legacy project. edition 2.0
table of contents 1.0 vision 2.0 audience & purpose 3.0 site description 3.1 general description 3.2 steps 3.3 plaza
4.0 key elements 4.1 waterloo identity 4.2 direct travel routes 4.3 types of seating 4.4 sustainability 4.5 south commons continuity
5.0 phasing 5.1 general phasing 5.2 detailed phasing 5.3 future suggestions
201723
1.0 vision Since the Arts Quad’s construction in 1960-1969, its function has vastly changed. With the exponential growth the university has seen in the past decade, and that which is likely to continue for decades in the future, it is time for public spaces on campus to truly represent Waterloo’s international status.
The new Arts Quad will be transformative; embodying the best of Waterloo’s innovative identity by providing an inspiring social space, while increasing the speed, safety, and accessibility for commuters. It will be vibrant. It will be modern. It will rejuvenate South Campus.
Figure 1. Perspective one
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2.0 audience & purpose We Identified two major categories of users of the space; students and visitors. Students would be the primary users of the space and thus it is this group’s needs that we prioritized. To understand the needs of this group, we conducted a survey of 36 students passing through the Arts Quad. We found that currently, the predominant function of the space is a commuter zone to either access the DP, or to reach another academic building. When asked what they would like the function of the new Arts Quad to be, 73% responded that they wanted the space to be a social space to relax and meet with friends, and 48% wanted it to be a space to host campus events. All this data enabled us to distill two major functions of the space. Firstly, from the site’s current use, it is clear that it is a key commuter zone. Recognizing that this is an important function of the space, the new design will aim to create more direct travel routes between the major destinations on campus. Secondly, understanding the demand for social spaces and recognizing their importance in improving the Waterloo student experience, this site will aim to create more social spaces for students from different faculties to gather and interact. This will be established through the creation of tiered steps and enclosures. The secondary users of the space will be the multifarious international visitors that visit campus every year. We identified two major functions of the space for visitors. Firstly, the Arts Quad must serve as a central core that facilitates wayfinding for visitors, and secondly, the space must truly represent the spirit of innovation that Waterloo students embody.
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Figure 2. Site plan
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3.0 site description 3.1 general description Our design identifies Dana Porter Library as the predominant destination on the site and thus establishes it as the focal point. We will have several paths radiating from the entrance of the DP that will divide the site into two main sectors; the Steps and the Plaza. The steps serve as casual seating for students to interact and relax, while the Plaza serves as a gathering space.
Figure 3. Perspective two
201723
To make the site safer at night, we will be adding two bollards (less costly than the use of poles as in the South Commons) and three wall-packs. A conversation with Muzammil Hussain from SimplyLED Lighting solutions assured us that these lighting adjustments would cost no more than $10000. We will also be adding clear way-finding signage (similar to those found in the South Commons) at two major intersections in order to make the site easier to navigate for visitors.
Figure 4. Way-finding precedent
Figure 5. Bollards
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3.2 steps In the new Arts Quad, the nine steps that currently exist would be combined into three larger steps. This will allow the steps to be significantly deeper (from 12 cm each to 36 cm each), and allow for students to use the steps as seating. An additional ledge of 9 cm will be added at the edge of each step level. This enables the area to be landscaped with grass and brings each step to 45cm (average seating height) (Figure 6). Additionally, we will be changing the profile of the steps. The profile of the top two set of stairs will remain the same in order to minimize the cost of construction. The bottom set of stairs will be extended outward in order to increase greenspace (thus maximizing the utility of the site and better enable the movement of vehicular traffic (Figure 7). Finally, two sets of stairs will be constructed on either side of the steps to enable pedestrians to move with ease across the site. At the base of these stairs, we will be placing engravings of inspirational quotes of Waterloo Alumni. There will also be two ramps on the steps, one on the southern edge and the other in the centre; these enable the movement of accessibility vehicles, bikes, and motors. Alex Malcom from Sax Construction provided us with a rough estimate for the construction of the steps to be no more than $68,000. This includes the construction overheads such as fencing, shut downs, utility locates and tree removals.
