Urban Design Report - Writer's Retreat

Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

The Writer’s Retreat

Neil Taylor

Nicola Toomey

Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

The Writer’s Retreat

Neil Taylor

Nicola Toomey

Location

10

Preparation

11

Sense of Place

12-13

Conceptual Idea & Masterplan (Neil)

14-15

Conceptual Idea & Masterplan (Nicola)

16-17

Awards Ceremony

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Contents

Chapter 2: Masterplan

90

Design Statement

91

Focused Plan

92-99

Key Site Montages

100

Focused Plan Appraisal

101

Focused Plan in Context

102-107

CDP Proposal

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

09

Proposed Area

Chapter / Page: 0.05

Project Objectives

88-89

Chapter 4: Individual Masterplan (Nicola Toomey) 110

Development: Main Public Square

20-21

Design Manifesto

111

Focused Plan

22-23

Typology

112

Linear Journey

24-25

Focused Location Plan

113

Key Section

26-27

Urban Acupuncture

114-115

Key Approach

28-41

Urban Acupuncture Images aP1-7

116-117

Key Threshold

42-43

Masterplan

118-119

Public Square Overview

44-59

Sections AA-DD

120-121

Key View

60-61

Zoning

122-123

Focused Plan in Context

62-73

Design Agenda: Micro Studies

74-75

Masterplan Overview

Chapter 5: Final Proposal

76-77

Sustainable Design Approach

126-127

78-79

Phasing

80-81

Value & Costing

82-85

Funding

Page Title: Contents

08

Chapter 3: Individual Masterplan (Neil Taylor)

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Chapter 1: Introduction

Contents

Final Masterplan Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Chapter / Page: 0.04

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Contents

Chapter 1

Introduction

Neuberg AUSTRIA// Erasmus Program Ancient monastery meets modern architecture An unexpected opportunity.

Leaving behind the over familiar surroundings of Liverpool we journeyed across Europe to the remote mountain village of Neuberg an der Mürz in Austria.

Location

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Project Objectives

Students from four other European Universities met us there. A collection of English, Swedish, German, Austrian and Dutch creative minds brought together for a singular purpose.

We were required to produce an urban strategy, with specific focus on the reuse and redesign of the disused Monastery and its surrounding landscape that would act as a catalyst for the regeneration of Neuberg, boosting its economy and securing its future as a town.

After studying the town, working in groups of mixed nationalities, over our time spent in Neuberg we explored, developed and produced a variety of redevelopment proposals.

At the end of the workshop each group presented their findings and proposals to a jury of international experts. Afterwards a prize giving ceremony took place, where the winning designs of the competition were announced.

On return to Liverpool we then developed the design proposals created whilst in Austria further with the objective of developing and refining our urban designs for Neuberg.

Chapter / Page: 1.09

This a design competition funded by the European Union as an Erasmus IP Program to aid in the regeneration of this place.

Page Title: Location

A Monastery, the focal point, empty.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Project Objectives

Chapter / Page: 1.08

Neuberg, a shrinking village.

The final masterplans will ultimately then be used as the location for our individual comprehensive design projects.

A collection of proposals to inspire the future and prosperity of the ever-beautiful Neuberg.

A unique experience.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

A continuation of the work that began in Austria.

After receiving the project brief and then conducting some preliminary research, we discovered that information on the remote site of Neuberg was limited.

Not only at the heart of the project, but the village of Neuberg itself is the disused Monastery.

In order to fully prepare ourselves for the journey we were about to embark on, as a group we explored a series of interesting routes associated with the project to gain a deeper understanding and perspective.

Neuberg Abbey holds both great historical significance and architectural merit. The Abbey was founded in 1327 by Duke Otto the Merry. Construction work began in 1330 and was completed in 1496. A former Cistercian Monastery, it is one of the few extant set of monastic buildings to have retained its medieval character to any great extent.

Before departing for Austria we collated our research and created a booklet that consists of a catalogue of our individual areas of research that will hopefully help us to understand the site, surrounding area and associated themes of study, consequently aiding us in the conceptual formation stages of our design and beyond.

Appendix 1.

Although the Monastery site is quite a dominant physical feature within the fabric of the town it does not overpower the village, yet adds to its unique character, identity and sense of place.

Page Title: Sense of Place

Neuberg Abbey// Neuberg an der Mürz, Styria, Austria.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Twelve students from our University were chosen to embark on this unique journey.

Neuberg is a small village sat within a valley, surrounded by mountains that reach to high peaks. In comparison the Monastery does not seem so big, the village, even smaller, both naturally enclosed by a greater form.

The surrounding landscape is beautiful and inspiring. The village has a unique quality about its physical make-up and way of life lived here by the local people. The Monastery the heart of Neuberg.

It is this unique sense of place that must be retained. The quality of village life and natural beauty of its surroundings enhanced, not overpowered. The urban regeneration of Neuberg approached with sensitivity. Our urban strategy- the making of a place that is right for Neuberg and for the close community of people that live there.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Preparation

Chapter / Page: 1.10

Chapter / Page: 1.11

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Sense of Place

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Preparation

*Appendix 2

Author(s): Neil Taylor Chapter / Page: 1.13

The Literaturzentrum in Neuberg is a place where authors can retreat to allowing interaction with other like minded individuals and the existing population. The varying levels of privacy allow writers to select a suitable social environment which will enhance the creative process. At times a visiting author can find solitude in one of the secluded writing cabins or private writing suites and if the author wishes to be a little more extrovert there is a theatre or an outdoor stage for public readings. The authors are encouraged to offer guidance to the public and promote creative writing of all varieties, lectures can be held in one of the conference suites which are serviced by the adjacent cafes and restaurants.

