Natalia Stasik Portfolio

FISHING FOR WASTE Architectural Portfolio Natalia Stasik | 180374582 Newcastle University

CONTENTS

Natalia Stasik Fishing For Waste | Ocean Plastics Recycling Center Stage 3 | Ghost in the Machine

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ILLUSTRATED REFLECTIVE DIARY

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PROJECT FRAMING

THEMATIC CASE STUDY REPORT

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PROJECT TESTING Thinking Through Making Piece

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PROJECT SYNTHESIS

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CULTURAL BIBLIOGRAPHY

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BIBLIOGRAPHY / REFERENCES

APPENDIX

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ILLUSTRATED REFLECTIVE DIARY

My final year of architectural education has played out to be the most challenging year of my university experience. Through feeling a mixture of emotions, barriers and moments of helplessness, I have found a way to see them as a part of my journey. With the support and guidance from my tutors who have guided and challenched me to achieve a complex scheme of my project I developmed myself as creative and aspiring architect.

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Reflecting on my own development throughout this year I have discovered that I have always been fascinated in environmental design and the impact of architecture on the inhabitants and nature. My project and all the themes in my studio (Ghost in The Machine) were very challenging, however they allowed me to expand my knowledge and stimulate my own interests in those particular aspects. That not only improved my techniques as a designer, but also has made me feel a sense of freedom to explore the ways to reduce the impact of the build industry on our planet.

My dissertation and the site visit in Redcar were crucial in the development of my project and understanding the relation between a human, nature and architecture in my design. A study of the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright and his theory of organic architecture in my dissertation made me understand the importance of linking those three interconnected aspects. One of the main interests in my studio were people and their relations with systems and infrastructures, so it easily let me to explore my ideas in response to studio themes but also to apply them into my design. System thinking approach has emphasized the need to think about various relationships between tangible and tangible forces. Firstly, I focused on green technologies and their connections with the city, habitants, local economy and all other aspects they interact with. By exploring more systems on Redcar I gradually have understood the importance of being able to recognize those relationships. All of this in order to create a design which responds to the context of the site.

Since the beginning of my project I was planning to visit Redcar to better understand the site and the systems there. I really enjoyed my trip and the post-industrial character of Redcar with old steelworks in the landscape, however after I came back home I felt extremely disappointed. Though the city center was clean and lively, the view of beautiful beaches full of marine litter really caught my memory. I started to explore this issue in different tasks in our studio and it made me realize how devastating the problem of arti-social behavior became and the scale of damage it causes to the environment, health of all organisms and economic structures like tourism. Within my project I decided to create

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ILUSTRATED REFLECTIVE REPORT

a scheme by integrating my studio’s themes which will give an end to marine pollution not only in Redcar but also in the whole North East England. The Ocean Plastics Recycle Center will be a new recycling plant with an educational program for the public.

My design methodology became mainly focused on user experience and sustainability to enhance an environment-friendly industry. The readings and essay for the Theory of practice module were essential for me to become aware of the theories behind my design. It made me fully understand the need to carefully explore the systems and processes of recycling which will take place in my building before the designing phase.

One of the key readings in my studio and fantastic inspiration for my project was a short story - ’Deep End’ by J. G. Ballard. The apocalyptic vision of the Earth has enabled me to understand how easily humanity can lead to natural disasters if no actions will be taken. Therefore, in the scheme of my design I decided to enhance the experience, and the connection between the visitor and the process of recycling to promote environmental awareness and education for youngsters, students and adults. To represent the user experience in my building I created a series of perspective renders to show the atmosphere of my building. I found it very challenging as for the first time I was using rendering software but even so I became really fascinated by the ability of the digital to create realistic and captivating virtual imagery.

The Professional Practice report has guided me to understand the life realization of my project but also the processes and collaborations that follow the RIBA Plan of Work. I began to think about the influence of my project on the future of Redcar. While thinking about the scheme of my project one of my main aims was to respond to Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council planning strategy. As a result, my scheme will not only grow the environmental and recycling sector but also will encourage a clean and more efficient industry. Furthermore, the recycling center with an education program will improve the local economy by offering a lot of new jobs and attracting a lot of tourists and investors. The Integrated Construction Report has been significant in connecting my environmental approach and economic objectives with the process of designing. My final design benefits from changing the steel frame (primary structure) into a glulam frame but also from exposed joists under floor junctions and roof giving the building a beautiful natural aesthetic. The report linked together all technical, environmental and structural aspects of the building enhancing architectural expression and visitors’ experience with the process of recycling.

ILUSTRATED REFLECTIVE REPORT

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PROJECT FRAMNG

This stage of the project has enabled me to define the line of inquiry and approach to the design, generating the themes and methods to be further used in the designing process. It began with investigation of tangible and intangible systems in Redcar and mapping them digitally. During the process of Framing we were asked to read books by J. G. Ballard and Timothy Morton which allowed me to fully understand relations between people, systems and infrastructures. Furthermore, we focused on user user centric design to enhance the experience,

and the connection between the visitor and the process

As a result, the framing output has looked at the issue of system of anti-behavior and marine pollutions in Redcar in order to bring positive changes in the future. I was exploring the ways to collect marine litter, to process it and to promote environmental awarness throughout my design.

1) User-centricity in the Ballardian world, one where the protagonists experience forms the nucleus at which the architecture is designed; protagonists spanning human, animal or even non-living entities.

2) Circular economy as out hope for better future. Renewable energy sources which lose their value as little as possible, get an opportunity for ‘’second life’’.

