables were the best option as they are suitable for extreme weather conditions and they do not require electricity running through the cables.
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North Elevation
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South Elevation
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THE P OW D E R ROOM LEEDS, UK CULTURAL EXHIBITION SPACE
The Powder Room is a 2-storey quirky, cultural event space that embraces maximalism and draws inspiration from kitsch design. This project is a response to the demand for more female-orientated spaces in Leeds City Centre - a safe haven where women and transgender women can be their true selves without judgement. This trend-focused project takes inspiration from the progression of the feminist movement in regards to most recent events, such as the “Me Too� Movement and to also offer exposure to all women operating in underrepresented industries. The former nightclub is located nearby eccentric bars and clubs in the Briggate area. The area is infamously known for its night-life and the LGBTQ+ events and annual parades. This space will host art exhibitions, musical performances, monthly movie events, masterclasses, brand launches and pop-up shops. The flamboyant space consists of a reception, two multi-functional exhibition halls, washroom, staff room, consultation room, and a fun window display.
Proposed GA Ground Floor Plan
Proposed spiral staircase
Proposed GA First Floor Plan
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Pink and blue zebra print frosted window film added to existing exterior window
Reception
Spiral staircase
R5 1
98
R9
1735
Mood board
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The pink exposed concrete staircase was designed for users to access the second floor from the ground floor exhibition space. The addition of the staircase serves as both a functional and aesthetic purpose - the geometry performs as a work of art in the exhibition space. The staircase has been stripped of it’s traditional elements (i.e. railings) to give the illusion that the staircase has been extruded from Ground Floor’s floor finish.
1093
38°
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Headboard (H) - 1400mm
1200
Bespoke clam-shell bed The satin pink clam shell bed was inspired by 1920’s pin up dressing rooms. This prop is located in the front window display at The Powder Room. Visitors and guests can enter this space to take selfies play around with the other props in the boudoir window display room.
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THE P OW D E R ROOM
x LEEDS, UK
EVENT PRODUCTION
The Powder Room x Hanifa This project presents a conceptual pop-up event space for the launch of Hanifa’s Pink Label Congo collection at The Powder Room. Hanifa is a modern contemporary womenswear brand that aims to produce luxurious garments that accentuate feminine curves. The brand is notoriously known for its captivating designs, bold textures and unique colours. The client asked for a space that promotes interaction and networking - a fun, luxurious space that embodies the Hanifa brand, incorporates new technology and influences guests to purchase from the new collection. The space takes inspiration from the brand’s marketing campaigns as they tend to create 3D set designs that compliment their garments. From curved interior elements and the various shades of pink, this space is an instagrammable fashion museum.
Hanifa’s digital set designs always feature large pottery planters and satin finishes.
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Bespoke Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment
Clothing Rail The brushed gold metal rails mounted to the interior walls were designed to display garments from the Pink Label Congo collection. Suspending the garments from the ceiling gives the collection a level of importance - users will view the garments similar to how they would view a painting in a gallery. Additionally it also makes the clothes look more appealing as they can be viewed from several angles. The mounted metal rails are positioned next to the A0 sized posters so that guests can easily identify the garments seen in the posters.
Posters Because this a small collection and there are only a few pieces , I decided to design A0 posters of Hanifa’s marketing campaign images and use them as an interior accessory, instead of using unrelated artwork. These posters will be suspended from the ceiling using hanging system equipment.
Event Backdrop The custom event backdrop is introduced at entrance of the exhibition space - all guests will be instructed to take press photos upon arrival. The design consists of two backdrops - the 3711mmx2500 backdrop with the Hanifa logo and the second backdrop is a translucent plaque 1830x2500mm, which illustrates the information about the collection. Both are suspended from the ceiling.
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Glass shelving Cylindrical column for bar sink and storage
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875 2149
1300
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Cylindrical column for bar sink and storage
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Glass shelving
Bar Counter - Front Elevation Plan 1000 Scale: 1:40
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405
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2500
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Bar counter 150
900
Single-handle bar faucet
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Bar Counter - Section Plan Scale: 1:40
Tables
Low -seating catering table
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5 50
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88 180 180 180
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Bar Counter Plan Scale: 1:40
Catering table
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88 180 180 180 490
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Bar Sca
Bar Counter - Section Plan Scale: 1:40 230
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Bar counter
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plaform
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Bar Counter Plan 775 900 Scale: 1:40 230
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R1
628
Bar Counter Plan Scale: 1:40 Elevated
Bar counter
490
420
405
5
150
600600
50 935
186
06
6
9
24
R1
R450
Situated behind the backdrops is the corrugated champagne bar counter. The shape of the counter mirrors the semi-circular shaped backdrops. This design features - glass shelving. bar countertop, bar tap and storage. The two openings on either side, allows for bar staff to manoeuvre throughout the space easily.