The existing courtyards will become a hive of activity each dedicated to the public offering a range activities. The courtyard which opens onto the improved public landscape gives visitors a chance to enjoy local culture and food types, when walking through the main entrance you are able to the various elements which inhabit the existing monastery and in the courtyard at the rear you can learn about the book manufacturing process. The Literaturzentrum is an autonomous project based around the production of books from start to finish. The creative process is represented by the author’s retreats, the production of books is all produced on site via the printing press and finally the study or reading aspect is shown through the interaction of the authors with the public. In order to create a new identity or brand for Neuberg it is essential that a product is produced that represents the beauty and uniqueness of the area. The books produced on site are constructed from handmade paper and inks and two copies of every book produced here are stored in the library.

People will visit in a similar way they visit an art gallery, they will come to see a piece of history.

Page Title: Conceptual Masterplan

A place for contemplation and inspiration within a newly developed rural landscape. The introduction of a unique writing hub allows scholars and the public to interact giving visitors the opportunity to fully understand the writing process from concept to product.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Conceptual idea

Conceptual Masterplan (Neil)

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Conceptual Idea

Chapter / Page: 1.12

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Conceptual Idea (Neil)

The initial target zones of the monastery aim to bring the public out to new and unknown observation points. It is here that people can view and experience the beauty of the monastery in a new and unique way. The point and intervention both act as a framing device for the beauty of the monastery and the surrounding nature as the backdrop for this dramatic scene. A celebration of the beauty and uniqueness of Neuberg.

Other targeted pockets included injections in key important areas. For example, by the riverside, a key anchor point of the village infrastructure. An unused area of land situated between the town hall and local chapel of Neuberg, a key opportunity to create a public square linking these two very important places.

The key in this approach to urban regeneration is avoiding disrupting the existing context and therefore urban acupuncture seeks to utilize void spaces within the urban fabric.

These void spaces then become a positive offering to the community, a sensitive gesture in place making, small insertions into the surrounding environment that transform the once unused space.

To reinforce our idea we examined the Liverpool Biennial as a supporting case study.

Urban acupuncture takes unused pockets of potential and injects them with life and purpose. Interventions within these pockets can include the introduction of art installations, inhabitable pavilions, private retreats, urban furniture or simply the opportunity for an enhanced connection with nature, creating a network of interconnected activities that celebrate space and create a place.

As a series of these pockets have been identified within Neuberg, when regenerated they help stitch the village together creating a physical relationship and connection between spaces. Sensitively yet interestingly regenerating the urban realm in its entirety.

*Appendix 3

Author(s): Nicola Toomey Chapter / Page: 1.15

The points of acupuncture identified within Neuberg begin at the primary focused location of in and directly around the monastery site, growing to a wider zone of ambition that radiates throughout the whole village.

Page Title: Conceptual Masterplan

Urban acupuncture is based upon the identification of ‘pressure points’ within the existing urban fabric. These pressure points are in essence pockets of unused land that have great potential for opportunity. If used in some way would these pockets create a positive ripple effect that radiates from this specific point out into the surrounding community.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Urban Acupuncture:

Conceptual Masterplan (Nicola)

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Conceptual Idea

Chapter / Page: 1.14

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Conceptual Idea (Nicola)

Awards Ceremony (Nicola)

Page Title: Awards Ceremony

Chapter / Page: 1.17

* Austrian novelist, poet and playwright, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in literature in 2004. Elfriede Jelinek’s most famous novels include Wonderful, Wonderful Times (1980), The Piano Teacher (1983), and Lust (1989). Due to her themes of dominance and submission she has often been regarded essentially as a feminist writer, although in Jelinek’s work women’s subordination basically illuminate the relations of power, control, and manipulation in class societies.

For our urban design strategy based upon the theory of urban acupuncture the group were awarded a special prize in the design competition. It was the notion that our regeneration manifesto was based upon the village of Neuberg in its entirety, improving Neuberg as a whole place, not just a singular specific point within the towns existing fabric. It was for this spirit and design attitude that lead the judges to create the special prize to award to our group.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The Literaturzentrum came third place due to its unusual approach to the redesign and reuse of the Neuberg monastery, the contributing factors being the inventive reuse strategy and the playful landscaping proposal. Obtaining a clear understanding of the site and the surrounding area benefitted the final design and brief. Incorporating a writer’s retreat influenced by a local Nobel literature prize winner (Elfriede Jelinek*) gave the project substance and a unique identity.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Awards Ceremony

Chapter / Page: 1.16

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Awards Ceremony (Neil)

Chapter 2

Masterplan

The initial idea was based on the notion of a modern day scriptorium. A scriptorium being the workroom of monk copyists where they would copy, decorate, rebind and conserve books. Copyists were responsible for texts being circulated from one monastery to another allowing them to learn texts and perfect their religious education. The task of copying itself had several phases: the preparation of the manuscript in the form of notebooks once the work was complete, the presentation of pages, the copying itself, revision, correction of errors, decoration, and binding. The book therefore required a variety of competencies, which often made a manuscript a collective effort.

Chapter / Page: 2.21 Page Title: Design Manifesto

Uninhabited areas within Neuberg were identified and will be used as guiding devices, directing people around the site and offering different perspectives. These nodes of urban acupuncture remain one of the key agendas for our improved manifesto. The nodes determine the order for the remainder of the masterplan providing a starting point and acts as a catalyst for the final design. The idea to produce a masterplan dedicated to literature remains along with the idea to provide the local community with a valuable resource.

Within the masterplan there will be an area of the monastery which is used to promote creative writing. Travelling authors are encouraged to champion their profession and pass on their knowledge and skills within a stimulating environment. The surrounding landscape will allow interaction between the public and the resident academics, whilst celebrating the existing monastery. The writer’s retreat is also home to a theatre which can be used to stage theatrical productions and book readings with the adjoining lecture hall used for writing seminars and workshops. Continuing through the existing monastery building there will be restaurants and cafes, the existing glass manufacturer will remain (to promote local industry), a literature museum will be housed in the buildings which create the two main courtyards, also within this part will be a public library with a local book archive and finally the building adjacent to the main transport route will be home to the printing press. Each aspect of the masterplan will be accessible to the public, allowing interaction between the public and all aspects of literature will help promote the subject and encourage both reading and writing. Due to the redevelopment of the existing monastery there was a need to generate an urban design proposal that would help improve the surrounding area and provide adequate public spaces and buildings. At present the monastery suffers from poor access routes and does not provide suitable spaces for visitors to interact.