3) Consider scale from the international through down to the darkness corner, non-reay that we must design unique to place to create more emotive architecture - individuality is intriguing.

4) Utilize and re-merge the legacy of a seaside town taking into account the rise of ‘staycationing’ to bring a new vision of sustainable tourism in Redcar

5) Manifest in ecosystems of all scales. When system is changing, change cannot be ignored and the thought of design must take into account. Timothy Morton’s ‘Ecological Thought’ by considering the environmental effects of rapid industrialization and globalization.

6) Bring both tangible and intangible systems together. The tangible is obvious, its presence is seen and felt by all who come across it. The intangible is often obscured, slightly out of reach. With persistence, its presence is revealed.

7) Tether together complex systems and connecting objects, places and people to one another nurturing interconnectedness at all scales.

8) Consider a concept in which the architecture can be dynamic, a method in which engages the user, harvesting energy and movement.

9) Change the systems in place by augmenting, disrupting and projecting in order to improve their functioning by cultivating distinctive concepts which challenge their significance in the presence and future

‘In a landscape where nothing officially exists (otherwise it would not be a ‘desert’), absolutely anything becomes thinkable, and may consequentially happen’ Reyner Banham

STUDIO MANIFESTO GLOSARY TERMS

Systemic design: integrates systems thinking and human-centered design, with the intension of helping designers cope with complex design projects, Tangible: able to be shown, felt or touched Intangible: unable to be touched, not having psyhical presence.

Interconnection: a situation where two things come tohether and interact.

Dynamic: having a lot of ideas, to keep evolving them and explore in various fields User: design to prioritise people’s experience Circular Economy: visualizing how different variables in a system are interrelated.

Scale: be mindful of various scales, both macro as system and micto as individual Economy of tourism: constrains on development such as social and community interests

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FRAMING I STUDIO MANIFESTO

10) Consider that modernity and technology are intertwined, as great infrastructure dies due to new technological means we must address the politics of its nature; how can design transcend and become usable within the future technological world?

STUDIO INTRODUCTION | FRAMING

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1850s

REDCAR, UNITED KINGDOM Redcar is a town of about 34,000 inhabitants situated on the North East coast of England. Although situated within sight of the numerous industrial complexes along the banks of the River Tees, Redcar itself is not an industrial town. Whilst no longer in the forefront of holiday resorts, Redcar still has much to offer the day visitor with well developed railway and train station in the center.

The incredible wildlife of the are strethes from the town’s beach front to the lighthouse located at the end of South Gare Beach where South Gare Fisherman’s Association is located. Fisherman keep their boats at Paddy’s Hole which is a small harbour for fishing boats, from where a large expanse of steelworks can be watched. It used to be one of the biggest UK’s biggest steelmaking plant althought it was closed in 2015, with the loss of 1,700 jobs which has really affected the manufacturing supply chain and slowed down the economy of Redcar.

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1970s

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Natalia Stasik University of Newcastle

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Projection: British National Grid

© Landmark Information Group Ltd and Crown copyright 2020. FOR EDUCATIONAL USE ONLY.

Redcar originated as a fishing town in the 1300s, trading with the larger adjacent market town of Coatham which was one of the most important fishing villages in the area and in 1801 it had a population of 680 people.

Redcar quickly expanded and soon absorbed Coatham. A further extension of the railway to Saltburn in 1861 stimulated the population growth there and although the building of Saltburn Pier in 1868 was a major attraction, day-trippers continued to flock.

Redcar beach, August 1968

Redcar Pier, August 1968

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Industrial growth in the late eighteenth century came in the form of ironworks and later steelwork (1979) and well developed railway system.

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Natalia Stasik University of Newcastle

Sea-front boats, August 1968

PICTURE OF STEELWOKRS TAKEN DURING SITE VISITING 12

FRAMING I REDCAR

REDCAR | FRAMING

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SITE ALLOCATIONS (GROUP WORK) This project is based in Redcar. The site streches from the city center to South Gare located at the mouth of the River Tees. To better understand the area we’ve been allocated to different parts of Redcar to analyse them and take a look at systems which are characteristic for each of them. I have been allocated to site 06 and 03 which are highlighted on the site allocations map.

SITE ALLOCATIONS

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FRAMING I GROUP WORK

GROUP WORK

GROUP WORK | FRAMING

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SYSTEMIC MAPPING The first task in my studio was to map both tangible and intangible systems into my site section (06). To create my 1:2500 base I used topographical data and building hight data. The section includes the old steelworks, Coatham Dunes and South Gare Beach. At the beginning I struggled to fully understand the meaning of ‘systems’, however after exploration and analysis of the site, I easly have managed to map them. The systems which I found the most interesting and which contributed to the further development of my project I left decided to left in colors, the rest is black and white.

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FRAMING I TASK 01

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TASK 01 | FRAMING

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POP UP SYSTEM BEHAVIOR MODEL My Pop up System Behaviour Model represents the Power System which I pointed out on my section and decided to focus on. Wind turbines from Teesside Wind Farm convert the kinetic energy in wind into clean electricity. Before I came up with the final model and the idea how to show it I started to think about the key elements which are needed for this process: a natural force and an object which converts it into energy. I found it very intresting how they both depend on each other and that combined together, create this loop which reminds me of infinity. The loop last as long as they both intereact with each other. If of them seperate, the loop breaks and the Power System doesn’t exist anymore. To represent it on my model I used my hand as a natural force which by intereaction with the model creates ‘‘loop’’ energy, closed system which is constant until I’m a part of this process.

