Brian Cox Portfolio by PDF Uploads

P O RT FO L I O Brian Cox Newcastle University Stage 3 2020-2021 180313226

CO N T E N TS A Manifesto for housing

6-82

Illustrated Reflective Diary Framing Testing Thinking Through Making Synthesis

6-9 10

Thematic Case Study

83-94

Bibliography

95-97

List of Figures

98-99

Cultural Bibliography

100-103

Appendix - Process Work

104-118

25 44 49

- New or edited work since review

A MA N I F E STO FO R H O U S I N G

Re f l e c t i v e D i a r y

A Manifesto for Housing

Reflective Diary-7

In the final year of my studies, I was part of the studio ‘A Manifesto for Housing’. In our studio we have explored how “housing is not only a manifestation of power relations within society, but a vehicle through which an alternative social order can be imagined” (Studio Brief, 2020). The site for our studio is Cruddas Park House, a post-war social housing tower block and the connected podium that lies under it. Located in Elswick, Newcastle Upon Tyne, the tower block is an example of the negative perceptions of tower living, with residents often voicing their negative experiences in the local news (Hutchinson, 2019). However, such difficulties are not in the slightest limited to Cruddas Park; rather we are seeing on a national scale issues around housing which have created what we now refer to as a housing crisis. This crisis is highlighted in a recent study by Shelter which found “In two years’ time, there will be 1.5 million fewer affordable homes across the country than there were in 1980” (Shelter, 2020). This crisis has been further stressed by the current pandemic which has placed the issues around housing under a microscope. It is in this broader context that that my thesis project looks at how Cruddas Park and housing in general can be re-imagined through architectural practice.

Roof Access

Sun Rooms + Balconies

Repurposed Corridoors

Access

In this year’s study I have covered a great deal of content around the themes of the studio. In the early stages of the project, we created our group work which concluded with a studio Manifesto. I then took the manifesto and turned into an individual brief for my project. My understanding and knowledge around housing has increased and I can clearly see how I have progressed throughout the year, both in my understanding of the topics of our studio, and in my ability as an architect. I feel this is reflected throughout the process and narrative within this portfolio. I am especially proud of Framing

8- Reflective Diary

A Manifesto for Housing

the process and iterations that my project underwent. Overall, there have been three key stages in the development of my vision for Cruddas Park; upon reflection I feel that between the framing and testing stages I lost focus slightly on what exactly I was trying to achieve. Fortunately, I was able to correct this following my testing review which led to me taking a couple steps back and making many adjustments to me design. While this set me back temporarily as I reverted to massing, the choice to further iterate my design and adjust my approach led to a final project that I am proud of and feel satisfies the studio Manifesto and my own goals, as explored in this Portfolio. The ARC3015 module was of great benefit to me as it helped me solidify my approach towards the manifesto and be able to identify when I felt my design was not satisfying the manifesto as best as it could. The ARC3013 technology research came at the point when I was adjusting my design following my testing review. While this proved to be challenging (as for the most part, my project was far from complete), it was of great benefit to me in the development of my project as I was able to consider how my project would function as I figured out the design. This integrated approach allowed me to ensure that key themes such as sustainability and modularity were evident across all scales of the project. To conclude this project, I completed the synthesis stages. This was when I was able to celebrate the process that my design had undergone and represent for the first time my final iteration. Reflecting on my final review, I was able to see just how much I had learnt not only throughout the year, but especially between my testing and final reviews. It is at this stage where I can see how I improved my project by taking it one step further to satisfy the goals that I had set for myself in creating a vision of

Testing

A Manifesto for Housing

tomorrow for Cruddas Park. To complete this project on time has tested me, but upon reflection I am proud of what I have both learnt and achieved. I have developed not only my knowledge, but my skills as I have strived to re-imagine Cruddas Park. This is highlighted in my variety of approaches, such as model making, CAD, hand drawing and architectural visualisation. Ultimately, I can clearly see how much I have developed throughout the course of the year and the various modules, which has not only added to my desire of pursuing a career in housing design but has also increased my confidence in being able to do so in a way that addresses the current housing and climate crises.

Reflective Diary-9

Roof

Glulam Beam

Steel Bracket

Existing Column

Column Bracing

Synthesis

FRAMING

A Manifesto for Housing - Framing

1847 1930

-Huge numbers of Tyneside flats, especially around Scotswood Road, built to accommodate factory workers.

towers with new interior fittings and altering the sizes of some flats through ‘Your Homes Newcastle’.

-Great Depression causes unemployment to hit record heights and living conditions lead to many working class people to live in “slums”. Council Houses start to replace the existing “slums”.

20062012

- In an attempt to revitalise the area, the area was renamed to Riverside Dene with towers being refurbished, five of the blocks moved to private sale, with the remaining five and Cruddas Park House being managed by ‘Your Homes Newcastle’.

2012

- Due to difficulties in funding and the difficulty of selling the flats, 5 of the towers are not refurbished but are rather demolished. Centre Wests website reports four blocks are fully let to social tenants, with the fifth being “nearly full” with homeowners.

2014

- Cruddas Park House is refurbished, with a community park being built and the attached shopping centre being renovated. The tower took a new externalwall insulating cladding and fittings such as double-glazed windows to improve its performance and appeal.

2017

- The Grenfell Tower disaster leads to the insulation being checked on Cruddas Park and Riverside Dene towers, with some decorative cladding being removed from the Riverside Dene towers.

1956

1963 1970 1975 1990 19902000

-Last coal pit closed, with the decline of the mining industry a lot of poverty followed. People now suddenly found themselves with no job and no way of making money. By the 1950s the area of Cruddas Park was considered a rundown residential area and was subsequently completely cleared.

Scale 1:2500

100

120

140

160

180

200 m

Dec 10, 2020 14:23 Brian Cox University of Newcastle

Projection: British National Grid

-The construction of 11 towers begins. 10 within what is now known as the Riverside Dene scheme and Cruddas Park House. -New towers completed. Relocating many of the residents. -Many local industries such as shipbuilding and steel works were in heavy decline. This hit the area very hard and left very many people without work. Simultaneously Thatcher’s government were cutting back on the social housing systems established after WW2. There were a lot of strikes, violence, political and social conflict, and brutality.