The introduction of a new landscaping design would improve the access points and give locals and visitors key points of interest. A new transport hub will be constructed across the river in order to accommodate the increased number of visitors. From the transport hub visitors can travel across the footbridge and into the new public square. Here they can access the two new buildings; one which will house a recycling centre, local trade shops and workshops and the other which will house cafes/bars/ restaurants and short stay accommodation facilities. The masterplan thrives on it’s ability to adapt and to offer a year round program to all.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The culmination of our individual Austria experiences and masterplan development brought forth a revised manifesto, incorporating each of our key ideas. As one of our proposals included a strategy for the redevelopment of the whole area and the other focused on improving the existing monastery and the adjacent land, collaborating to produce a more coherent masterplan was a more than feasible option. This interaction of like-minded designers gave rise to a new and improved manifesto.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Chapter / Page: 2.20 Page Title: Design Manifesto Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Design Manifesto

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Design Manifesto

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Typology

District: Mürzzuschlag

Area: 63.98 km2 (24.7 sq mi)

Typology: situated at the base of the Mürz River Mountain Valley.

Chapter / Page: 2.23

State: Styria

Page Title: Typology

Chapter / Page: 2.22

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Typology Typology

Typology map// Neuberg

Population: 1423 inhabitants

Elevation: 730m above sea level

Settled within the arms of a natural enclosure of the Mürz River Mountain Valley the linear town of Neuberg lies, anchored alongside the River Mürz. A singular main road runs through the village, an alpine pass that connects the surrounding mountain villages together. The road runs directly through the Monastery site in the village. The built environment of Neuberg is anchored along and from these two key points; the river and the road.

When studying our proposed intervention within its context it is evident how we have aimed to stitch the new design into the existing fabric delicately working with and upon what infrastructure is already present.

The monastery redevelopment site is the key location and main catalyst for the regeneration of Neuberg within our masterplan proposal.

Chapter / Page: 2.25

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Focused Location Plan

Page Title: Focused Location Plan

Page Title: Focused Location Plan

Chapter / Page: 2.24

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Focused Location Plan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

This site and its redevelopment proposal a sensitive and responsive addition to the urban fabric of Neuberg.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The heart of Neuberg, the essence fortified city present once more. This key public space enclosed not only by the arms of the new architecture, formed by the natural flow of the river, but by nature and the green walls of the valley itself.

Acupuncture Points: radiating out from the writers retreat into the town there is a constant physical connection to the heart of Neuberg and the activities that take place there.

Initial Focus Zone: The monastery site aP1: Monastery viewport 1. aP2: Monastery viewport 2.

An example of urban acupuncture. Here private pavilions and urban furniture allow the public to sit within and engage with the landscape, able to enjoy the revealed view of the monastery and the beauty of the natural scenery that provides the backdrop for this dramatic frame.

Urban Acupuncture

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Urban Acupuncture

An example of urban acupuncture. Here the location acts as another framing device for the monastery. The injection of the canopy within this location aids in enhancing the enjoyment of this space. It allows people to engage more with this space and promotes the use of this public route as it creates interest and activity alongside this functional device. This route not only showcases the monastery and dramatic landscape but aids in the exploration of the village fabric.

Chapter / Page: 2.27

Chapter / Page: 2.26

aP3: Monastery viewport 3.

An example of urban acupuncture. The river has been selected as a pressure point as it is a place of significance for Neuberg. The river is a beautiful powerful and unique feature of Neuberg. A piece of urban acupuncture here provides the opportunity to celebrate this space and create a place. The proposed installations of lighting and urban furniture allow the public to engage with the river. To sit by its side, read, draw, relax and contemplate safely. A space that can be enjoyed both by day and night. aP6: Opportunity for a key public square- location situated directly between the town hall and local chapel. aP7: Disused industrial estate- potential gateway of Neuberg.

As the location plan shows the selected points of urban acupuncture within the existing urban realm of Neuberg create a network of connected spaces. The method of connections vary, some links are visual, others due to the route on which they lie or due to the significance/importance of the location itself.

This network of nodes within the landscape provides the opportunity for public interest and interaction, encouraging the physical exploration of Neuberg. The injection of activity within these selected locations takes the public to points of the village that would otherwise not be explored, purely because there would be no reason to. Each point frames a key part of Neuberg. The journey alone here itself brings a new and unique experience of the monastery and village itself.

Therefore resulting in improved connectivity within the urban fabric through small and sensitive gestures that really aid in place making and celebrate the existing quality of essence of Neuberg.

Page Title: Urban Acupuncture

aP5: Key anchor point- The River.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Wider Zone of Ambition: The village of Neuberg in its entirety.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Urban Acupuncture

aP4: Monastery viewport 4.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: aP1

Page Title: aP1

Chapter / Page: 2.29

Chapter / Page: 2.28

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

aP1 aP1

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: aP2

Page Title: aP2

Chapter / Page: 2.31

Chapter / Page: 2.30

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

aP2 aP2

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: aP3

Page Title: aP3

Chapter / Page: 2.33

Chapter / Page: 2.32

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

aP3 aP3

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: aP4

Page Title: aP4

Chapter / Page: 2.35

Chapter / Page: 2.34

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

aP4 aP4

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Contents

Page Title: aP5

Chapter / Page: 2.37

Chapter / Page: 2.36

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

aP5 aP5

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: aP6

Page Title: aP6

Chapter / Page: 2.39

Chapter / Page: 2.38

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

aP6 aP6

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: aP7

Page Title: aP7

Chapter / Page: 2.41

Chapter / Page: 2.40

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

aP7 aP7

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Masterplan

Page Title: Masterplan

Chapter / Page: 2.43

Chapter / Page: 2.42

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Masterplan Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Section AA

Page Title: Section AA

Chapter / Page: 2.45

Chapter / Page: 2.44

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Section AA Section AA

Travelling to and Through The transport hub will be the first point of arrival for many and is situated across the river. From here visitors can view the Monastery site and are guided towards the main public square via the newly constructed tower. This focal point is a key node and helps people navigate around the site whilst providing a unique vantage point.