N A T U R W A I L N D F O R C E

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FRAMING I TASK 02

TASK 02 | FRAMING

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SYSTEMS MAPPING After mapping my systems on my 2D section I started to think about them in 3D. I picked up ones which I found the most interesting and I mapped them on my 3D model which I created in Sketch Up. Firstly I focused on the system of nature taking over the post-industrial infrastructure (Teesside Steelworks and railway).

I decided to show it in 3 different periods of time. In the past (1950s), the area was occupied by nature, there was only a railway going through the site.

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FRAMING I TASK 03

TASK 03 | FRAMING

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NATURE

The Steelworks was built and opened in 1979 which is currently closed since 2010. Buildings and railways are not in use any more so the nature started to take them over growing both on the old post-industrial buildings and the railway. If nothing will change with the steelworks in the future, the nature will completly take over the construnstruction. I also observed an interesting system which is called ‘’Reef effect’’ (fish and crustaceans tend to cluster on the structures – which become artificial reefs for marine life over time). The reef effect can be observed on windmills located at the end of my sections.

PRESENT

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FRAMING I TASK 03

TASK 03 | FRAMING

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Power System (Green Technologies) On my 3D model I also mapped Power System/Green Technology System because I believe that it is very important element of my section as well as of the whole area of Redcar. Northumbrian Water supplies 30% of its energy from wind turbines Teesside Wind Farm and it has an impact on a number of factors on different fields. Therefore I desided to base my Casual loop diagram on Green Technology System to understand all interconnections between all factors. I was suppried by the way how all factors intereact with each other creating this network of various connections.

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FRAMING I TASK 04

TASK 04 | FRAMING

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SYSTEM MAPPING After we shuflled around to take on someone elses section I got section number 3 which includes South Gare Beach, Coatham Dunes and Bran Sands. The system I decided to focus was anti-social behaviour which is marine littering. This part of Redcar is the most affected by this system and unfortunatelly it has negative effects on the incredible wildlife which the area has to offer. I started to read more about littering problem and I found few local group that do their bit to help Redcar’s beaches by organising litter pick ups (Friends of Redcar, Keeping It Clean at Saltburn).

Basing on the information about the amout of rubbish they collected in each place I created this dynamic line under my 3D model showing the areas which are the most littered - depend how far is the line, the amout of rubbish is the biggest.

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FRAMING I TASK 05

TASK 05 | FRAMING

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THE ECOLOGICAL THOUGHT The Ecological Thought by Timothy Morton is one of the readings we examined in my studio. As related to the context of the Ghost in The Machine it presents a way to rethink our notions of ’nature’, ’life’, and even ’world’ in a way that allows us to think about them as complex systems and think through them both realistically and fantastically. The essence of the text is to think about everything from impossible way to reach things we cannot literally see. Reading The Ecological Thought allowed me to understand and see sourrounding us systems not only the ones which are tangible but also those which are untangible.

I began to pin up on the cardboard site model the systems which are mostly affected by pollution system caused by marine debris. I distinguished two of them - tourists/residents routes and fishing system. All of them pinned up and connected with different threads’ colors - with each color representing one system, they created a mesh of interconnections. This allowed me to observe their strong dependence. The model pushed my idea forward to design Ocean Plastics Recycling Center to encour-

age a clean and more efficient industry.

Red - Pollution system (marine litter) Blue - Tourists/residents routes White - Fishing system

But what would an ecological society look like? What would an ecological mind think? What kinds of art would an ecologically minded person enjoy?’’

- The Ecological Thought, T. Morton

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FRAMING I STUDIO READINGS

STUDIO READINGS | FRAMING

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PROTAGONIST - PERSPECTIVE - PROJECTION

DEEP END - J. G. Ballard ‘Deep End’ is a short story written by J. G. Ballard we have discussed in the studio. The author in either a near-future or alternate present reality. The Earth lies nearly desolate after extensive overuse of its resources in order to colonise other planets. As a result, the remaining inhabitants that have not emigrated are forced to live on the drained ocean floors whilst the wildlife on the planet is almost completely dead.

Ballard’s story was a fantastic inspiration for my project. The apocaliptic vision of the Earth allowed to understand how easily we can lose everything what sourrounds us. The story shows the truth about human selfishness and the impact on the planet it causes.

After reading ‘‘Deep End’’ I started to explore how could I led a positive change improve the environmental health of Redcar. As the text deelpy relates to the human impact on the planet I examinated the main environmental issues of the seaside town and decided to create an environmental movement within narrative of my work.

I also to show created a poster to show how people currently feel about Redcar in response to the protagonist - perspective projection task.

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PROTAGONIST - PERSPECTIVE - PROJECTION In my Protagonist - Perspective - Projection I was trying to show the consequences of anti-social behaviour which is littering. I also came up with an idea of the short animation showing the ‘dark’ future of Redcar. I decided to show it from two different perspectives - fish stuck in an old fishing and the human walking along the beach. To create the animation I made the SketchUp model. The main idea behind this project was to bring awareness of negative impact of littering on the environment and all living organisms but also to show its negative effects in the future. My next step in this project is to design the Oceac Plastics Recyclign Center for to cope with marine litter and protect both the natural inhabitat and society of Redcar.