-By 1990 the area was in a very poor state. The council launched the ‘Going for Growth’ strategy which looked to refurbish the Riverside Dene and Cruddas house

Scale 1:2500

100

120

140

Projection: British National Grid

160

180

200 m

Dec 10, 2020 14:23 Brian Cox University of Newcastle

2019

- Residents still concerned with the fire safety of Cruddas Park House project the message, “2 YEARS AFTER GRENFELL AND THE FIRE DOORS IN THIS BUILDING STILL AREN’T FIT FOR PURPOSE” on the wall of the tower.

Timeline of History-11

12-Site Introduction

Framing - A Manifesto for Housing

as Cr udd

Park

ene

ide D Rivers

Graphic from studio member

Located in Elswick, Newcastle Upon Tyne, due west of the city centre stands the cluster of towers known as Riverside Dene and Cruddas Park House. My site is Cruddas Park tower and the attached podium, the tower houses 20 stories of flat, which together rise to a grand height of 75m, offering views of Newcastle to the east and the Tyne valley to the south. Located on a slope with green space directly to the south of the building there is the opportunity for outdoor communal space which is greatly lacking from the site. Cruddas Park House itself is a collection of social housing, as are four of the Riverside Dene towers which together form the only high rise towers in an area of terraced housing. As such, the tower and podium of Cruddas Park seemingly land on the site, with little regard to the existing communities, which is illustrated by the podiums lack of permeability which leads to a consequent lack of communal engagement.

A Manifesto for Housing - Framing

URSERY ns - Walk

Community Links-13

1 - Church (3 min walk) 2- Primary School and Nursery (7 min walks)

5 1

3- Discovery Museum (12 min walk) 4- Central Station (19 min walk)

5 - Life Centre (14 min walk) 9

6- Newcastle College (8 min walk)

7- Tyne River (10 min walk) 8- Primary School and Nursery (4 min walk) 9- Food Wholesale (8 min walk) 7

DISCOVERY MUSEUM 12 mins - Walk CENTRAL STATION 19 mins - Walk

LIFE CENTRE 14 mins - Walk NEWCASTLE COLLEGE 8 mins - Walk

RIVER TYNE 10 mins - Walk PRIMARY SCHOOL/ NURSERY 4 mins - Walk

FOOD WHOLESALE 8 mins - Walk

14-Context Materiality

Framing - A Manifesto for Housing

Cruddas Park

1. Terraced Housing - Residential

Built Environment Texture, Materials, Patterns

2. Terraced Housing - Residential

3. Terraced Housing - Residential

4. High Rise - Residential

5 4

5. Commercial and Public Facilities

Materiality of Context Research

As a starting point for the group work, I was tasked at identifying materials and patterns of the surrounding context. This diagram was the result of this study, which was created with the intention to allow myself and studio memebers to be able to draw inspiration for materiality in our projects from the rich surrounding context.

A Manifesto for Housing - Framing

Graphics from studio member

Existing Elevations -15

Existing Elevations of Cruddas Park, highlighing how to tower and podium stand as two monolitchic slabs with little to connect it to the surroundings.

16-Site Materiality

Framing - A Manifesto for Housing

Graphics from studio members

A Manifesto for Housing - Framing

Cruddas Park in Local Media-17 February 2013

A simple search of ‘Cruddas Park’ brings up a wealth of articles from the local newspaper ‘The Chronicle’. The selected headlines show the perception of Cruddas Park which is mostly a negative one.

June 2019

In June 2019, the tower had the message “2 YEARS AFTER GRENFELL AND THE FIRE DOORS IN THIS BUILDING STILL AREN’T FIT FOR PURPOSE”, followed by “#DEMANDCHANGE” (Hutchinson, 2019) . This call for change highlights the force of the already existing community in the tower, many of which are not afraid to voice their opinions of the site. Highlighting the potential for a community that could be further empowered by architecture.

August 2019

May 2020

Figure 1

Figure 2

18-Wider Context

Framing - A Manifesto for Housing

“In two years’ time, there will be 1.5 million fewer affordable homes across the country than there were in 1980” - Shelter. A vision for social housing. Report. p94.

Graphics from studio members The issues surrounding social housing and even housing in general are not exclusive in the slightest to Cruddas Park. Rather the difficulties and short comings of the housing industry are manifested on a national level. As Wainwright (2019) states, the number of homeless people has doubled in the last five years with the number of affordable homes shrinking. This housing crisis is further added to by the climate crisis, to which the built environment is responsible for nearly 40% of energy related carbon dioxide (UN, 2017). These two crises indeed set the demand for why a change must take place for both housing and architecture as a profession.

A Manifesto for Housing - Framing

Demographics-19

HOUSING TENURE FOR THE TRELLICK TOWER

The demographics show that Cruddas Park House is heavily made up of males who are out of work. With no provisions or community for children it is not suprising no children live in the block. With only 25% of the m residents employed it means the rest of the residents will be spending a lot of time meaning provisions of adequete housing size and community facilities should be a priority.

Age Range

Occupancy

HOUSING OCCUPANCY IN CRUDDAS PARK

Employment

HOUSING Graphics from studio members OCCUPANCY IN CRUDDAS PARK

Gender Imbalance

HOUSING OCCUPANCY IN THE TRELLICK TOWER

CRUDDAS PARK COMPARRISON WITH THE TRELLICK TOWER

These selected demographics highlight the lack of diversity within Cruddas Park. With only 5% of residents under OCCUPANCY 45 and 81% of apartments being single beds, the question is highlighted as to how architectural interventionsINHOUSING THE TRELLICK TOWER can promote a more diverse community on the site. Such diversity could also lead to more balance of the type of residentsCRUDDAS of the site, withCOMPARRISON the majority being retired male. TOWER PARK WITH THEand TRELLICK The demographics show that Cruddas Park House is heavily made up of males who are out of work. With no provisions or community for children it is not suprising no children live in the block. With only 25% of the m residents employed it means the rest of the residents will be spending a lot of time meaning provisions of adequete housing size and community facilities should be a priority.