From the top floor of the tower you can survey the landscape and view all aspects of the masterplan.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Section AA

Chapter / Page: 2.47

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Section AA

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Section AA

Chapter / Page: 2.46

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Section AA

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Section BB

Page Title: Section BB

Chapter / Page: 2.49

Chapter / Page: 2.48

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Section BB Section BB

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey Page Title: Section BB

The largest square houses the recycling centre and public amenities (such as cafes / restaurants / boutique craft stores), it is also the arrival point from the transport hub. The new square to the rear is a more private square and is the gateway to the monastery. In the proposal the existing courtyard will become a fully functioning part of the literature ‘factory’ with structures in place to hang paper during the drying process.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Relationship between the two new public squares and the existing courtyard space

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Section BB Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Section BB

Chapter / Page: 2.51

Chapter / Page: 2.50

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Section BB

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Section CC

Page Title: Section CC

Chapter / Page: 2.53

Chapter / Page: 2.52

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Section CC Section CC

Page Title: Section CC

Along with the transport hub comes the introduction of a new public footbridge which crosses the river and the small stream behind the newly constructed building. The access point from the bridge frames the entrance to the monastery and leads people into the main public square. Visitors can also access the large green space from the bridge and there are also contemplation points along the route. The bridge will be inhabitable and include smaller pavilions relating to the overall masterplan.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Bridging the Gap

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Section CC

Chapter / Page: 2.55

Chapter / Page: 2.54

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Section CC

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Section CC

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Section DD

Page Title: Section DD

Chapter / Page: 2.57

Chapter / Page: 2.56

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Section DD Section DD

New to Old to New The linear production is demonstrated via the relationship between the new ‘wood store’, the redeveloped/refurbished monastery ‘factory’ and the recycling tower. The public are able to view all elements separately or take the direct route through the buildings to fully understand the story. It is possible to view the process from start to finish without entering the buildings as each part is represented visually and physically via the interactive facades.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Section DD

Chapter / Page: 2.59

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Section DD

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Section DD

Chapter / Page: 2.58

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Section DD

Museum: it is here where visitors can examine the writing process and interact with the book manufacturing process in order to fully understand the story of a book.

Existing Glass Manufacturer: this will remain to help promote local industries and encourage creativity.

Cafe / Restaurants: providing the public with suitable recreational facilities will help reinforce the overall masterplan and ensure everyone is catered for.

Theatre: not only will this provide a platform for the travelling writer’s to promote their work but it will also provide the local community with a valuable resource.

Writer’s Retreat: a place to promote literature at all levels. Accommodation for travelling writer’s allowing them to focus during the writing process and a place for them to interact with like-minded individuals.

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey Chapter / Page: 2.61

Library: two of every book produced within the printing press will be archived within the library. The library will also have a large collection of books available to the public.

Page Title: Zoning

Paper / Ink Production: home to the printing press. This part of the monastery will be dedicated to the production of books.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Log Store: the new building will house all the materials needed for the production of ink and paper. It will also incorporate multi- functional units that can be used all year round.

Zoning

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Zoning

Chapter / Page: 2.60

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Zoning

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

4.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Design Agenda: Micro Studies

5.

Chapter / Page: 2.63

3.

2. Main Public Square

2.

5. Amphitheatre & Creative Towers

Page Title: Design Agenda: Micro Studies

Chapter / Page: 2.62

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

1. Log Store

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Design Agenda: Micro Studies Design Agenda: Micro Studies

1.

3. Homage to Elfriede

4. Pavilions & Wall

Chapter / Page: 2.65 Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The main axial route directs you into the landscape allowing access to the writing pavilions. The pavilions not only act as sculptures but provide inhabitants with a secluded writing area and are in essence a piece of urban furniture. Each pavilion is dedicated to Elfriede Jelinek’s main influences with a single more private pavilion placed within the small courtyard dedicated to Elfriede. The curved wall which dissects the landscape is an outdoor library. This is a place where people can freely exchange ideas and showcase their work and creative pieces. The curved wall of the outdoor library also adds privacy to the area surrounding the pavilions but is a lively backdrop for the larger more public square. The wall has a ramp incorporated to allow people access to the upper plateau.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: MS: Pavilions & Wall

Page Title: MS : Pavilions & Wall

Chapter / Page: 2.64

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Micro Study: Pavilions & Wall

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Micro Study: Pavilions & Wall

Chapter / Page: 2.67 Page Title: MS: Main Public Square Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The main public square provides the public with a large open space in which they can interact.

Punctuated by the tower the space is enclosed by the adjoining building which snakes along the rivers edge. The main public square is the first point of contact when travelling across the newly proposed footbridge, it also directs you towards the main entrance of the newly developed monastery. Visitors to the site are encouraged to travel through the long building and experience all it has to offer. When leaving the building visitors can still interact with the active facade which fronts the main square.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: MS: Main Public Square

Chapter / Page: 2.66

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Micro Study: Main Public Square

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Micro Study: Main Public Square

Chapter / Page: 2.69 Page Title: MS: Homage to Elfriede Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

A private pavilion that lies within a small existing courtyard, overlooked by a private reading room, both already located within the walls of the monastery. The pavilion is a specifically private due to the nature of Elfriede’s personality and character, known to be a social recluse, shying away from the public eye.