Figure 6: Conduction of steps diagram
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Figure 7. Elevation diagram
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Figure 8: New extended area diagram
new extended area diagram
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Figure 9: Section cut diagram
section cut diagram
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3.3 plaza The Core will serve as the main social area for students in the Arts Quad and will see several significant changes. Firstly, we will be moving the newly built bike rack area to the sides of the site. The rationale behind this decision is to enable us to use that central area for a more vital gathering space. During our interview with Mark Zuzinjak (lead urban planner of the South Commons at the GSP Group), he informed us that they had intended for the bike rack area to be temporary and that it would not be very costly to move it to another location. In place of the bike area, we will be creating the site’s major gathering space to host orientation week events, outdoor performances, and club activities. This area will have angular seating on the edges that serve to enclose the space and create additional social seating. On the floor of this space, we will be creating floor art as a cost effective method to add more colour to the area and truly establish the space as the “Arts Quad.” This art will be created through a UW student competition, and will utilize a part of our budget as the prize money. An example of the type of floor art we may see in the space can be seen in Figure 10. At one edge of this gathering space, there will be six display panels where UW student work from all six faculties will be displayed. The placing of these panels not only allows those passing the adjacent path to view them but also for those in the pavilion to interact with them. The art work in these panels will be changed every three months, and could potentially be managed by the library staff. Such initiatives increase student engagement with the site and create a sense of ownership of the site. Another major change will be the creation of four new formal paths on the site. Firstly, the newly constructed path parallel to the DP will be extended to the steps area. Secondly, a parallel path that begins with the TC and ends with the steps will be created. These two parallel paths will be intersected by a third path that runs from the DP to the AL. Finally, a last path originating from the DP, down the steps will be constructed. These paths are strategically placed such that they enable the movement of people in the direction they most frequently travel. They are also strategic in that they all emanate from the DP and work to create a sense of unity on the site. Finally, a large “Ideas Start Here” sign will be placed parallel to the path in front of the DP. This serves to both; establish the DP as the focal point on site and celebrate Waterloo’s 60th anniversary.
201723
Figure 10: Floor art precedent image
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4.0 key elements 4.1 waterloo identity A key element of our design brief was to create a space that celebrates both the cultural significance of the site and sixty years of UW’s legacy. Keeping this in mind, we have embedded various elements throughout the site that celebrate Waterloo. Firstly, we will be placing small plaques inscribed with quotes from significant Waterloo Alumni on the two sets of stairs leading to the Plaza area. This small detail helps create a sense of pride for the brilliant minds UW has nurtured through the years. Next, is the installation of six art display panels alongside the side of the centrally constructed path. These panels will display projects created by the six UW faculties and will be changed every three months. The purpose of these panels is to integrate the various faculties and create a greater sense of connection with the site. Currently, there is a problematic disconnect between the faculties, where each is unaware of the achievements and events of the others. Through showcasing the most impressive work from each faculty we create a greater sense of unity among the faculties and build pride in UW’s accomplishments. Lastly, we will be installing a large “Ideas Start Here” sign in front of the Dana Porter Library. Currently, when students visit campus, they tend to take pictures with the Waterloo sign at the tip of South Campus. This art installation serves to create another such unique element that is iconic to the Waterloo Campus.
201723
Figure 11: Plaque
Figure 12: Art Diaplay Panels
Figure 13: “Ideas Start Here” sign
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4.2 direct travel routes There are three main modes of transportation whose needs need to be addressed in this site; pedestrian movement, bike movement, and motorized vehicle movement.
pedestrian movement Understanding that a major function of the Arts Quad is facilitating the movement of students across campus, we have introduced clear, direct, pedestrian paths between the major destinations on the site. These paths were established through two levels of analysis. Firstly, through our interview with Mark from the GSP Group, we found that the new paths had been built in order to maximize visibility across the site and establish clear sight lines. Understanding the importance of maintaining clear sight lines in increasing student safety, we decided to retain and extend the current paths. Secondly, using the above mentioned survey, we conducted our own movement analysis to understand the routes most travelled by students. We saw that the most travelled path is a diagonal between the North Corner and South Corner of the Quad. There is also some traffic from the South Corner of the Arts Quad and the DP, and from the SLC to the AL. Having established these major movements, we overlaid appropriate paths that allow students to move easily between the destinations (Figure 14).
bike movement & accessibility Next, in order to make the site easily accessible by bikes and accessibility vehicles, we have created one new ramp up the stairs and widened the existing ramp near the AL such that it is up to code. We will also be widening the DP accessibility ramp. Lastly, we have moved the bikes racks from the middle of the site, to closer to the buildings so that cyclists can more easily access the buildings.
motor-vehicle movement Finally, understanding that the area must be accessible by motorized vehicles (for accessibility and delivery purposes), we have kept the western section of the site free for vehicular traffic and retained the existing accessibility parking spots. We have also changed the facade of the steps such that it is easier for vehicles to maneuver around the tree and better access the site. Vehicle movement will be restricted to this portion of the site as to reduce the conflict between the various modes of transportation and create a safe space for pedestrian and bike use.