20-Precedent Study

Framing - A Manifesto for Housing

Figure 3

Alexandra Road This London Council Estate was designed by Neave Brown in 1968 with construction being completed ten years later. It is made up of public housing comprising two parallel pedestrian streets of terraced houses, of four and six storeys, which have a central park between them, a school for 100 mentally handicapped children; community centre, youth club, play centre, and two shops. It was not until 2018 that Brown received the Royal Gold Medal for his work due to current “urgent social relevance” (RIBA, 2018). Alexandra Road is regarded by many as his masterpiece and a model for housing even to this day, indeed it is much more than just housing, t in Neave’s own words, it is “a piece of city” (Waite, 2017).

A Manifesto for Housing - Framing

Precedent Study-21

Figure 4

Trellick Tower Located in west London, this tower designed by architect Erno Goldfinger in 1972 dominates the skyline in a similar manner as Cruddas park. Designed as social housing for the local council, the architect drew inspiration from the modernist principles of Le Corbusier’s Unite d’Habitation for the tower’s dwelling units (Winstanley 2019). Although, the Trellick Tower suffered from years of neglect and a crime ridden atmosphere. Due to local schemes and its designation in 1998 as a Grade II listed building, there was a massive turnaround. The local environment has seen significant reduction in crime and a change in perception. Standing as an example that Cruddas Park has the potential to move past its negative connotations and alike the Trellick Tower become an icon for its city from the modernist era.

22-Masterplan

Framing - A Manifesto for Housing

- Pedestrianise

- Refurbish

- New Housing

- Revitalise

Initial Masterplan - Highlighting my intentions from an early point to refurbish the existing podium and tower, while adding new housing to the site.

A Manifesto for Housing - Framing

Neighbourhood Stratergy-23

24-Apologia

Framing - A Manifesto for Housing

Framing Reflection The research thus far has highlighted the underdeveloped attributes of Cruddas Park, such as the disconnected green spaces or public space which is not welcoming to those living in the community. These areas are highlighted even more through presidential analysis of housing systems that are often brilliant and highly regarded. Indeed, while this study has perhaps shed a negative light on Cruddas Park, it also highlights that there is the framework of great potential. The community of people living in the area lays the foundation for a re-development which can truly invigorate and inspire them and bring a sense of pride to the area. To further my research and understanding of the site and its potential I will need to look at the tactile and spatial aspects of the site as most of my framing research has been on a much broader scale. Once I understand Cruddas Park, I will be able to shape my proposal of a ‘Village within a city’, which combats the issues of both sustainability and the housing crisis. The current global pandemic has placed housing such as Cruddas Park under a microscope, especially with tenants being able to express their struggles on the Chronicle. In the aftermath of the pandemic, we cannot go back to dwellings which do not comfortably allow their occupants to “stay at home”. Rather we must expect and indeed fuel a social housing revolution in the wake of current circumstance. History proves this to be possible through London’s reconfigured infrastructure in the wake of the city’s 1954 cholera epidemic, and 19thcentury New York reaction to the squalid conditions of tenement housing. Indeed, it is often after events such as these or the current pandemic that the conditions for positive change are created.

T E ST I N G

26-Manifesto

Testing - A Manifesto for Housing

A MANIFESTO FOR HOUSING In the light of a global PANDEMIC and current CLIMATE and

HOUSING CRISIS’ the call to “STAY AT HOME”

has

placed UK housing under a spotlight.

This spotlight has further highlighted the short comings of

current

housing and indeed HOUSING STANDARDS which are far from the world leading innovation found in 20th century British

SOCIAL HOUSING and modernism. Housing must become more SUSTAINABLE, both socially and

COMMUNITY through spaces and design which weave into the existing CULTURE and CONTEXT. AFFORDABILITY and FLEXIBILITY will promote DIVERSITY and in turn OWNERSHIP of housing projects for environmentally. It must encourage

its inhabitants.

This sense of a housing type which not only allows but promotes

COMMUNITY, CULTURE and WELL-BEING will create architecture which is animated and activated by its occupants; thus, restoring British Housing to its former optimistic and progressive role.

A Manifesto for Housing - Testing

Reflection-27

Testing Reflection The testing stage of my project was critical in the progression of my design. Throughout this stage I carried out multiple iterations to try and resolve what strategy works best in satisfying the studio manifesto. I initially further developed the neighbourhood strategy that I had created throughout the framing and early testing stages. I formed this with a focus on a new set of flats which looked to reimagine tower living. However, after my testing review, I felt strongly that this approach did not fully satisfy the demands of our manifesto or achieve what I desired for Cruddas Park. In my readings for ARC3015 I came across a quote from Farshid Mousavvi which stated, “The pandemic has called into question the efficiency of all the old housing systems ... it’s up to us to produce the visions of tomorrow”. This became my line of inquiry and goal for Cruddas Park. It was with this line of inquiry and the studio manifesto in mind that I decided to revisit my proposal following the testing review. This was challenging as I found myself working from massing once again and felt as if I was falling behind, however it was a crucial decision and the additional iteration led to a design which I felt truly satisfied the manifesto for housing which we had created.

“The pandemic has called into question the efficiency of all the old housing systems ... it’s up to us to produce the visions of tomorrow.” - Moussavi (2020)

28-Tower Strategy

Testing - A Manifesto for Housing

1x Existing Tower Layout

As a start point for my design testing, I examined the existing tower to better know the approaches I could propose. Understanding the structure was key as it immediately became clear that with the buildings pre-cast modular concrete construction it would be safer and more affordable to limit alterations to the buildings structure. Having removed partition walls from the floor plan it became clear that the existing one and two bed flats offered little space. As such I researched techniques such as the scissor flats of Unite d’Habitation to explore how to improve the flats.

Existing Tower Flat Sizes

Figure 5- Scissor Flat Layout

A Manifesto for Housing - Testing

Roof Access

Tower Strategy-29

Sun Rooms + Balconies

Repurposed Corridoors

Access

Inital Testing Tower Strategy - Showing how I wanted to adress Cruddas Park Tower

30-Environmental Diagrams

Testing - A Manifesto for Housing

Sun Path

Access

Prevailing Wind

Biomass Energy Plant

To further develop my project, it was crucial to understand how my proposals would work in response to site analysis. As such I studied elements such as the sun path, prevailing wind and access to the site. These observations led to a much richer understanding of the site which I have been able to refer back to throughout my project and test how my ideas work in response to the site analysis.