Beneath the surface of the surrounding gravel and within the walls of the pavilion is the ideas graveyard. The notes written by travelling authors are left here as a physical reminder of their literary journey through Neuberg- they are the stories of the books.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: MS: Homage to Elfriede

Chapter / Page: 2.68

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Homage to Elfriede

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Homage to Elfriede

Page Title: MS: Amphitheatre & Towers

Behind this space is also the public amphitheatre. The walls of the monastery act as the backdrop for performance. A space for creative shows that are accessible to the public all year round.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Allow the vertical exploration of the writers retreat. From the front landscape of the monastery the towers reach over its rooftops and so act as a visual link to the public, engaging and pulling people through to this unique space. When first penetrating through the monastery walls from the main public realm, the three towers are partially enclosed by the walls of the private writing retreat within the monastery. The vertical pavilions function as creative spaces and observation towers, not only of the surrounding landscape, but to also peer into the writing room windows and catch a glimpse of the authors at work. Interaction between the private and public realm on a new and interesting level.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: MS: Amphitheatre & Towers

Chapter / Page: 2.70

Chapter / Page: 2.71

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Amphitheatre & creative Towers

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Amphitheatre & Creative Towers

Chapter / Page: 2.73 Page Title: Log Store

The form of the log store acts as a key architectural device as the arms of the building create and enclose a new public square in front of the monastery and entrance to the cathedral.

The façade of the log store also actively engages the public by the use of adjustable market stalls that front this public square. This enclosed space in front of the monastery cathedral creates a more theatrical approach to the monastery and highlights this area as a hugely important location.

The roof can also be inhabited to allow the public with a view across the new public square.

The roof can also be accessed via journey down the hillside. It is here that the ancient and modern architecture meet to create a unique and significant piece of urban design.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

It is within the walls of the log store that the raw ingredients that are used within the printing press shall be kept.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Log Store

Chapter / Page: 2.72

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Log Store

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Log Store

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

*Appendix 4 : Design Development Drawings Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Masterplan Overview

Page Title: Masterplan Overview

Chapter / Page: 2.75

Chapter / Page: 2.74

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Masterplan Overview Masterplan Overview

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey Chapter / Page: 2.77 Page Title: Sustainable Design Approach

One of the key moves is that the masterplan will strive to be autonomous, using local resources and alternative energy sources to do so. The printing press will help champions this notion as the manufacturing process relies on the use of by-products from the local timber manufacturer. Any excess energy produced during the production process will be used throughout the site. The machinery within the printing press will be fairly low-tech, opting for human power over fuel. These functional kinetic structures will allow workers and visitors to interact with the process whilst taking a more hands on approach. One of the areas identified within our site could be used for the industrial farming of a super crop such as linseed. Linseed produces oil which can be used as a fuel to power our masterplan, the oil can also be used within the printing press as a key ingredient for ink production. Linseed can also be used for other purposes such as food and health care and is a very sustainable resource environmentally and economically.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

To ensure the masterplan remains a low-energy solution there are certain problematic elements that have resolved.

Previously the site was difficult to access with poor transport links and no infrastructure in place to support the redevelopment of the area. Providing Neuberg with a new transport hub will reduce the number of cars on-site and allow visitors to commute from larger surrounding towns. The introduction of shuttle buses not only reduces the amount of traffic through the site but provides the local community with an improved transport service. There is also the opportunity to reintroduce the old railway link which is adjacent to the newly constructed transport hub. The transport hub also promotes the use of the bicycle share scheme giving visitors the chance to travel around Neuberg and the surrounding landscape on two wheels.

Sustainable Design Approach

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Sustainable Design Approach

Chapter / Page: 2.76

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Sustainable Design Approach

Phase 2: Library, theatre, cafes and restaurants constructed providing the local community with valuable resources and recreational facilities.

Beneficial to the success of the improved monastery masterplan.

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Phase 1: redevelopment of existing monastery and construction of log store to the rear. Printing press, museum, glass manufacturing workshop and writer’s retreat created/refurbished acting as a catalyst for the redevelopment.

Phasing

Chapter / Page: 2.79

Chapter / Page: 2.78

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Phasing

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Phasing

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Phase 4: Two new public buildings, a new footbridge and a transport hub to accommodate the increased number of visitors to the site. This phase could be broken down into smaller stages if required.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Phasing

Phase 3: landscaping design to improve the access routes and give visitors and locals key points of interest. A device that will set the scene for what’s to come.

Gross Area (m2) Space Lost (m2) Rate

Net Area (m2)

Gross Area (m2)

Industrial 4450 (10%) 445 250 4005 Total (£) = 1,001,250 Commercial 2325 (20%) 465 190 1860 Total (£) = 353,400 Civic 10390 (20%)2078 290 8312 Total (£) = 2,410,480

Industrial 4450 800 Total (£) = 3,560,000 Commercial 2325 500 Total (£) = 1,162,500 Civic 10390 1000 Total (£) = 1,039,000

TOTAL(£) = 3,765,130

TOTAL(£) = 5,761,500

Capital Value

Surrounding Redevelopment

Yield @ 7%

14.2857

Value (£) = 53,787,517

Gross Area (m2)

Surrounding Redevelopment

Industrial 1500 (10%) 150 250 1350 Total (£) = 375,500 Commercial 2000 (20%) 400 190 1600 Total (£) = 304,000 Civic 2300 (20%)460 290 1840 Total (£) = 533,600 Research 1000 (20%)200 200 800 Total (£) = 160,000 Transport 7400 (10%)740 300 6660 Total (£) = 1,998,000 Car Parking 400 (10%)40 300 360 Total (£) = 108,000 TOTAL(£) = 3,479,100

TOTAL(£) = 19,241,000

Capital Value

Professional Fees @ 12.5%

Gross Area (m ) Space Lost (m ) Rate Page Title: Value of Proposal

Rate (per m2)