FISH STUCK IN A GHOST NET

DOG WITH AN EMPTY BAG OF CHIPS

MARINE DEBRIS

TOURISTS ON THE BEACH

SKETCH UP MODEL

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FRAMING I PROTAGONIST - PERSPECTIVE - PROJECTION

PROTAGONIST - PERSPECTIVE - PROJECTION | FRAMING

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SYSTEM SCALE MAPPING / SITE ANALYSIS Before I came up with my final System Scale Mapping, firstly my aim was to understand which fields are the most affected by marine litter. I distinguished two of them - environment and society, and then I began to look into different subcategories of those particular aspects. At the end I focused on specific areas in Redcar. For my site analysis I focused on the system of littering and all other system which intereact with/are affected by it. On my map I marked each of them with different type of circle to show where they occur and how (by overleaping with each other) they connect. From my research I found out that the most affected by marine litter are fisherman from South Gare Fisherman’s Association, kite surfers (as this area is popular for kite surfing) and people walking on the beach (tourists, residents).

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FRAMING I SYSTEM MAPPING

SYSTEM MAPPING | FRAMING

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MARINE LITTER DATA

Plastic/Polysteryne 143.0 /100m

Cigarette stubs 42.6 /100m

SITE VISIT

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Glass 33.4 /100m

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Packets 30.9 /100m

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Fishing net 21.3 /100m

I began to collect data about marine litter to find out what types of waste are the most common to be found on the beach, sea and ocean.

My main aim was to understand the scale of the problem and the kind of rubbish I should focus on in my project. During my site visit I was walking along the main beach in Redcar and on my way I found a lot of different plastics including ghost nets, plastic bottles and plastic cups. It was a crucial moment of my project development because It made me realized importance of protecting the natural environment from litter pollutions. I decided to devote my project to this issue creating a sheme which focuses on recycling plastics from the sea.

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* Pictures taken by me on Redcar’s beach during site visiting

*Data based on Great British Beach Clean 2019 Report by Marine Conservation Society

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FRAMING I MARINE LITTER

MARINE LITTER | FRAMING

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CIRCULAR ECONOMY In the next step of my project I began to explore different ways to lead political, cultural and social change for healthy seas and coasts. All of this in order to support marine wildlife, sustainable livelihoods and enjoyment for all within the scheme of my building.

My main idea was to create a circular economy which will allow give an end to marine waste and pollutions at the same time positively affecting economy, climate change and tourism in Redcar.

* Surfers Against Sewage - marine conservation charity

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FRAMING I CIRCULAR ECONOMY

CIRCULAR ECONOMY| FRAMING

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FISHING FOR LITTER (System Scale Mapping) In order to create circular economy in Redcar I would like to reduce the amount of marine litter in the North Sea by physically removing it at the same time highlighting the importance of good waste management in Redcar. In my project I would like to involve local key stakeholders, the fishingindustry and local fisherman of North East England to catch plastic as well as fish for financial support. Fishing boats would be given large bags to collect the plastics, ghost gear and other debris that gathers in their nets during normal fishing activities. The transport boat from Recycle Processing Centre would collect the litter from fisherman’s associations along the North East coast and take it to the recycling centre where later fishing nets are recycled while the rest of litter is transported to other waste managements.

Ocean Plastics Recycling Center

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3.2 FRAMING| FISHING FOR LITTER

8/10 HARBOURS = 100 fishing boats + small fishing boats = 8 TONNES OF MARINE PER MONTH FISHING FOR LITTER | 3.2 FRAMING

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PROCESS MAPPING To map the process of recycling plastics I began with the research to carefully understand what machines are needed to succesfully recycle fishing net into recycled nylon. As the marine litter is transported by boat I decided to sit my my building on the beach for easy access to the sea and dock where the transport boat could moor. After the litter is unloaded from the boat, fishing nets and lobster pots has to be sorted into the ones which are valuable and the one which are not good for recyling process. Next steps of the proccess is crushing fishing nets and melting them what made me realized that also good ventilation system is needed in my building for gas emission with arose from the recycling. Melted netting turnes into nylon pellets which are packed, dictributed and sold. I also want my centre to allow tourists to experience the process of the recycling.

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FRAMING I PROCESS MAPPING

PROCESS MAPPING | FRAMING

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USER INTERFACE / MOMENT DESIGN

USER INTERFACE / MOMENT DESIGN

For the final challenge of Framing I decided to explore the moment of the design where the visitor meets the process of recycling and intereacts with it. I designed a space which will allows to see the proccess of recycling first hand at the same time keeping the visitos close to natural environment and marine life with a big ‘screen’ windows.

To enhance user centric design in the scheme of my project I want to enable visitors to connect with the system of marine litter.

The main purpose of it is to promote environmental awarness in the hopes that people will question where their waste goes, its values and how it could be reused by getting a new purpose.

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FRAMING I USER EXPERIENCE

USER EXPERIENCE | FRAMING

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CASE STUDY

FRAC DUNKERQUE, FRANCE

This chapter highlights my explorations of the FRAC building designed by Lacaton and Vassal. I was studying a relation of the building with the Architect’s theoretical position in order to understand how the scheme explores their ideas and preocupations.

The analysis of the case study and architects’ approach was very inspiring in order to think about the sustainable design and it’s adaptability to different users’ needs. Looking back I believe that the FRAC informed my thinking about freedom of space to enhance user experience and to make the building fully functional. Furthermore, the case study played a crucial role in a choice of the materials in my building as it made me understand me that even simple, economical and efficient materials can form incredible architecture with an unusual character.

ARCHITECT’S THEORETICAL POSITION Lacaton and Vassal met as students during the late 1970s, and though their career they have advanced a set of ideas, a theory of architecture not divorced from use and inhabitation, from life.

How does the case study relate to the Architect’s theoretical position and how does it explore their ideas/preocupations?

The timeline shows some of the architects’ buildings which I thought to be the most essential as examples of their architectural approach. I draw a line following the timeline to mark the scale of each project depend on its purpose and importance in their career.