A Manifesto for Housing - Testing

Precedent Study-31

Figure 6

Halen Estate Located in Bern, Switzerland, this gentle-density housing district by Atelier 5 is another striking example of what housing can achieve. This high-density, low rise approach empowers a community through the addition of common spaces and public utilities such as shops and a swimming pool. The staggered south facing layout is best for both solar access and natural ventilation which were key principles in its design. The project is also a great example of how an existing slope can be used and worked with to the benefit of preventing housing units from looking into each other. In praise of this building one resident stated “Life in a well-equipped community is cheaper, you might have small rooms in your home, but most of your time, particularly for children, is spent together in communal areas” (Macdonald, 2013), highlighting the benefit of common semi-private space for residents.

32-Precedent Study

Testing - A Manifesto for Housing

Figure 7

Wohnpark Alt Erlaa Located in Vienna these housing blocks by Harry Gluck are regarded highly for their innovative approach to social housing. Built between 1973-86, they stand even today as an example of how successful social housing can and indeed should be, having even recently been questioned to be ‘the best social housing in the world’ on a TV series aired on Chanel 4 in the UK. Many of these apartments grant residents private green space, even in high rise living. This ambitious project combines the units to the whole through using public spaces which include a church, shopping centre and several parks. In addition to these public spaces the project creates semi-public spaces for the residents such as swimming pools on the roof, creating social housing which is truly great to live in, thus creating a sense of pride and ownership among the residents.

A Manifesto for Housing - Testing

Key Massing Itterations-33

Key Itteration 1 Developments from this stage aimed to better work with the shading of Cruddas Park House.

Key Itteration 2 Having found better lighting on the edge of the podium, this massing failed to provide duel-aspect ventilation throughout.

Key Itteration 3 This final massing granted both sunlight and duel aspect possibilities for any additional dwellings on the site. Massing Models

Key Itterations

34-Testing Review

Testing - A Manifesto for Housing A

Shops

Communal Space

College

Library

Shops

Communal Space

Plan - 1st Floor 1:200 : A1

1 2 Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

En Suite Bathroom

Utility

Kitchen Dining

Living

Workspace

Plan - 4th Floor 1:200 : A3

1 2

4 5

10m

4 5

10m

I developed my final massing iteration with a focus on the new flats to the South of the site and the podium. I looked to explore how a modern set of flats could challenge the existing towers by proposing a new approach to living in flats. At ground level I looked at how to increase permeability of the site to the surrounding context by opening it up at select points on all elevations.

A Manifesto for Housing - Testing

Testing Review-35

Restaurant On the second floor I looked to explore how I could create co-working space for the people that would occupy the site. It was this scheme that I presented in my testing review, which proved to be a pivotal moment in the development of my project.

Communal Space College

College

Restaurant Communal Workspace

Flats A

Plan - 2nd Floor 1:200 : A1

1 2

4 5

10m

36-Testing Review

Testing - A Manifesto for Housing

Strategy Isometric used in Testing Review - Illustrating the carved podium, existing tower refurbishment and new flats on the South

A Manifesto for Housing - Testing

Testing Review-37

Key Perspective from Testing Review - Used to illustarte new communal space on the site

38-Sketchbook work

Testing - A Manifesto for Housing

Following my testing review I was not satisfied with the projected as I felt it did not truly satisfy the demands of my manifesto and my goal to create a ‘vision of tomorrow’. As such, following my testing review I decided to take a few steps ‘back’ and re-approach my design with what I had learnt throughout framing and testing up to this point. To do this I reflected on what I reflected on what I felt was necessary to satisfy the manifesto and was drawn to the themes of addressing the housing and climate crisis through a communitybased response, which was a focus I felt my testing review proposal did not truly satisfy. Post Review Sketchbook Page - Showing early stages of new approach

A Manifesto for Housing - Testing

Sketchbook Work-39

Quick experiments led me to realise that an approach more close linked to my initial framing research would better create a ‘vision of tomorrow’. As these pages from my sketchbook show, I was looking at how I could apply gentle density to the site to both soften the impact of new housing and also allow it to better fit into the surrounding context. I was also interested in the concept I had explored in testing of providing co-working space, however I wanted this to become the heart of the podium rather than simply a feauture of it.

Sketchbook Page of New Approach Early Stages

40-Site Section

The site section became the key drawing for my new approach. I intended to create something that benefited the surrounding and existing communities, both in function and appearance. I also wanted the project to allow Cruddas Park to fit more peacefully onto the site through the addition of gentle density and reworking the routes through the site. This site section shows how it currently looks and how Cruddas Park seemingly disregards the slope of the site, whereas terraced housing to the north almost mirrors it, providing a concept I wished to explore further.

Existing Site Section

42-Itteration Development

Testing - A Manifesto for Housing

Dwellings Dwellings

College

Dwellings

Communal Space

Co-working Space

Library College

Workshop

Section - AA 1:200 : A3 1 2

4 5

10m

Initial Section Masiing

Study of entarnce thershold

From this point I looked to develop the project on a variety of scales. I started exploring how I could use the existing podium levels as the base of housing which steps up from the park. I was also interested in how thresholds would work within the various housing types and looked to provide defendable space for the residents. These studies set out to create a design which satisfied the manifesto aims across all scales.

A Manifesto for Housing - Testing

Final Testing Massing-43

This model was the final model from my testing stages and was used for my technical analysis in ARC3013. All-though far from complete at this stage it had begun to satisy the principles of the manifesto through better responding to the community and existing site. The new flats from my testing review were adapted and moved the north end of the site. While newly designed terraced housing stepped down the southern end of the site. The placement of the new housing minimised the impact of the shadow cast by the tower and responded to the sun path by allowing all new housing to be south orientated. It was from this final massing that I synthesised by project. Final Testing Massing

Thi n ki n g Thro u g h M a ki n g

A Manifesto for Housing - TTM

For my thinking through making piece, I wanted to explore a detail of how an existing structure can be repurposed for a new architectural function. My regeneration project of Cruddas Park houses an existing grid of concrete columns. In the interest of sustainability, I would like to adapt and reuse these where possible to serve another purpose rather than demolishing them. As such I decided to explore how an existing concrete column could be adapted to support a CLT slab, which would create a sheltered walkway.