Industrial 1500 1200 Total (£) = 1,800,000 Commercial 2000 700 Total (£) = 1,400,000 Civic 2300 1400 Total (£) = 3,220,000 Research 1000 1600 Total (£) = 1,600,000 Transport 7400 700 Total (£) = 5,180,000 Car Parking 400 500 Total (£) = 200,000 Landscaping 19470 300 Total (£) = 5,841,000

2

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Rate (per m2)

2

Yield @ 7%

Net Area (m )

14.2857

2

Value (£) = 49,701,378

Chapter / Page: 2.81

Monastery Redevelopment

Page Title: Construction Cost

Monastery Redevelopment

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Construction Cost

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Chapter / Page: 2.80

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Value of Proposal

Total (£) = 3,125,313

Overall Capital Value Value (£) = 103,488,895

Overall Construction Cost Total (£) = 28,877,888

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Contingencies @ 3% Total (£) = 750,075

The 23rd of April is the World Book Day and is a key date within UNESCO’s calendar.

This special date also marks the birth of the new World Book Capital. For one year, between two consecutive celebrations of the World Book and Authors’ Rights Day (23rd April- 23rd April of the following year) the selected location will hold this prestigious title.

This day is especially important too as it is a time to pay a world-wide tribute to books and authors on this date, encouraging everyone, and in particular young people, to discover the pleasure of reading and gain a renewed respect for the irreplaceable contributions of those who have furthered the social and cultural progress of humanity.

The committee that works alongside UNESCO in awarding the World Capital of the Year consists of representatives from the three major international professional sectors of the book industry. This unison guarantees appropriate representation of the world of literature. They are the International Booksellers Federation (IBF), the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) and the International Publishers Association (IPA).

The IPA is of a particular interest to our project as it is an international industry federation representing all aspects of book and journal publishing. Established in 1896, IPA’s mission is to promote and protect publishing and to raise awareness for publishing as a force for economic, cultural and political development. Around the world IPA actively fights against censorship and promotes copyright, literacy and freedom to publish.

“Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.”

Article 19 - Universal Declaration of Human Rights UNESCO has celebrated the World Day of the Book and Authors’ Rights since 1996, with the purpose of publishers, libraries, bookshops, schools, cultural institutions and authors’ societies promoting the lasting importance of books and reading.

According to UNESCO data from 2008, the World Book Day is marked in more than 100 countries, with a steady increase in the level of interest in recent years. By celebrating this Day throughout the world, UNESCO seeks to promote reading, publishing and the protection of intellectual property through copyright. It inspires numerous events around the world designed to promote reading.

As the World Book Capital it is expected that the selected location will choreograph a yearly cycle of wide variety of events and projects created to support, promote and foster books, literature and reading. The integration of international professional organizations representing writers, publishers, booksellers and librarians and in full respect of the various stakeholders of the book supply chain is also fundamental within these projects. The program offered must bring together the local and national book industries and put books and book culture into the public eye.

The nomination does not imply any financial prize, but an exclusively symbolic acknowledgement of the best program dedicated to books and reading as the World Book Capital. Funding is granted from local government and it can attract sponsorships and extra funding from book related institutions. The title is also used to promote tourism and draw national and international attention to the literary heritage of a place and nation. Not to mention the injection of life that would be brought into the surrounding local economy and community.

The existence of the World Book Capital actively displays the ongoing fight for the promotion and existence of the book. Evidently literature and the retention of the book as a physical item is a top priority for many. The presence of these establishments and the beliefs of those involved reinforce our personal beliefs stated in the design manifesto. The improved masterplan of Neuberg offers a suitable platform for promoting literature and justifies our intentions. With our proposed program and ambitions set high, it is possible that Neuberg could one day be named the World Book Capital.

Chapter / Page: 2.83

Every year, The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), along with a professional committee, award a location as World Book Capital of the Year.

Page Title: Funding

The World Book Capital.

Buenos Aires (2011) Ljubljana (2010) Beirut (2009) Amsterdam (2008) Bogota (2007) Turin (2006) Montreal (2005) Antwerp (2004) New Delhi (2003) Alexandria (2002) Madrid (2001)

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Yerevan, Armenia, has just become the twelfth place to be designated World Book Capital for 2012. Previous years have included:

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Funding

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Funding

Chapter / Page: 2.82

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Funding

Funding

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Funding

Message from Ms Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO,

Chapter / Page: 2.85

23 April 2010

This year, the fifteenth World Book and Copyright Day is being celebrated in the

To make the fifteenth celebration of World Book and Copyright Day, I invite all

context of the International Year for the Rapprochement of Cultures (2010). The

partners, communities and UNESCO networks to join forces to promote respect for

opportunity will be provided today to review the role of books in our constantly

copyright and ensure that books take their rightful place in the social, educational

evolving world. Policy decision-makers, publishers, educators and civil society as a

and cultural spheres.

whole will need to consider once again the most effective ways of promoting that Books are works of art and science, and vehicles for ideas. They magnificently

irreplaceable tool for knowledge: the book.

materialize creative diversity, generate universal knowledge and contribute to

Books improve our knowledge of others and of their philosophies, and therefore

intercultural dialogue. They are instruments for peace.

Page Title: Funding

Page Title: Funding

Chapter / Page: 2.84

on the occasion of World Book and Copyright Day

enhance our understanding of the world. They also provide development

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Books cannot be celebrated without sparing a thought for the 759 million people who can neither read nor write, two-thirds of whom are women. Freedom to read, to receive an education, to access remote cultures and research findings is nonetheless a fundamental human right. Everyone must be able to enjoy the right to education.

Irina Bokova

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Today, 23 April 2010, let us celebrate every aspect of books across the world.

opportunities, for all ages and, in particular, for young people.

Freedom of circulation is also an essential requirement for everyone to have access knowledge derived from books. Innovative publishing policies that meet the needs and aspirations of every human being are, however, also required.