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Importance and value of existing

A bioclimatic concept

“Never demolish, never remove or replace, always add, transform, and reuse!”

‘‘Circulation between indoor and outdoor is more important than insulation’’

Lacton and Vassal has incredible architectual approach to the importance and value of the existing buildings, as they believe that place has beauties if we are attentive enough to see them. Throughout their creation they prove that every restriction can be positively turned around by reusing, transforming and reinventing what already exists. Each project requires focusing on accuracy, amiability and attention: to people, to uses, to structures and everything that already exists which allows appreciation of the values which already there. In the architects’ oppinion this is the great opportunity for the sustainable development of the cities.

Therefore, they believed that Halle AP2’s interior needed to be saved because it still had potential. Filling the building wasn’t just senseless, but as Lacaton and Vassal argued: it was unnecessary. So they decided to propose that new structure, ‘‘twin building’’, of the same volume and shape be erected beside the AP2, one specifically designed to the house the required galleries, cinema, offices, educational spaces, and art storage.

VIEW FROM THE PORT AREA

TOP FLOOR OF THE FRAC

Futhermore, the Halle AP2 makes the FRAC not simply a museum or an archive, but a fully-functional complex the architects identified as a “unique and symbolical object”. The building is not only a visual magnet in the post-industrial landscape of the port area but a presenvation of its raw and industrial atmosphere of the area.

Lacaton & Vassal by using their economical construction techniques and the winter-garden approach, build upon the climate using the maximum of the natural resources. Natural climatic controls, such as passive cooling, natural ventilation, and solar heat gain, allow architects’ to create bioclimatic spaces which are not only luxurious but also they eliminate most of the costs associated with installation and operation of mechanical systems. They believe that greenhouse technologies are incredible sustainble solutions which are much better than traditional architectural approaches. Rather than learning from other disciplines how living conditions could be better designed, building regulations force architects to surround themselves with thick walls, small windows, and a maximum amount of insulation (whose greatest beneficiary is clearly the industry supplying the insulation material).

Extra space, freedome of use THE HALLE AP2 ‘FREEDOM OF USE’ Lacton and Vassal’s aim to design an archi­ tecture that is not standardized but creative, that challenges conventional answers to free the uses of buildings from artificial constraints. They believe that architecture is the freedom to use a space, to innovate a space, to get beyond mere functionality and provide a kind of liberty in the spaces we create that allows many types of functionality.

The halle AP2 therefore is completely available space to be ‘‘free in use’’ for creativit, which can work either with the FRAC, in extension of its activities, (exceptional temporary exhibitions, creation of large scale works, particular handlings) or independently to welcome public events (concert, fairs, shows, circus, sport, art exhibitions) and which allows work at several scales of regional but also european and international resonance, which consolidates the redevelopment of the port of Dunkerque.

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PROJECT TESTING

All the explored themes and narratives in Primer allowed me to develop my brief and a question that my design was going to respond in the Testing phase.

Testing has expanded my knowledge about Redcar and required a carefull analysis of the site to better understand the context and other industries based along the River Tees. This part of the project allowed me to explore my project aims in the design and its programme focusing on the process of recycling and user experience.

My design process began from simple diagrams exploring particular spaces needed in my building’s programme. Understanding the size and shape of them allowed me to explore the shape ale scale of my building. That required consideration of understanding the movement in my building to achieve a complete scheme which integrated visitors with process of recycling.

LINE OF INQUIRY The scheme of my project propose an alternative system for collection and recycling of waste from the ocean. The aim is to reveal that system into the public in an engaging way which promotes understanding and education.

HEALTHY SEAS AND OCEANS

CIRCULAR ECONOMY - RECYCLING

SUSTAINABLE APPROACH Environment-friendly industry ENGAGING DIFFERENT COMMUNITIES

USER EXPERIENCE

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TESTING | LINE OF INQUIRY

IMPROVED LOCAL ECONOMY

LINE OF INQUIRY | TESTING

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RIVER TEES INDUSTRY

REDCAR, ENGLAND

To better understand Redcar and wider context of the site, further analysis was needed in order to look at different ports, facilities and services along the River Tees. The analysis shows different industries located on both sides of the river but also green technologies which enhance local economy in Redcar.

The site for my project is located in South Gare - fishing area characterized for its incredible natural inhabitat. As the site sits just next to riverbank it can be accessed both by a vehicle and boat. The only buildings surrounging the site are fisherman huts but there is also a small harbour.

Acces to the site is quite poor at the moment as there is only one road leading to the city center, however following the Redcar and Cleveland Council planning strategy, the plan suggests to improve connectivity between South Tees and the strategic road network.

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ROAD ACCESS

RAILWAY

INDUSTRIAL PORTS GREEN TECHNOLOGIES

RECYCLING FACILITIES

FISHERMAN

COASTAL LINE

SITE ANALYSIS | TESTING

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SITE: SOUTH GARE

SITE ANALYSIS

The chosen site for my project is located in South Gare just next to the River Tees. The area is well known from fishing activities and the only existing buildings around are fisherman huts. The site is characteristic for it’s incredible natural inhabitat which makes it very peaceful. Futhermore, the are beautiful views on the River Tees and all industries located along the riverbank including old steelworks.

site analysis

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TESTING | SITE INFORMATION

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RIVER TEES TIDE ANALYSIS

SITE MATERIALITY The character of the site and its materiality inspired the choice of materials for the scheme of my building. Most of the fisherman huts located on the site are build from wood and reused materials like metal sheets or plywood.