Initial Idea-45

3D Model of Walkway

Initial Ideas in Sketchbook

46-Junction

TTM - A Manifesto for Housing

Junction Explored

Exploded Axonometric

A Manifesto for Housing - TTM

Process-47

Process of Model Making - Created from construction site ‘waste’ in the spirit of the detail.

48-Final 1:2 Model

TTM - A Manifesto for Housing

Overall, I was happy with the final model, especially given that I was able to recycle materials from a construction site which otherwise would have been discarded. While this detail was not used in the final project it served as a key inspiration for how I could adapt the existing structure where needed. Final Model of Junction at 1:2

SY N T H E S I S

50-Precedent Study

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing

Figure 8

LILAC (Low Impact Living Affordable Community) Located in Leeds, United Kingdom; Lilac serves not only as an inspiration for sustainable architecture, but also as a model of how such an ambitious project can be achieved in a way that makes it affordable for residents, an attribute crucial in addressing the housing crisis. Lilac is a “co-housing community of 20 eco-build households in West Leeds. The homes and land are managed by residents through a Mutual Home Ownership Society, a pioneering financial model that ensures permanent affordability.” (Lilac, 2021) With a strong focus on community and sustainability the project shares many of the principles of my project, making it a crucial case study. The financial model of Lilac also me inspired to research how my project at Cruddas Park could work economically.

A Manifesto for Housing - Synthesis Having been inspired by the Lilac precedent I realised to better fulfil the manifesto I must figure out the economic ‘vision of tomorrow’ for Cruddas Park. In my research I discovered Community Land Trusts (CLTs). These are set up and run by ordinary people to develop and manage homes as well as other assets important to the community. The CLTs act as long-term stewards of housing, ensuring that the area remains affordable, by basing the value on what people earn in the area, not just for now but for every future occupier (CLT, 2020). These CLTs have the potential of government funding support if they are a regeneration project focused on the local community. As such a community land trust was chosen as the procurement vision for my project.

Procurement-51

Elswick Communal

Elswick

City

Shops

Library

Park

Figure 9 - How a community Land Trust Works

College

Diagram of communal links to Cruddas Park

52-Neighbourhood Strategy

Connections between site and the surrounding context.

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing

A Manifesto for Housing - Synthesis

Program-53

Site Section AA 1:500 : A2 5

The program of the site is organised in a way which allows Cruddas Park to better fit into the surrounding context through a ‘gentle density’ approach. The organisation of the new housing mirrors the terraced housing to the north while also filtering the site into the park to the south, increasing permeability for surrounding communities.

- Housing - Newcastle College - Housing - Atrium - Newcastle College - Work Space - Atrium

- Shops - Work Space - Building Services - Shops - Library - Building Services - Communal Space - Library - Communal Space

Program - Highligthing a network of functions to serve the community.

N 50m

54-1st Floor Plan

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing

At ground level the podium is carved to increase permeability to the site. With the addition of stairs on the Southern and South-Eastern parts of the site Cruddas Park can now be accessed by the public from all sides. This combined with the spaces within the Podium allows Cruddas Park to fulfil the manifesto aim of creating architecture ‘which is animated and activated by its occupants’ and the surrounding community.

4 2

- Existing Structure

Communal Building 1 - Activity Room 2 - Activity Room 3 - Reception 4 - Cruddas Park House Lobby 5 - Activity Room Newcastle College 6 - Reception 7 - Classroom 8 - IT room New build flats 9 - Lobby

Shops 10 - Supermarket 11 - Cafe Commercial Building 12 - Office Space 13 - Shop 14- Shop New housing 15 - Access to second floor street level

Plan - 1st Floor 1:200 : A1

1 2

4 5

10m

A Manifesto for Housing - Synthesis

2nd Floor Plan-55

7 1 2

The stepped terraced housing which is introduced to the streets adds gentle density living to the site and transforms sections of the podium into streets. These streets perform as a filter between the public (podium) and the private (front gardens/ houses), highlighting the focus on communal space and architecture.

- Existing Structure

Communal Building 1 - Welfare Centre 2 - Multifunctional Room 3 - Multifunctional Room 4 - Multifunctional Room 5 - Activity Room 6 - Activity Room Newcastle College 7 - Classroom 8 - Cafeteria 9 - Kitchen

Communal room 10 - Community space Supermarket 11 - Supermarket Second Floor N

Plan - 2nd Floor 1:200 : A1

1 2

4 5

10m

56-Modularity

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing

- Modular steel winter garden

- Modular CLT and glulam beam structure

- New Primary Structure

- New Secondary Structure

- Existing Primary Structure - Modular SIP and Posi-joist system

“Off-site construction is based on two key principles: efficiency and quality” (Hairstans, 2019). Efficiency, quality and sustainability are key goals in construction of this project and as such offsite modular construction has been a considered thoughout the design of all new build elements in the project.

A Manifesto for Housing - Synthesis

Modularity-57 7 6

Wall build up -

5 4

1 - Timber Cladding 2 - Batten / Cavity Layer 3 - Breather Membrane 4 - SIP 5 - Air Tight Vapor Control Layer 6 - Service Battens 7 - Plasterboard

To minimise construction time on-site, modular elements including the entire wall build up for houses are prefabricated at a nearby factory which is currently unused. Flatbed transportation is used to minimise the required space in needed in transport, lowering the amount of trips needed and consequently the projects carbon footprint. The proximity of the factory to the site further lowers the carbon footprint and also creates new job opportunities for the local community through the establishment of a new modular construction trade in the area.