In the light of the emergence of new forms of books, of changes in the design, production and access to contents of books, it is urgent to recall that there can be no book development without respect for copyright. This is particularly the case at a time when digitization further exposes books to risks of illicit use.

DG/ME/ID/2010/08

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

to books. Translation of course plays a significant role in the transmission of

Chapter 3

Individual Masterplan (Neil Taylor): Analysis & Development of Key Space

Author(s): Neil Taylor Chapter / Page: 3.89 Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Proposed Area

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The defined areas of the masterplan where chosen for further individual development, the two outlined spaces have a clear relationship with the proposed tower and each area acts as a gateway into the site (from the transport hub and the main road respectively).

To ensure the masterplan remained coherent and was not compromised in any way we continued to work closely during the individual development.

Proposed Area

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Proposed Area

Chapter / Page: 3.88

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Proposed Area

• The existing road runs extremely close to the monastery buildings and the public footpaths are very narrow.

• The new square to the rear had not yet been resolved and a landscape design was needed to justify the proposal.

• Additional parking was need.

• Access from the main square needed to be resolved.

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

• The edge condition of the road needed to be addressed.

Chapter / Page: 3.91

Challenges of the site:

Page Title: Focused Plan

My individual development proposal focuses on the North-East approach with the main agenda being improving the public interaction with the existing monastery and improving the square adjacent to the chapel. Within this area we have already introduced a new building which encloses the rear yard to create a new public square, thus improving the public realm around the chapel. The improved public realm will become an adaptable landscape providing a versatile square which will house a multitude of activities relating to the functions of the adjacent buildings.

The existing buildings which front the main transport route will allow visitors to catch a glimpse of the new functions within and provide a starting point for the story. This route is also punctuated by the new and existing towers which act as a gateway into the large public square in front of the main entrance into the monastery courtyards.

Focused Plan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Design Statement

Chapter / Page: 3.90

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Design Statement

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Main Axial Route

Page Title: Main Axial Route

Chapter / Page: 3.93

Chapter / Page: 3.92

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Main Axial Route Main Axial Route

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Hanging Landscape

Page Title: Hanging Landscape

Chapter / Page: 3.95

Chapter / Page: 3.94

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Hanging Landscape Hanging Landscape

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Paper Facade

Page Title: Paper Facade

Chapter / Page: 3.97

Chapter / Page: 3.96

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Paper Facade Paper Facade

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Ink Cellar

Page Title: Ink Cellar

Chapter / Page: 3.99

Chapter / Page: 3.98

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Ink Cellar Ink Cellar

Page Title: Focused Plan in Context

The main axial route links all parts of the masterplan offering contemplation points along the way. The recycling tower guides you along the route and acts as a gateway into the production area, the three points of arrival are punctuated by the new tower. The production area houses the literature ‘factory’ and the two adjacent public squares will be used for the various production processes. The new public square not only celebrates the main entrance into the monastery, it also provides a more private space for visitors to interact with each other.

Visitors can sit amongst the hanging landscape or use the improved facilities all year round. The routes are determined by the improved adaptable landscape.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The addition of a new public building creates a public square which improves the arrival point to the monastery. The new building will be a direct link to the existing out buildings of the monastery and helps reinforce the new square, demonstrating directly the relationship between old and new. Not only will the square be the main access point for visitors but the addition of an adaptable landscape will celebrate the paper making process all year round. During the autumn and winter months it can be transformed into a seasonal market square and during the spring and summer months the adaptable structures will be used to hang paper throughout the drying process. The main transport route has been altered slightly to allow the public to walk safely through the interactive facade. It is at this point that the public can catch a glimpse of the book making process and eventually view the final product within the archive.

Chapter / Page: 3.101

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Focused Plan in Context

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Focused Plan Appraisal

Chapter / Page:3.100

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Focused Plan Appraisal

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: CDP Proposal

Page Title: CDP Proposal

Chapter / Page: 3.103

Chapter / Page: 3.102

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Author(s): Neil Taylor

CDP Proposal CDP Proposal

Ink Alchemy Fiction and fact stand side-by-side in the world of literature, every day we are bombarded with both. Stories fill the tabloids and scenes play out on our screens, the modern day dramas of society entertain the nation. A wealth of information is available to us at the press of a button but will we remember what we see?

With this freedom of information comes a choice, the choice of how to use it.

Some people have the ability to transform a common substance, usually of little value, into a substance of great value. These are the storytellers. Theses great minds see wealth where others see poverty, they can convert the seemingly mundane into a masterpiece, they document their tales in great novels and they leave a legacy for all to enjoy. The storytellers hold and share the future.

Page Title: CDP Proposal

In summary the project is a printing press dedicated to the production of books written by travelling authors. During the author’s stay he/she will produce a piece that will be printed within the press and archived in the public library, the book will become a unique product of Neuberg. The ink and paper will be made from the by-products of the local timber manufacturer making each copy and individual artefact. Visitors are invited to view the process at all stages in order to fully understand the story. The methods used will be adapted from traditional production processes and celebrated throughout. All machinery will act as functional sculptures promoting reading and writing. Each book produced will be alive.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The CDP will further develop the individual masterplan, with the main focus being the new building and the adjacent public square, the existing building facing the road and the central courtyard. The position and shape of the existing building makes it ideal for a linear production process. It has suitable access routes and can provide adequate floor space for any related machinery. As the initial brief was developed around the idea of a writer’s retreat this area would be dedicated to the production and storage of locally produced books. All aspects of the book will produced on-site.

Chapter / Page: 3.105

Author(s): Neil Taylor

CDP Proposal

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: CDP Proposal

Chapter / Page: 3.104

Author(s): Neil Taylor

CDP Proposal

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: CDP Proposal

Page Title:CDP Proposal

Chapter / Page: 3.107

Chapter / Page: 3.106

Author(s): Neil Taylor

Author(s): Neil Taylor

CDP Proposal CDP Proposal

Chapter 4

Individual Masterplan (Nicola Toomey): Analysis & Development of Key Space

Development: Main Public Square

Focused Plan

Of course the public square itself here offers the opportunity for activities and events to spill from the building itself out into the public realm. I believe it is key that when this building is further developed in my comprehensive design project that the idea of a permeable, active and interactive façade is key for not only the success of the urban square but the building itself.