SOUTH GARE FISHERMAN ASSOCIATION

PADDY’S HOLE (SMALL HARBOUR)

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TESTING | SITE ANALYSIS

SITE MATERIALITY | TESTING

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DESIGNING METHOD The designing process of my scheme began from exploration of different spaces needed for the building’s programme. In the Framing I was exploring system of recycling and user experience which led me to idea to create recycling plant with an education program. I looked at the Sunset Material Recovery Facility by Selldorf Architects which turned out to has a similar scheme to the one I was going to adapt to my design.

Analysis of the precedence was very inspiring and allowed me to understand the number and scale of the spaces I need for further development of the project.

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TESTING | DESIGN PROCESS

PRECEDENCE

SUNSET MATERIAL RECOVERY FACILITY BY SELLDORF ARCHITECTS

DESIGN PROCESS | TESTING

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SHAPE EXPLORATIONS Understanding the programme of my building allowed me for the next step in my design process to explore its shape. I decided to create a topography model using different types of litter - each of them responding to the size of a particular space. I was exploring different programme arrangements, however non of them respond to the site analysis and the supath. In the further development of the project that would cause a need for a lot of artificial lighting affecting sustainable approach of my design.

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TESTING | SHAPE EXPLORATIONS

SHAPE EXPLORATIONS | TESTING

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PROGRAMME EXPLORATIONS I made the decision to change the location of my building and place it on the other side of the small harbour. All of this in order to allow for more light to illuminate the interior but also to shelter the main outside patio from the wind.

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TESTING | DESIGN PROCESS

MASTERPLAN In further development of my design I created a masterplan showing the main charasterictis of the programme, buildings’ shape and it’s response to the site and context. Inspired by Sunset Material Recovery Facility I decided to integrate the unloading dock into my design to allow for easy acces for boats transporting marine litter to the facility and functional process of recycling.

DESIGN PROCESS | TESTING

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SHAPE EXPLORATIONS

SHAPE ANALYSIS

Shape exploration was one of the most challenging elements in my designing process. I found it very difficult to found the right shape in order respond to the site at the same time allowing for functionallity of the building. After a long process of explorations I finally found a perfect a shape which both responds to the context and sheme of the project enhancing architectural expression and visitors’s experience.

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TESTING | DESIGN PROCESS

DESIGN PROCESS | TESTING

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EARLY SKETCH UP MODEL

TIMBER-LATTICED FACADE

In the next step of the designig process I created a massing SketchUp model. It allowed me to better understand the relation of my building with the site. This was a crucial moment to began exploration of design characteristics.

The main facade of the recycling center is facing South, therefore to protect the interior of the building from overheating I decided to find a way to reduce the amout of sun coming inside. Inspired by the Bedales School of Art and Design and its beautiful crossedoak-facade I decided to create a timber-latticed facade which became one of the main characteristics of my design.

BEADALES SCHOOL OF ART AND DESIGN BY FEILDEN CLEGG BRADLEY

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TESTING | DESIGN PROCESS

FACADE EXPLORATION | TESTING

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TIMBER-LATTICED FACADE In order to find a grid for the design of the facade I began to analyse different shapes and sizes of them including the one applied in the the Beadales School of Art and Design.

Furthermore, the shadows analysis was also very important element during my explorations as the shape of the facade will appear in the interior of the building creating beatiful play of lights and shadows enhancing the user experience and design aesthetic.

BEADALES SCHOOL OF ART AND DESIGN GRID GRID EXPLORATION

SHADOW EXPLORATION GRID CHOSEN FOR MY DESIGN

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TESTING | FACADE EXPLORATION

FACADE EXPLORATION | TESTING

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THINKING THROUGH MAKING

Thinking Mhrough Making was important part of my designing process which pushed my project towards sustainability. Exploration of reduce, reuse and recycle approach and different ways to promote waste reduction allowed me to enhance a user experience and the quality of the final design.

REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE In the first part of Thinking Through Making I focused on exploring different ways of reusing materials. As levels of pollutant emissions have increased over the years I believe that the action to use material more than once, processed or not could reduce the damage that build industry causes to the planet. Even though I decided to not use any of those examples, analysing them allowed me to better understand unusual architectural opportunietes they give and inspired me for further explorations.

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TESTING | THINKING THROUGH MAKING

THINKING THROUGH MAKING | TESTING

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‘PLASTIC’ FACADE Therefore, as a part of user experience which is part of the theme in my studio (Ghost in the Machine) I decided to create a ‘plastic’ facade on the East elevation of the Education Center. The main aim of creating the facade was to explore new possibilities of the use of plastic waste as a build- ing material but also to use it as an educational tool. The overwhelming number of plastics used in the facade is meant to highlight the scale of the issue of marine litter pollution, in the hopes that people visiting the Recycle Processing Center will question where their waste goes, and how it could be reused by getting a new purpose.

Figure 1 - Plastics

* ‘PLASTIC’ FACADE IS A PART OF MY INTEGRATED CONSTRUCTION REPORT

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TESTING | THINKING THROUGH MAKING

THINKING THROUGH MAKING | TESTING

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‘PLASTIC’ FACADE GRID

Wooden tim- ber box filled with plastics (marine litter)

Some of the box- es were left empty to become window frames for double glazed windows

Some of the boxes were connected with each other in order to become a public space for peo- ple to sit and rest. The plastics were replaced with timber bench.

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TESTING | THINKING THROUGH MAKING

THINKING THROUGH MAKING | TESTING

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PROJECT SYNTHESIS

In the final phase of the project I continued development of the themes and interests explored during the Primer and Testing journey. This has enabled me to connect all my narratives into the final design creating fully functional scheme that integrates recycling process and ecudation program for visitors.