2 1

SIP Wall Build Up

Flatbed transportation (ARC3013)

Cruddas Park

Pre-fab Factory

Location of Pre-fab Factory

Podium

A Manifesto for Housing - Synthesis

Public Realm-61

The carved podium creates a new public realm in the form of streets, an atrium, and a courtyard. This allows the residents and surrounding communities to animate the site. The courtyard, college, workspaces, and library open onto the co-working atrium, which is carved through all levels of the podium, becoming the centre of the site.

Exterior Public Realm Perspective - Courtyard

Movement through site diagram.

62-PAGE TOPIC

Roof

Glulam Beam

Steel Bracket

Existing Column

Column Bracing

Co-Work Atrium Collumn Detail - Repuposing of podium considered in detail.

New flats

64-New Flats

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing

Brick skin of flats mirrors the housing around the site

New Flats Floor Plan - The two-core system used in these flats removes the need for a corridor, providing a defendable space for occupants.

Plan - 2 Bed Flats 1:100 : A3

1 2

4 5

10m

New one and two bed apartments are built on the north façade of the site. This allows flexibility in modifying the existing tower without displacing residents while also providing flats for new occupants. These new flats are south orientated to maximise passive solargain and offer residents workspace and dualaspect apartments. The materiality of the new flats takes inspiration from the brick terraced housing to the north of the site, allowing Cruddas Park to relate to its context to the north even in materiality.

A Manifesto for Housing - Synthesis

Typical Upper Level Plan-65

Dual Aspect

- Existing Structure

1 - Existing Tower 2 - New Build Flats

Typical Upper Floor 1:200 : A1

1 2

4 5

10m

Typical Upper Floor Plan - Illustrating how the existing tower and new flats co-exist with minimal disruption of views. Attributes such as dual aspect living, and private outdoor space are common between the two buildings.

66-Fire Strategy

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing - Refuge zone - Fire Hydrant - Distance between lift and escape stairs Fire safety is an essential factor for any housing. This project has been designed in accordance to ‘Approved document B’ to ensure that it complies with fire safety regulations. Fire stairs are provided in the new flats which meet the required standards. While in the houses, protected corridors and escape windows are used to ensure fire safety. The whole site is split into compartments in order to help prevent the spread of fire in the dense site.

- 2m

Figure 10

Firefighting stairs

5m 5m 4m

6m 2m

Ground floor plan

Compartments

First floor plan 5

- Protected Stairway

30m

Houses mean of escape 0

0.5

1.0

2.0

- Escape Windows

Figure 11

Graphics from ARC3013.

A Manifesto for Housing - Synthesis

Flats Fire Strategy-67

Each set of flats houses two escape enclosed and protected escape routes out of the building. In the new tower these cores are reimagined in a way that removes the need of a corridor through having two independent cores which open onto two flats on each level, through this the occupants have more privacy and ownership of their entrance. At ground level these means of escape have direct, or protected routes out of the building. As proven by the Grenfell disaster, it is crucial that fire-safety is considered and as such no combustible materials are used in the wall build ups of these buildings and materials such as brick, steel and glass form the skin of the flats.

Existing Tower Fire Escapes

- Fire Escapes

New Flats Fire Escapes

68-Ground Floor Fire Strategy

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing

Ground Floor Fire Escapes

- Fire Escapes

Existing tower

70-Existing Tower Program

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing 2x

2x 3x

3x 4x

- Reprogramed flat layout

4x 3x 2x

- Existing flat layout

The tower strategy reprograms the existing single-aspect flats to allow all dwellings to be dual-aspect, granting the benefits of natural ventilation and both east and west sunlight. The adjustment of flat sizes also increases the diversity of residents within the tower block.

A Manifesto for Housing - Synthesis

Winter Gardens-71

Steel Structure

Lacaton & Vassal - Bordeaux

Vertical Brise Soleil Polycarbonate

The modular winter gardens are placed on both the east and west elevations of the existing tower, providing private external space for the residents. Having been inspired by the Lacaton and Vassal project in Bordeaux polycarbonate is used to prevent overheating with the assistance of adjustable vertical brise soleil.

Glazing

Existing Tower Winter Gardens Build Up

Figure 12

Floor Plan Space added by Winter Gardens

72-Unit Study

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing

These figures show how the approaches to the tower impact on the scale of the unit. The new program allows for a level of flexibility within the dwelling, allowing the apartment to cater for flexible and changing lifestyles. While the winter gardens provide private external space to the residents and improve the efficiency of the unit.

- Living Space (Kitchen, Living room) - Bedroom - Work space - Bathroom - Storage Flexibility Diagrams Tower 3 Bed Unit Study

Houses

74-Unit Study

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing

5 Bed House Unit Study - All structural elements are held in the façades and and posi-joist floors, granting flexibility of internal spaces to residents.

A Manifesto for Housing - Synthesis

1:20 Detail-75

Technical Section 1:20 - A1 0

0.5

- Damp proof course - Breather Membrane - Air tight vapour control layer

From ARC3013

The houses take a fabric first approach and are constructed using a modular high performing SIP system which is then clad in Scottish larch. This building fabric combines with systems such as a MVHR and shading elements on the south façade to maximise efficiency and lower the operational cost of the buildings. Creating sustainable homes which remain affordable through the community land trust.

Southern Shading

76-Houses Build-up

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing

Glazing

Lighweight Timber Frame

Green Roof System

Posi-joist

SIP walls clad in Scottish Larch

Posi-joist

Porch Timber Structural Elements - (Structural OSB board of SIPS hidden)

SIP walls clad in Scottish Larch Modular Elemenst Exploded Axo

These homes are prefabricated at the off-site factory and transported to Cruddas Park for assembly. In the interest of sustainability timber is used in the structure of these homes wherever possible and thanks to their low height they can use timber in the wall build up while still being in harmony with building regulations. The structure creates a porch at the entry point of the house providing residents with a private sheltered space which opens onto their personal front gardens and then a public street which serves as the buffer between the houses and the podium, allowing the public and the private to co-exist in harmony.