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

The square itself is too an active realm naturally due to the movement of the public and traffic that has to pass through it. This square could be ideal for a variety of public events such as markets and street performances for example. There are four main approaches, flows of movement and points of entry into this large open public space.

The first is along the main axis that runs in front of the monastery, with the tower within the main public square as its node. This direct route cuts through the sculpted landscape in front of the monastery with various branches of this main route that lead to other areas of the proposed masterplan. This is purely a pedestrian route.

Chapter / Page: 4.111

Both facades of these buildings are active key features within this realm and influence how it will be inhabited. The façade of the new building acts almost as a promenade.

The public are encouraged to walk through this building. Its snaking form, anchored by the flow of the river naturally pulls people through and around the dimensions of the public square. The main façade of this building has a very active and permeable façade.

Page Title: Focused Plan

This square is key within the masterplan proposal for writer’s retreat as it is the largest and most prominent public realm present within the scheme. The square is enclosed by two key buildings. Firstly the museum and library reuse section of the monastery.

Secondly the new build which is a multifunctional building including retail, small businesses, workshops, restaurants, cafes and other public amenities.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Development

Chapter / Page: 4.110

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

I have chosen to focus upon the further study, analysis and development of the main public square located directly in front of the monastery. After assessing and designing the workings of this public realm further, it will be the location for my comprehensive design project.

Author(s): Nicola Toomey Chapter / Page: 4.113 Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Key Section

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The second pedestrian route begins at the proposed transport hub. The transport hub offers the opportunity for bicycle storage, car parking, and a bus and coach station. On arrival to the site via private or public transport this is where the public shall have first contact with Neuberg. A timber bridged footpath runs directly from the transport hub through the new build into the public square. This route brings the public directly into this key space at the heart of the writer’s retreat.

Key Section

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Linear Journey

Chapter / Page: 4.112

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Linear Journey

Chapter / Page: 4.115 Page Title: Key Approach Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The importance of visual links as architectural devices is key here. It is from this bridge that the tower of the public square, spire of the cathedral and vertical pavilions can be seen, all important visual nodes in gaining a sense of place and direction.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Key Approach

Chapter / Page: 4.114

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Key Approach

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Key Approach

Chapter / Page: 4.117 Page Title: Key Threshold Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The third entrance to the square is quite prominent as the tower of the new building and the existing tower of the monastery act as a gateway as you enter the public square directly between the towers. A powerful threshold and again, visual link. The existing tower and the new tower share a key relationship within this masterplan.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Key Threshold

Chapter / Page: 4.116

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Key Threshold

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Key Threshold

Page Title: Public Square Overview

To reduce the flow and speed of traffic within the square itself at any given time road chicane’s will be in place just before point of entry via road into the realm of the masterplan location. These involve building out the kerb, usually on alternate sides of the road, to effectively introduce bends into an otherwise straight section of route. This technique can allow two vehicles to pass or permit single vehicle flow only ensuring reduced traffic and speeds within the public square.

Within the design development of the square I have also made the two key axial routes that cross through the square more prominent. In the previous design, the two main axes gave way for the road. In having the axes cut across the road, again with a change in surface material the pedestrian route becomes the dominant point. The enhanced axes become a dominant feature and automatically creates two crossing points within the square. It also strengthens/encourages pedestrian movement safely through the square and out into the masterplan, having more clear connections with the other key spaces.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

The final flow of movement through the square is along the main road. When designing the masterplan the presence of this singular main road presented the biggest design challenges. The road does cut directly through the centre of the public square. It was not feasible for the road to be redirected. Therefore a series of design decisions have been made to help reduce the impact of this issue.

In keeping with the goal to reduce speed the surface texture of the road changes when entering the public square too. The square and road have a shared surface. The path of the road is marked out by a series of road studs for the awareness of both drivers and pedestrians. The theory behind the shared surface is that the road does not visually break up this key space and also makes drivers more focused and in a higher state of concentration with this change in driving environment.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Public Square Overview

Chapter / Page: 4.119

Chapter / Page: 4.118

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Public Square Overview

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Public Square Overview

Chapter / Page: 4.121

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Key View

Page Title: Key View

Trees have also been used as devices to create a further sense of enclosure within the square and act as noise buffers that any traffic may create. They also act as framing devices within this landscape. A collective of trees have been placed at the crossing points of the two main axes within the square, framing the tower and creating a more grand entrance for the library and museum of the monastery. With the newly divided square each building now has its own share of the public square, in essence mini public squares enhancing the importance of each building and allowing for greater public interaction on a variety of levels.

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

In terms of usability, the dominant axes now divide this large square into smaller fragments, more spatially manageable and usable. Before the square I feel could have been considered a little too large for on whole mass of space. With the refined square design in place urban furniture has been placed into the large middle pocket of the square, adjacent to a green space. This creates a secondary key space, within the primary key space of the square, allowing for the public to stop and inhabit the square itself as it punctuates the space.

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Page Title: Key View

Chapter / Page: 4.120

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Key View

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Focused Plan in Context

Page Title: Focused Plan in Context

Chapter / Page: 4.123

Chapter / Page: 4.122

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Nicola Toomey

Focused Plan in Context Focused Plan in Context

Chapter 5

Final Proposal

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Subtitle: Writer’s Retreat

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Title: Neuberg Monastery Masterplan

Page Title: Final Masterplan

Page Title: Final Masterplan

Chapter / Page: 5.127

Chapter / Page: 5.126

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Author(s): Neil Taylor & Nicola Toomey

Final Masterplan Final Masterplan

Neil Taylor

Nicola Toomey