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Figure 14. Pedestrian movement diagram
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Figure 15. Motorized movement diagram
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4.3 types of seating Our design includes the use of two types of seating in order to facilitate a wide range of activities on the site.
a. wide step seating We recognize that the change in elevation of the site proposes a unique design challenge. We understood that it is out of our budget to try to level the site, and so decided to treat the steps as an opportunity rather than a constraint. Inspired by the way the steps were constructed in the Waterloo Square, we decided to utilize the steps to create seating where students can sit to socialize with their friends and relax.
Figure 16. Wide steps precedent image
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Figure 17. Angular Seating
b. angular seating This refers to the angular seating that we plan to introduce to the Plaza. Its unique shape enables students to both interact freely with each other and still have a view of the wider Arts Quad. The placement of this seating, around the edges of the gathering space, also creates an enclosure where students felt comfortable gathering. Additionally, the seating creates a division between the pedestrians on the paths and the centre gathering area, and thus enables a degree of privacy important to host events.
201723
4.4 sustainability We recognize the University of Waterloo’s unique emphasis on the development and the utilization of innovative and realistic solutions to pressing environmental issues. To further its commitment to become an environmentally sustainable campus, we are using three main sustainable elements on our site. Firstly, all the lighting on the site will be LED Lighting. LED lighting is the newest, most energy effective lighting in the market. While a typical Incandescent bulb uses a 60W of energy and a typical fluorescent bulb uses 40W, a LED bulb uses merely 9W of energy. Previously LED’s were very expensive to buy and consequently less widely used. Now with the advancement of technologies, their price has been reduced significantly. Thus the use of LED’s throughout the site is both economically and environmentally sustainable in their installation, and through the lifecycle of the project (significant energy savings). Next, we will be using interlocking tiles for the majority of pavements on the site. Interlocking tiles slow down the flow of stormwater and allow for its infiltration into the soil underneath. This reduces stormwater runoff and prevents the contamination of adjacent water bodies (Laurel Creek). Finally, in our survey, many students expressed a desire for increased green space and sorrow for all the trees lost during the SLC/PAC expansion. We understand the importance of green space as both a mediator of the local ecosystem and a tool to improve the mental health of students. Consequently, we plan to increase green space through the creation of several green grassy spaces across the wide steps.
201723
Figure 18: Vegetation Diagram
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4.5 south commons continuity Students at UW often criticize the lack of unity of the various buildings and elements on campus. In response to this complaint, we decided that the new arts quad must flow seamlessly from the newly created South Commons area adjacent to our site as to create a more unified campus design. Figure 19: Speckled tiling To do so, we decided to use the same types of pavement tiling as those used in the South Commons; Type A: Speckled, Type B: Uni Standard 6x6 Square. We also decided to use the same vendor of fixtures as that used in the South Commons in order to continue its modern design. We identified that the fixtures were imported from landscapeforms.ca, a Michigan-based furniture design company and will be importing our angular seating and bollards from this company. Finally, we tried to retain the the clean modern lines of the South Commons, and continue its use of straight lines through the site. Figure 20: Uni standard tiling
201723
5.0 phasing Fourth Co. is taking a pro-active approach in achieving our vision, recognizing not only that budgetary restrictions limit us from achieving everything we want right away but also that the Arts Quad is an integral commuter zone for the University, one that cannot be shut down for several months. Our new, refined proposal not only meets budgetary requirements, but also minimizes disruption to students, staff and visitors to the university.
5.1 overall phasing After speaking with Francis Ruffolo (Geotechnical Engineer), Karen Gervais (Plans Examiner) and Craig Cox (Building Inspector) from the Town of Innisfil, we decided to break construction up into two major phases. The three experts advised that shutting down a major commuter zone would negatively impact student success as well as the recruitment of new students. Thus, we are dividing construction in a way that keeps access to all the buildings around the Arts Quad and ensures that commuters can still move through in a safe and accessible fashion. Broadly speaking, the first phase will close off the Western portion of the site, and would focus on the stairs. The second phase would close the elevated portion of the site and most of the central and eastern sections of the Quad
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5.2 detailed phasing Phase One
Phase Two
1. Build the new accessibility ramp through the site. Once it is complete, demolish the old accessibility ramp (located adjacent to Arts Lecture Hall) and begin work to reconstruct it so that it is up to code.