775
101
12
490
405 345
1566
1249
898
R1
Bar counter 101
Bar Counter
900 Elevated plaform
Bar Counter - Side Elevation Plan Scale: 1:40 06
5 50
6
300
Elevated plaform
64 12 12 30
146 300
R1
405
5
600
06
R1 R450
628
854
6
64 Bar Counter - Front Elevation Plan 49 12 2 R1 Scale: 1:40
500
Bar Counter Plan R450 2500 628 Scale: 1:40 775
50
186
898
2500
345
600 6
1000
2149
405
5
150
1566
1249 600
Bar counter
06
R1
150
9
24
R1
Ba Sc 345
5
875
600
900
186
875
900
0
64
12
150
1000
R1
06
6
2200
2350
2350
25
345 875
Single-handle bar faucet
300 146
Bar Counter - Side Elevation Plan 101 Scale: 1:40 12 3
Bar counter 150
25
2200
150
150
898
405
1300
405
405 345
2350 900
Cylindrical column for bar sink and storage
854
2500 Elevated plaform
186
875
875
900
405
6
150
06
R450 500
1000 628
Glass shelving
Bar Counter - Front Elevation Plan Scale: 1:40
9
24
R1
Bar Counter - Front Elevation Plan Scale: 1:40 R1
Bar counter
2500
1000
2500 64 12 1000
Single-handle bar faucet
2450
1265
2350
2350
25
345
345
2350
Cylindrical column for bar sink and storage
150
150
2149
Glass shelving
2149
875
875
900 150
405 405
Bar counter 1300
405 405
1265
Single-handle bar faucet
The low-seating catering table and catering table were constructed to compliment the other interior elements in the space. The low-seating tables feature a semicircular marble table assembled to the tall podium catering tables. The purpose of this design was because my client wanted furnishings that encouraged socialising. Usually everyone is meeting one another for the first time at launch events, so influencers and guests tend to be extremely shy and reserved. However, the bespoke tables permit for all users to communicate, network and eat delicacies together.
Virtual fitting room Following the company’s successful 3-dimensional digital fashion show, my client requested for new technology to be incorporated into the space. The fitting room features a Smart interactive touch-screen mirror that gives guests the opportunity to try on garments from the new collection. This is a good incentive for the business because guests are more likely to purchase items that they have tried on.
24
Ebeneezer’s Utopia WELWYN GARDEN CITY, UK INFRASTRUCTURE
Inspired by Ebeneezer Howard’s Garden City Theory, the beautiful footbridge focuses on providing local citizens and visitors the best user experience. The gardenesque infrastructure connects users from Howardsgate to the former industrial area, Peartree. The footbridge was built in the 1920’s (around the same time the Welwyn Garden City railway station opened) and was used by pedestrians to cross over to the other side of the city. Years later, the overall design was extremely inconsistent due to the fact that the original bridge was never demolished, but extended using different materials. The proposed footbridge design gives commuters and visitors a place to gather and dwell whilst waiting for their train, colleagues or friends. The addition of the two retail spaces allows for rotational use of pop-up stores, which gives users something to look forward to each time they access the footbridge. The assortment of flowers throughout the bridge design creates a whimsical experience for the users and the division of passageways offers a better sense of direction and eliminates confusion for all users. Not only does this improve the local economy but it also attracts attention from all demographics as it adds an element of surprise upon arrival. Site Plan
25
Design Concept - ‘Three-way’ pedestrian bridge The existing bridge and nearby roads did not prioritize pedestrians and cyclists - they were heavily occupied by motorists and public transport which was not a pleasant experience for pedestrians. The proposed design prioritises pedestrians, commuters and cyclists, and meets the user requirements. The footbridge can be accessed via The Howard Centre, Osborn Way, Platforms 1 & 2 and Platforms 3 & 4 at Welwyn Garden City Station, therefore all users will have a different experience. It was a requirement for the garden bridge to look aesthetically unique amongst the bleak industrial landscape. I aimed to use materials that embraced nature, such as concrete and elements of wood - this was done so the design unified with the Howardsgate garden adjacent to the Howard Centre. Inspiration for the overall design was drawn from Bauhaus-inspired furniture/architectural elements, and different forms of floral designs. I looked at flowers and greenery suspended from ceilings, illustrated flower designs, digitally-printed window vinyl and pressed flowers art.
A
B
C
Design Analysis The proposed footbridge consists of two open-air paths and an enclosed cyclist pathway: A - Intended for locals and entering directly from the Howardsgate (commercial) or Peartree (residential) area. B - Intended for cyclists. This route has a ramp towards the end of the bridge, causing a change in platform. C - Intended for commuters and visitors to wait for arrival/departure trains. Between the platform stairs there is 23.5m of space dedicated for visitors to gather and congregate.