Site Map-78

A Manifesto for Housing - Synthesis

The Cruddas Park Community Land Trust is completed. What was once a monolithic slab and tower has been opened up to the surrounding community and draws the park northward. The introduction of gentle density to the site makes it fit in the surrounding context, while the sustainable principles of re-use and efficient new build are evident throughout. These elements, combined with the financial model of the project which ensures permanent affordability for both current and future occupants, allow Cruddas Park to stand as a manifesto of what can be achieved for housing in the UK.

Existing Site Map

A Manifesto for Housing - Chapter

Page Topic-79

Cruddas Park Community Land Trust - A Manifesto for Housing

82-Reflection

Synthesis - A Manifesto for Housing

Synthesis Reflection Having ‘completed’ this project I can reflect on it and feel accomplished with the process. Indeed, there is still a great deal to be resolved and improved on, and further iterations that could be made; however, I feel I have taken the project to a point where it satisfies the studio manifesto and only lacks some details due to the scale of the project and tight timeframe. I am especially happy with the work I was able to create between the testing review and the final review as I felt for most of that time as if I were behind on work and questioned if making another iteration following the testing review was the right choice. The synthesis experience has led me to have more confidence in my ideas and ability to see them through. I truly believe that what I have designed stands as a manifesto for housing, not only in its principles of quality and sustainability, but in the economic model with which I have planned it. I will continue to research these themes in my own professional practice and will hopefully be able to carry the same approaches and principles into my future career. This portfolio carries the narrative of why there must be change in the housing sector and in particular Cruddas Park (framing), it then explores ways in which this might be achieved (testing), and finally shows how I propose these changes can be achieved throughout all scales (synthesis). This is evident from how the strategy impacts from the whole to the detail, from challenging the economic model for housing on a national scale, to addressing the relationship between site, context and neighbourhood, or addressing how the single unit functions and the key details which underline the principles of the project. This variety of explorations at different scales has satisfied by goal to create a ‘vision of tomorrow’ for Cruddas Park which truly stands as my manifesto for housing..

Process of Project

T H E M AT I C CAS E ST U DY

84-Thematic Case Study

Wohnheim Sargfabrik BKK-2 Architects Co-Housing Vienna, Austria

Aggie Barber

Thematic Case Study-85

Edward Bousﬁeld

86-Thematic Case Study

Olivia Ewing

Thematic Case Study-87

88-Thematic Case Study (My pages)

Thematic Case Study (My Pages)-89

90-Thematic Case Study (My Pages)

Thematic Cast Study (My Pages)-91

92-Thematic Case Study

Thematic Case Study-93

Bibliography // List of Figures

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

94-Thematic Case Study Chapter 3

Chapter 5

Chapter 4

B i b l i o g ra p hy

96-Bibliography

Bibliography Barber, Peter. Project Interrupted: Lectures by British Housing Architects. The Architecture Foundation. 2018. CLTs. Community Land Trust. (2020) [Online]. Accessed - http://www.communitylandtrusts.org.uk/ Global Status Report, 2017. UN Environment. 2017. Hairstans, Rober. Off-site and industrialised timber construction: Delivering quality and efficiency. 2nd ed. Trada. 2019. chapter 3. HM Government. (2019). ‘Approved document B (Fire safety) volume 2: Dwellings. [Online]. Accessed: https:// www.gov.uk/government/publications/fire-safety-approved-document-b Hutchinson, L. “Newcastle’s Cruddas Park lit up with safety message ahead of Grenfell anniversary”. The Chronicle [online]. Jun 2019. Available from - https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/newcastlescruddas-park-lit-up-16426031 Lilac Co-op. (2020). Lilac. [Online]. Accessed - https://www.lilac.coop/ Macdonald, H. “Estate of the art A progressive 1960s concrete estate in the middle of precious woodland might send alarm bells ringing in many design circles, but Siedlung Halen just outside Bern is a quiet, friendly triumph where nurture sits alongside nature.” Monocle. 2013. Available at - https://monocle.com/magazine/issues/65/theyear-ahead/ Moussavi, Farshid. Dual-Use: Farshid Moussavi on rethinking residential architecture in the wake of Covid-19. Harvard Graduate School of Design. 2020. Moussavi, Farshid. Project Interrupted: Lectures by British Housing Architects. The Architecture Foundation. 2018. Nichol, R. “‘I’ve had tears running down my cheeks’: Newcastle high-rise residents speak of lockdown struggles”.

Bibliography The Chronicle [online]. May 2020. Available from - https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/ coronavirus-newcastle-north-east-elswick-18131493 RIBA. “Neave Brown wins Royal Gold Medal for architecture”. 2018. Available from - https://www.architecture. com/knowledge-and-resources/knowledge-landing-page/neave-brown-wins-royal-gold-medal-for-architecture Shelter. A vision for social housing. Report. p94. Studio brief. A Manifesto for Housing (2020). Wainwright, O. “Form follows finance”. Small Talk, Newcastle University. 2019. Audio. Waite, R. “Tributes to Neave Brown: ‘An architect who designed the setting for social life and relationships’” September 2017. Available from- https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/tributes-to-neave-brown-an-architectwho-designed-the-setting-for-social-life-and-relationships Winstanley, T. “AD Classics: Trellick Tower / Erno Goldfinger” 18 Jan 2019. ArchDaily. Available at -://www. archdaily.com/151227/ad-classics-trellick-tower-erno-goldfinger> ISSN 0719-8884

