Z1P6Bio

Isabel Vile ‘...as we choose what we preserve, we write our own histories. We select particular versions, moments in time, that will shape how we move forward.’ - Jorge Otero-Palios Within Building Upon Building we have been tasked to create a new building that will host the centre national du patrimoine et de la preservation (National Centre of Heritage and Preservation of France), a design that should respond to both the building typology of Notre Dame Cathedral as well as Viollet-le-Duc’s work. To be able to host the Heritage Centre, it must include spaces such as offices, a lab, a public auditorium for public lectures, a hall for temporary exhibitions, a library, a research centre, and a cafeteria.

Focusing on themes of Old and New, the programme integrates memorabilia and education into the functions, with the flow through mirroring the relationship between the past and present.

Celebrated through symbolism within the processions between functions and spaces these ideas are represented through inspire, explore, and discover. As one subject feeds into another it seamlessly explores the possibilities of Old and New, memorabilia and education; how the past informs the present.

The design should also cover ideas relating to experimental preservation; ‘as we chose what we preserve, we write our own histories. We select particular versions, moments in time, that will shape how we move forward’. It is about looking to the future rather than the past, as ‘we will probably be judged not by the monuments we build but by those we have destroyed’. So how can my design proposal shape a better future?

To shape a better future for Île de la Cité, I must consider how I can influence the site’s fabric to create a hub of creativity which encourages this ‘no man’s land of tourists’ to return to the Parisians.

Therefore, focusing on how one can manipulate a site through a new-build project to enhance civilisation. Through integration of both landscaping and people, it will not only ecologically benefit the site, but create a place that highlights a developed civilisation. A quasi-object that portrays a ‘united nation’.

Then by integrating education into the site it will stimulate a hub of creativity, flowing with inspiration; a place which will cause civilisation to flourish. Where many will learn and reflect on heritage and the surrounding environment. As through reflection within a design that also enhances the ecosystem of the site and to respond to the current climate crisis encourages awareness toward protecting planet.

Ultimately, the integration of civilisation, landscape, and education, will provide us with capability to shape our histories, and create a better future.

Contact : izzie.vile@gmail.com