A
B
C
26
Existing stairwell
Cycling tunnel
1375
Proposed stairwell
13500
8009
650
2665 2730
4240
Proposed stairwell 6000
Proposed 'pop-up' space
Roller-shutter 2730 2665
7300
3000
Existing lift 4880
2993
4383
4434
7360 770
2630
Existing stairwell to Platforms 3 & 4
Leather and rattan bench seating
Double-glazed frameless partition wall Proposed stairwell
Decorative digital print vinyl on exterior glass facade Cycling tunnel
23500
19031
2480
19960
23500
Pebble stones
3919
670
150 670
150 670
Cubic concrete outdoor seating (670x670)
1500
670
150 670
150 670
1200
14132
1890
19031
Concrete platform for 'WELCOME TO WELWYN GARDEN CITY' signage
Cubic concrete seating
Double-glazed exterior
Asphalt slope
7360
2665
5869
4434
6029
3000
Existing lift
1302
3030
4880
4434
7300
Proposed 'pop-up' space
6000
4240
Existing stairwell to Platforms 1 & 2
3081 133
Metal handrail
842
Roller-shutter
842
5893
1375
13500
2665
7950
6245
7187
Metal handrail
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
6245
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
Assorted garden flowers 320
Concrete stairwell
1163
3112
1600
7030
Public outdoor litter bin
1163
PEARTREE
GA Plan - Level 1
27
Assorted garden flowers 320
6000
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
2730
Level 0 Floor Plan Scale - 1:00
Double-glazed frameless partition wall Metal handrail
GA Plan - Level 2
3
3 250
Glazing
Glazing
Artificial floral ceiling installation
Existing stairwell to Platforms 1 & 2
Existing stairwell to Platforms 3 & 4
13500
3030
23470
3000
6376
5760
1364
56500
Proposed stairwell to Peartree neighborhood
West Elevation - Commuter's & Visitor's Route Pitched roof
Arched concrete masonry blockwork
Metal handrail Exterior glass facade Decorative digital print vinyl
Double-glazed frameless Arched concretepartition masonrywall blockwork 56500
Cycling tunnel 21640
330
Masonry arch
Existing lift
Pitched roof
3000
Glazing
330 250
330
56500
Glazing 3000
1725
Artificial floral ceiling installation
3000
3580
Glazing
3580
3580
Existing lift
Existing stairwell to Platforms 3 & 4
247
250
Existing stairwell to Platforms 1 & 2
Roller-shutter
Roller-shutter 13500
3030
23470
3000
6376
5760
1364
56500
Glazing
West Elevation - Commuter's & Visitor's13500 Route
3030
Proposed stairwell to Peartree neighborhood
23477
Metal handrail
2993
6376
5872
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
56500
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
West Elevation - Local Residents Route
Existing lift
Existing lift
Pitched roof
Proposed stairwell
Glazing
Embossed moss signage with neon lights WELCOME TO WELWYN GARDEN CITY
Decorative digital print vinyl on exterior glass facade
Pitched roof
247
250
Cycling tunnel
330
56500
19031
13679
Roller-shutter
6°
250
300
Glazing
2480
2180
2480
Roller-shutter
3000
3580
3580
3000
3000
3580
1725
330
330
56500
2993
6376
14132
56500
5872
1500
2736
23477
26063
2736
3030
9605
3919
13500
5200
56500
519
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
West Elevation - Local Residents Route
Proposed stairwell
West Elevation - Cyclist's Route
Double-glazed exterior
Embossed moss signage with neon lights WELCOME TO WELWYN GARDEN CITY
19031
13679
19031
13679
Asphalt slope
Decorative digital print vinyl on exterior glass facade
Pitched roof
Cycling tunnel
300
6°
250
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
2480
2180
2480
3000
3580
330
56500
1500
519
14132
2736
26063
9605
2736
5200
3919
Proposed stairwell
Decorative digital print vinyl on exterior glass facade 56500
Cycling tunnel 19031
West Elevation - Cyclist's Route
13679
19031
13679
Asphalt slope
2480
Double-glazed exterior
Exterior glass facade Decorative digital print vinyl Pitched roof 1500
56500
Cycling tunnel 21640
Masonry arch
3000
3580
330
14132
Arched concrete masonry blockwork 2736
3919
Arched concrete masonry blockwork
250
19031
Glazing Double-glazed exterior
Asphalt slope
13679
Glazing
Artificial floral ceiling installation
Existing stairwell to Platforms 1 & 2
Existing stairwell to Platforms 3 & 4
13500
3030
23470
3000
6376
5760
1364
56500
Proposed stairwell to Peartree neighborhood
West Elevation - Commuter's & Visitor's Route
Metal handrail
5869
6029
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
Existing lift
Existing lift
Pitched roof
3081
Glazing
56500
133