Through Syntezis I fully understood the technical part of my design which enabled me to focus on the user experience and the journey of visitors around the recycling plant. I also turned my attention into exploration of different ways of respresenting my sheme. This part was crucial in order to show the atmosphere of my project and the character of Redcar.

VISUAL BRIEF

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VISUAL BRIEF | SYNTHESIS

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SITE AERIAL VIEW

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SYNTHESIS | BUILDING IN CONTEXT

BUILDING’S PROGRAMME

BUILDING’S PROGRAMME | SYNTHESIS

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SITE SECTION The site section shows the integrity of the building’s scheme with the shape of the land. I found it very challenging to create fully functional design which responds to the different levels of the ground. Through the process of development and explorations I have manage to find a way to enable for functionallity and architectural expression of the project.

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SYNTHESIS | SITE SECTION

SITE SECTION | SYNTHESIS

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SYNTHESIS | PLANS

PLANS | SYNTHESIS

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SOUTH ELEVATION

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SYNTHESIS | ELEVATIONS

EAST ELEVATION

ELEVATIONS | SYNTHESIS

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NORTH ELEVATION

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SYNTHESIS | ELEVATIONS

WEST ELEVATION

ELEVATIONS | SYNTHESIS

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RECYCLING CENTER The section shows the process of recycling from the moment of unloading marine litter to the end of it, where recycled plastics are taken away in trucks to be distributed around England. The whole scheme was designed to enable visitors to see the recycling process first hand and to make it possible for them to follow every step of the process which is a part of education program.

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SYNTHESIS | RECYCLING CENTER SECTION

RECYCLING CENTER SECTION | SYNTHESIS

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THE JOURNEY OF THE USERS The arrangement of the building is planned to ensure that both visitors of the recycling plantand local fisherman can meet on their journeys. The main idea was to bring together different communities, creating connections between fisherman, tourists and residents of Redcar. Furthermore, my aim was to enable visitors to see the process of recycling first hand and understand the journey of marine litter throuh this process.

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

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SYNTHESIS | JOURNEY

JOURNEY | SYNTHESIS

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USER EXPERIENCE - STORY OF A PLASTIC BAG In order to show the user experience in the scheme of my project I created a short illustrated story showing the journey around the recycling plant from the perspective of a visitor. The story enables to understand close connectness of the visitor with the system of marine pollutions and recycling which is enhanced throught design and programme of the building. The overwhelming number of plastics which visitors have to see while visiting recycling center is meant to highlight the scale of the issue of marine litter pollution, in the hopes that people visiting the recycling plant will question where their waste goes and its value. My illustrated story was inspired by Plastic Bag Trailer by Futurestates and narrated by Werner Herzog who created a short video from the perspective of the plastic bag which questions human values and behaviours.

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SYNTHESIS | JOURNEY

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JOURNEY | SYNTHESIS

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EDUCATION CENTER

The programme of the education center includes exhibitions representing work of various environmentalists, classroms, lecture theatre, shop, cafe and restaurant but also the viewing platform inside the recycling center. My design methodology is focused on user experience, with the intention being to enhance connection between the user and the growing problem of marine pollutions. This method of engagement will in turn promote understanding and education.

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SYNTHESIS | SECTION EDUCATION CENTER

SECTION EDUCATION CENTER | SYNTHESIS

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SYNTHESIS | INTERIOR

INTERIOR | SYNTHESIS

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SECTION THROUGH EDUCATION CENTER The elevation shows the section through education center.

The interior is characterized by exposed glued laminated timber structure and pitched roof. On the roof there is solar panels system and each floor has glazed windows which allow for natural light to illuminate the interior of the building. The latticed-timber frame facade stretches from the first to the second floor providing a shading inside. The building responds to the local context with its shape and material strategy enhancing the sustainable design approach.

1:20 DETAILED ELEVATION

1:20 DETAILED SECTION

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SYNTHESIS | DETAIL ELEVATION 1:20

DETAIL SECTION 1:20 | SYNTHESIS

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OUTSIDE PATIO

‘PLASTIC’ FACADE

The scheme of my building includes outside patio which is a completely avaliable space to be ‘free in use’ for creativity and different activities and public events. It was designed in order to became a new place for the Festival of Thrift which take place in Redcar every year. The festival is devoted to climate crisis positoning artists as inspirers to action and encouraging change through workshops, exhibitions and performances.

Final output of the ‘plastic’ facade designed and explored during Thinking Through Making.

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SYNTHESIS | OUTSIDE PATIO

FACADE | SYNTHESIS

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OUTSIDE WALKWAY The design of the building was carefully throughout to use the site’s potential to its fullest. The latticed-timber facade and outside walkway enable visitors to feel the amosphere and enjoy views of unusual lanscpe of Redcar which integrates fishing and industrial worlds. The old steelworks in the background sourrounded by wildlife inhabitat gives a poetic post-industrial character of the place and enhance user experience to integrate with the nature.

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SYNTHESIS | FACADE

FACADE | SYNTHESIS

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CULTURAL BIBLIOGRAPHY

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LEEDS MAGGIES CENTRE (CASE STUDY) Leeds Maggies Centre designed by Heatherwick Studios was very inspiring with its design and natural and light tones. Exposed CLT structure which creates a sense of fluidity and elegance has influenced my material choices during development of my project.