1. Erect Tree Preservation Fencing around the mature trees alongside Dana Porter Library and those alongside Arts Lecture Hall
2. Close off most of the western portion of the site (where the stairs currently are), leave the new ramp open and use it to facilitate all pedestrian, cyclist, and delivery/ service automobile traffic and connect the existing elevated section of the quad to the Modern Languages and beyond. 3. Erect tree preservation fencing around the existing mature tree in front of Modern Languages as well as other trees within a 25-metre radius of construction work. 4. Demolish the existing steps and reconstruct them in the angular pattern we envision for the site, at the same time, construct the commuter stairs and paths that will run through the western portion of the site. 5. Sod the seating areas along the angular steps to allow for the landscaping of grass. 6. Pave the Westernmost path in the elevated area to ensure that students can still access Dana Porter Library as well as Arts Lecture Hall during phase two of construction
2. Reconstruct the existing accessibility ramp connecting the Arts Quad to Dana Porter Library such that it is up to code. 3. Add the electrical wiring needed to the site to introduce two new bollards. Currently the site uses 900V unsuitable for LED lighting, so new wiring would have to be overlaid. Install the wall packs. 4. Dig up the newly laid asphalt in the centre of the site and move the existing bike racks to more suitable locations along the sides of the site. 5. Build the remaining three pathways on the site. 6. Install the details of the site; “Ideas Start Here� sign, two way-finding signs, angular seating, and art panels throughout the elevated portion of the Arts Quad. 7. Run a student competition throughout campus to select a design for the floor mural. $1000 from the budget may be used as prize money for the winner. Gather artwork for panels through a university wide collaboration with the deans of each faculty.
201723
Figure 21: Edge seating
5.3 future opportunities Our revised submission is missing several key elements presented during our preliminary submission, Fourth Co. made various changes in order to stay within the funding being allocated for the legacy project. Should there be a time in the near or distant future where additional funding becomes available, Fourth Co. would like to see the following initiatives implemented: 1. Repaving the western portion of the site using interlocking tiles similar to those used outside the EV2 area. Currently, the concrete on this portion is extremely old and cracked. Replacing the concrete with the tiles will ensure continuity of the site into the rest of campus, add colour to the site, and reduce the speed of vehicles (since paving is a traffic calming measure) so that the vehicles can safely interact with the cyclists and pedestrians on site. 2. Tiling and landscaping of the central gathering space to create a move cohesive gathering space. 3. Replacing the existing building signs with bigger, modern signs in order to fit between with the design of the site site and better enable way finding.
201723
Figure 22: Patio seating 1. Adding an electrical, touch screen, interactive wayfinding monitor near the intersection of the various paths leading to Dana Porter Library. This technology would be acquired from Mapped-In, a company that was started by students of the University which also employs several co-op students every term. Its position helps establish the DP as the major destination of the site and reinforces its function as a focal point. 2. The addition of edge seating and patio tables. During our interview with Mark, he mentioned that an important element of their design was the use of Active Edges. This refers to the process of creating curves and edges that students can sit on and utilize. We would install this at the edges of paths, and at the western portion of the site. Additionally, rounded patio tables will be placed at certain levels of the steps. These are not very large, and function as space for students to socialize or conduct quick activities. Their placement on the steps helps establish the steps as a social area 3. Wooden paneling of the edges of the steps. This creates a more comfortable environment for students to sit. 4. Renovating the steps leading up to the DP such that they are easier to navigate and fit the modern vibe of the site. 5. Additional lighting for the "Ideas Start Here� sign such that it is clearly visible even during the night.
201723
thank you To all the survey respondents who took the time out of their day to fill out our survey. To Mark Zuzinjak from the GSP Group for agreeing to talk with us and taking time to patiently answer our questions. To Muzammil Hussain from SimplyLED Lighting Solutions for giving us valuable insight into LED lighting and its costing. To Alex from Sax Construction who helped us understand the cost of concrete construction and enabled us to create a feasible proposal. To the inspectors and planners of Innisfil who helped us understand phasing.
201723