330 3000
250
247
3000
3580
5893
3580
1725
330
Metal handrail
7187
Roller-shutter
Roller-shutter
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
Glazing
13500
3030
23477
2993
6376
5872
56500
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
West Elevation - Local Residents Route
Concrete stairwell 3112
Proposed stairwell
1600
Embossed moss signage with neon lights WELCOME TO WELWYN GARDEN CITY
Decorative digital print vinyl on exterior glass facade
Pitched roof
Cycling tunnel 19031
13679
2736 519
1500
2736
14132
R5
5 3919
26063
R5 2
1050
2883
9605
2883
5200
58
25
58
300 250
6°
1050
2480
2180
2480
3000
3580
330
56500
56500
West Elevation - Cyclist's Route
1050
1050 300
1050
1050 300
1050 300
1050 300
1050
1050
300
300
1050 300
150
13679
Asphalt slope
2292
2292
19031
Double-glazed exterior
1050 300
R150
150
471
1050
471
R150
471
1050
471
28
247
3000
3580
17 3580
3000 250
Roller-shutter
Roller-shutter
Glazing
13500
3030
23477
2993
6376
5872
56500
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
West Elevation - Local Residents Route
Proposed stairwell
Embossed moss signage with neon lights WELCOME TO WELWYN GARDEN CITY
Decorative digital print vinyl on exterior glass facade
Pitched roof
Cycling tunnel 19031
14132
2736
26063
9605
3919
1367
300 250
6°
5200
2480
2180
2480
3000
3580
330
56500
1500
56500
West Elevation - Cyclist's Route 19031
Double-glazed exterior
Asphalt slope
Embossed moss signage with white neon LED lights WELCOME TO WELWYN GARDEN CITY (font size approx. 3685pt)
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
Moss
Proposed stairwell
Decorative digital print vinyl on exterior glass facade Cycling tunnel 19031
2480
Welcome signage 3919
The large moss welcome sign illuminated by white LED lighting introduces visitors to the city upon arrival. This design element also makes it safer for bike riders during the evening. 14132
1500
19031
Asphalt slope
5869
6029
Double-glazed exterior
3081 133
842
Garden stairwell
7187
Metal handrail
6245
Assorted garden flowers 1163
Garden stairwell 29
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
Double-glazed frameless partition wall
Concrete stairwell
320
The garden stairwell is another option of seating for the users. In this space, visitors and locals can eat lunch, communicate and relax away from the commuter traffic. Centering the stairwell is an assorted garden of flowers - these were added to inject colour into the grey concrete space and serves as a visual connection to the footbridge’s interior and Howardsgate.
Metal handrail
5893
3112
1600
30
The Ivy WELWYN GARDEN CITY, UK HOSPITALITY
NEW AGE BLUES
The Ivy, Welwyn Garden City is a luxurious social lounge located in the formal industrial area, Peartree. Once known as the Crown Macaroni offices, the restaurant features a ground floor bar, dining area, reading lounge and a casual seating on the ground floor and the top deck mezzanine floor.
FLOOR PLANS
2
1
1
1
3 4
6
7
Ground Floor Plan
31
8
1. Dining Area 2. Reading Lounge 3. Bar 4. Kitchen 5. Storage 6. Office 7. Staff Room
Mezzanine Floor Plan
8. Upper-deck dining area 9. W/C
9
Inspired by the current SS17 trend TROPIC PLANTHOUSE - (source: patternbank)
The alluring and dark setting features tropical textiles prints inspired by British designer, Matthew Williamson and contrasting textures. Sunset yellow and brush gold and copper accents illuminate the space and uplifts the dark tonal upholstery fabrics - the contrasting textures take inspiration from traditional industrial materials and embraces deterioration. The large planters create a beautiful dining experience for users and add to the tropical aesthetic.
ELEVATIONS
BESPOKE FITTED FURNITURE The hanging-frame fitted furniture was inspired by my conceptual models for the Welwyn Garden City’s proposed footbridge. The intimate dining space features a burnt orange faux leather upholstery against oak wood framing suspended from above. The dining space also features a tropical wall-covering contrasting the teal walls in the rest of the space.
32
Personal Projects The following pages include a selection of artwork completed by myself over the years.
Medium: Graphite pencil 33
Medium: Graphite pencil
Medium: Graphite pencil, Indian ink, water
34
Medium: Oil pastels, wax
35
Medium: Coloured pencils, oil pastels, water
36
End