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CULTURAL BIBLIOGRAPHY

RCA PAITING SCHOOL (CASE STUDY) RCA Paiting School fascinated me with its form and architectural expression. The building’s roof with north-facing roof lights and the metal profile enable to capture light in a uniform way. During my process development I was exploring that particular shape of roof, however the shape of my building has changed within the developmentof the scheme and my final design is significantly different.

CULTURAL BIBLIOGRAPHY

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REFERENCES Morton, T., 2012. The ecological thought. Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press.

BIBLIOGRAPHY O’Hara, Carl, “Gallery: Redcar Pier - Remember When”, Teessidelive, 2020 <https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/gallery/gallery-redcar-pier-remember-when-8606784> [Accessed 16 December 2020]

Ballard, J., 2014. The complete short stories. London: Fourth Estate.

Vimeo. 2021. Plastic Bag Trailer (By Futurestates and narrated by Werner Herzog). [online] Available at: <https://vimeo. com/11322268> [Accessed 2 June 2021].

Festivalofthrift.co.uk. 2021. Festival of Thrift – Come & Celebrate Sustainable Living. [online] Available at: <https://www.festivalofthrift.co.uk> [Accessed 2 June 2021].

Snohetta.com. 2021. Knowledge Center for Plastic and Marine Littering in Oslo. [online] Available at: <https://snohetta.com/projects/547-knowledge-center-for-plastic-and-marine-littering-in-oslo#> [Accessed 2 June 2021].

Coalition, P. and Coalition, P., 2021. NEW: National Geographic Launches Planet or Plastic?, a Multiyear Initiative to Reduce Single-Use Plastics — Plastic Pollution Coalition. [online] Plastic Pollution Coalition. Available at: <https://www.plasticpollutioncoalition. org/blog/2018/5/16/national-geographic-launches-planet-or-plastic-a-multiyear-initiative-to-reduce-single-use-plastics> [Accessed 2 June 2021].

Fishingforlitter.org.uk. 2021. Fishing For Litter. [online] Available at: <http://www.fishingforlitter.org.uk> [Accessed 2 June 2021].

4ocean. 2021. The 4ocean Bracelet - Every purchase pulls a pound of plastic from our. [online] Available at: <https://www.

4ocean.com> [Accessed 2 June 2021].

LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 - https://www.istockphoto.com/vector/plastic-object-gm1055631914-282078754

“Ridkere - Memories Of Redcar - Fishermen And Boats, 1968”, Ridkere.Co.Uk, 2020 <http://www.ridkere.co.uk/fishermen1968. php> [Accessed 16 December 2020] Src.Lafargeholcim-Foundation.Org, 2020 <https://src.lafargeholcim-foundation.org/dnl/9f6b15d0-7219-4d2c-bb67-ca9661c8aa51/Nantes.pdf> [Accessed 7 December 2020] “Nantes School Of Architecture / Lacaton & Vassal”, Archdaily, 2020 <https://www.archdaily.com/254193/nantes-school-of-architecture-lacaton-vassal> [Accessed 10 December 2020] “23 Semi-Collective Housing Units / Lacaton & Vassal”, Archdaily, 2020 <https://www.archdaily.com/254147/23-semi-collective-housing-units-lacaton-vassal> [Accessed 16 December 2020] “Polyvalent Theater / Lacaton & Vassal”, Archdaily, 2020 <https://www.archdaily.com/475683/polyvalent-theater-lacaton-and-vassal> [Accessed 16 December 2020] Lacatonvassal.Com, 2020 <https://www.lacatonvassal.com/data/documents/20161213-1537481505%20Art%20Forum.pdf> [Accessed 12 December 2020] “Lacaton & Vassal Have A Strategy To Save France’s Social Housing - Metropolis”, Metropolis, 2020 <https://www.metropolismag.com/architecture/preservation/lacaton-vassal-pioneered-strategy-saving-france-social-housing/> [Accessed 10 December 2020] “Anne Lacaton, Lacaton & Vassal: “It Is Important To Make Buildings In Which Users Find Freedom””, ICON Magazine, 2020 <https://www.iconeye.com/architecture/features/anne-lacaton-it-is-important-to-make-buildings-in-which-users-find-freedom> [Accessed 16 December 2020] ArchDaily. 2021. Sunset Park Material Recovery Facility / Selldorf Architects. [online] Available at: <https://www.archdaily. com/509387/sunset-park-material-recovery-facility-selldorf-architects> [Accessed 2 June 2021].

ArchDaily. 2021. Bedales School Art and Design / Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios. [online] Available at: <https://www.archdaily. com/877262/bedales-school-of-art-and-design-feilden-clegg-bradley-studios> [Accessed 2 June 2021].

Festivalofthrift.co.uk. 2021. Festival of Thrift – Come & Celebrate Sustainable Living. [online] Available at: <https://www.festivalofthrift.co.uk> [Accessed 2 June 2021].

ArchDaily. 2021. Maggie’s Leeds Centre / Heatherwick Studio. [online] Available at: <https://www.archdaily.com/941540/maggies-leeds-centre-heatherwick-studio> [Accessed 2 June 2021].

Coalition, P. and Coalition, P., 2021. NEW: National Geographic Launches Planet or Plastic?, a Multiyear Initiative to Reduce Single-Use Plastics — Plastic Pollution Coalition. [online] Plastic Pollution Coalition. Available at: <https://www.plasticpollutioncoalition. org/blog/2018/5/16/national-geographic-launches-planet-or-plastic-a-multiyear-initiative-to-reduce-single-use-plastics> [Accessed 2 June 2021].

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APPRENDIX: CASE STUDY BOOKLET

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APPRENDIXl: THINKING THROUGH MAKING

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