Bibliography-97

L i s t o f Fi g u r e s

List of Figures List of figures Figure 1 – Cruddas Park lit up. Hutchinson, L. “Newcastle’s Cruddas Park lit up with safety message ahead of Grenfell anniversary”. The Chronicle [online]. Jun 2019. Available from - https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/ north-east-news/newcastles-cruddas-park-lit-up-16426031 Figure 2 – Collage of Chronicle headlines. Hutchinson, L. Nichol, R. See bibliography. Figure 3 – Alexandra Road images – Waite, R. “Tributes to Neave Brown: ‘An architect who designed the setting for social life and relationships’” September 2017. Available from- https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/ tributes-to-neave-brown-an-architect-who-designed-the-setting-for-social-life-and-relationships Figure 4 – Trellick Tower images - Winstanley, T. “AD Classics: Trellick Tower / Erno Goldfinger” 18 Jan 2019. ArchDaily. Available at -://www.archdaily.com/151227/ad-classics-trellick-tower-erno-goldfinger> ISSN 07198884 Figure 5 – Corbusier diagram – Easton, K. “Views on Le Corbusier’s Unite d’Habitation”. May 1951. Available at https://www.architectural-review.com/essays/views-on-le-corbusiers-unite-dhabitation Figure 6 – Halen Estate Images – Available at - https://halen360.ch/en/estate Figure 7- Wohnpark Alt Erlaa Images – Stefan Boeri Architetti. VF Manifesto. Available at - https://www. stefanoboeriarchitetti.net/en/vertical-forest-en/wohnpark-alterlaa-harry-gluck/ Figure 8 – Lilac co-op images. Lilac Co-op. (2020). Lilac. [Online]. Accessed - https://www.lilac.coop/ Figure 9 – CLTs Diagram - CLTs. Community Land Trust. (2019) [Online]. Accessed - http://www. communitylandtrusts.org.uk/ Figure 10 – Fire Regulations. HM Government. (2019). ‘Approved document B (Fire safety) volume 2: Dwellings. [Online]. Accessed: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fire-safety-approved-document-b Figure 11 – ibid Figure 12 – Lacaton & Vassal, Bordeaux images – Available at - https://www.lacatonvassal.com/index.php?idp=80

List of Figures-99

Cu l t u ra l B i b l i o g ra p hy

Cultural Bibliography-101

SMALL TALK

KARAKUSEVIC PAUL KARAKUSEVIC Working with local authorities across London and the South East, Karakusevic Carson Architects are one of the UK’s leading housing practices. From masterplanning and estate turnaround to infill and refurbishment, the multi-award winning practice is at the forefront of a new era for public housing, championing the role of councils to define their own futures, upholding dwelling quality and embedding community and co-design processes. In this talk, founder Paul Karakusevic discusses contemporary practice in the context of the UK’s shifting council housing landscape, highlighting the projects that are today redefining public housing and public-led city making.

ARCHITECTS

KARAKUSEVIC-CARSON

Public Housing Works

MAR 17 @ 5.30pm

Small Talk

Project Interrupted

Riverside Sunderland Webinars

I was able to organise and host several student run lectures in the series ‘Small Talk’. These proved to be greatly inspiring for me, especially in the exclusive dialogue shared with leading architects both before and after their lectures. The lecture that has influenced by design most would be the ‘Public Housing Works’ by Paul Karakusevic of Karakusevi-Crason. It was incredibly enlightening and sparked many great ideas in my mind of what I could achieve in my housing proposals.

I purchased this book to better understand the context of my studio. It proved to be a crucial read for me, especially in my ARC3015 module as I drew many of the theories I explored in that essay from this book. It was incredible at highlighting what social housing can achieve. Through comparing works of architects such as Neave Brown and Peter Barber, this book explores what are characteristics of truly magnificent affordable housing, post post-war modernist and contemporary, providing me with a great deal of inspiration.

I was fortunate enough to sign up for the TRADA university design challenge for housing in Sunderland. This started with a series of webinars from a vast array of specialist and explored themes such as sustainability, affordability, modularity and off-site construction. It was particularly great to hear from Stirling prize winners Mikhail Riches in a lecture where they presented the design and principles of goldsmith street which furthered my knowledge of an amazing example of affordable housing.

102-Cultural Bibligraphy

Small Talk

SMALL TALK

KARAKUSEVIC PAUL KARAKUSEVIC

Throughout my second year I co-ran small talk, a student run lecture series which looks to get leading architectural thinkers in conversation with students to help bridge the gap between university and practice while also providing inspiration for the next generation of architects. In my final year I have ran the series and overseen the switch of the lectures going online which has been greatly successful, both in those who were able to join us as lecturers and the number of students who attended. This was ultimately a year of great growth for Small Talk and I was honoured to both organise and host the lectures for the posters on this page.

Working with local authorities across London and the South East, Karakusevic Carson Architects are one of the UK’s leading housing practices. From masterplanning and estate turnaround to infill and refurbishment, the multi-award winning practice is at the forefront of a new era for public housing, championing the role of councils to define their own futures, upholding dwelling quality and embedding community and co-design processes. In this talk, founder Paul Karakusevic discusses contemporary practice in the context of the UK’s shifting council housing landscape, highlighting the projects that are today redefining public housing and public-led city making.

MAR 17 @ 5.30pm

ARCHITECTS

KARAKUSEVIC-CARSON

Public Housing Works

SMALL TALK

LORENZO BODD LORENZO BODDI BIG ASSOCIATE

Small Talk will be honoured to host BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) for the f irst in a series of student run lectures. Lorenzo Boddi is an associate at BIG with a vast range of knowledge and experience with projects at the multi award-winning f irm. He is currently the project manager of their new Gateway for the Milan’s Citylife District and will shed light on Mi the design process that led to the competition winning design. He will also discuss other BIG projects to shed light on the f irms principles and beliefs, such as a variety of their Copenhagen projects as well as their recently announced ‘no.1 quayside’ which will be constructed in Newcastle Upon Tyne. Lorenzo N Boddi will give us an insight into the philosophy, creative process, and work at BIG in what will be an unmissable online event.

OCT 21 @ 5.30pm

Cultural Bibliography-103

Thematic Case Study Readings 1

A p p e n d i x - Pro c e s s Wo r k

Process Work-105 To maintain a graphically coherent and concise portfolio some process work was not shown in all stages and was summarised. Such process work can be seen here.

106-Process Work

Process Work-107

108-Process Work Elevation - South 1:200 : A1

1 2

4 5

10m

Process Work-109 A

Flats

Flats N

Plan - 4th Floor 1:200 : A1

1 2

4 5

10m

110-Process Work

Building Services College

Shops

Workshop

Lobby

Plan - Basement 1:200 : A1

1 2

4 5

10m

Process Work-111

112-Process Work

Process Work-113

114-Process Work

Utility Stairs

Living

Bed 1

Bed 2

WC Kitchen Living

Atrium

Process Work-115

116-Process Work

Process Work-117

118-Process Work

Final Review Board

P O RT FO L I O Brian Cox