Ambition A key requirement is the provision of an accessible, flexible and functional rain protected space to allow a number of varied uses. This space needs to be easily transported to a number of locations in Winchester and the surrounding district. A neutral canvas to allow artists and performers to dress and manipulate the space would be preferred. Approach Our proposal is structured around the use of a flat bed trailer (Max permitted transit size 7m long, 2.5m wide and 4.2m high from road) This can be towed behind a vehicle fitted with a tow bar. Whilst providing the method of transit, this also generates a stage and a stable base to allow a covered structure above. We have based our design on these principles to be delivered by a specialist supplier. This presentation describes how we have generated a brand for the project through its form, how it is assembled and the types of spaces it can create for performance and events. Precedent There are precedents for such mobile pavilions in the form of Pageant Wagons where mystery and miracle plays were performed from the 10th through to the 16th Century. Pageant comes from the archaic word for the wagon stage, "pagyn.” It is a word used to describe the movable stage on which a scene of the processional religious play was performed.
Pageant wagon from the medieval period. About us Design Engine is an award winning architectural practice based in Winchester. We work nationally and internationally across many sectors including education, higher education, public and private housing, arts, culture and leisure. Design Engine Architects Ltd The Studios, Coker Close, Winchester SO22 5FF www.designengine.co.uk
The Diamond Jubilee Commission : A Portable Event Space for The Winchester District Design Proposal - 19-06-13
The section of the pavilion (when opened up) generates the letters “W” and “A”, so we have suggested branding the event space for the “Winchester Arts”
This pavilion is likely to host events from a wide user group who all have distinct and well known identities. There is the opportunity for stakeholders and users to brand the pavilion during an event, but also when it is in transit.
This form is also reminiscent of the Royal Crown and a reference to the Diamond Jubilee.
The closed pavilions triangular form follows the model of mobile billboards where its transit cover could become a advertisement for events, as well as displaying its own brand.
3 1 2 4 1 4X4 to pull trailer 2 7mL x 2.5mW trailer chassis. 3 Protective transit “billboard” awning with screen printed branding 4 Tow bar extending from trailer chassis The pavilion would arrive at its destination towed behind a vehicle fitted with a conventional tow bar. The trailer is branded with screen printed graphics on the transit cover to advertise events, stakeholders, sponsors and users.
1 - Transit + Branding
Design Engine Architects Ltd 2013
Pavilion travels and arrives at destination
A The transit cover used to protect the folded pavilion is removed and stored under the trailer chassis. The chassis is moved into the desired location and levelled with support legs.
B Floor sections either side of the chassis are lowered into position using a manual or electric winch (TBC). Support legs are braced and levelled to create a stage area 700mm above ground level, measuring approximately 7m x 7m.
C The two side frames are swung out to stretch and tension the roof canvas creating a rain protected stage surface. Stored fittings above the chassis have their transit anchors removed.
Design Engine Architects Ltd 2013
2 - Set up
4x4 uncoupled, transit cover removed, floor lowered, roof opened.
E The flag pole mast is dropped into a sleeve at the point of the tow bar frame and then braced by a support arm connected back to the “A” frame. Different users could provide their own banner, the height creating a landmark and locator for the pavilion.
D The ramp is then slid out on its rollers through the “A” frame structure. Whilst its length will not provide a pitch shallow enough for unassisted access, it will allow wheelchair and ambulant disabled users to access the stage platform. Stored fittings are laid out prior to assembly.
3 - Set up
Design Engine Architects Ltd 2013
Ramp, skirt panels and flag pole assembled.
1 Side frame beams serve as lighting truss 2 Central beam serves as lighting truss 3 Stage lights set up as required 4 Side awning fitted to rear of stage 5 Access via steps 6 Access via ramp 7 Stage
If intended for use as a performance space, a side awning is put up to the back of the stage area. This provides a back drop for the performers, a surface for branding, reflected light and projection. Stage lighting and projection can be set from the central spine beam and proscenium.
1
2 3
4
6
7 5 The tow bar platform provides a landing surface for stepped access through the “A� frame. The step treads and handrails are assembled on both sides of the tow bar platform to give access to both performers, artists and visitors.
Design Engine Architects Ltd 2013
4 - Stage + performance
Steps assembled, side awning set up to rear of stage - pavilion ready for performance.
1
1 Side awnings fitted to both sides of stage 2 Stage lighting to centre of space 3 Access via steps 4 Access via ramp 4
The ramped and stepped access through the “A�frames provides a strong axial point of entry to the pavilion. This suggests that the space could be used as a landmark, hub and meeting point for a festival, or the assembly point for an exhibition or event.
1
2 1 4
If intended for use as an enclosed event space, side awnings are put up to both sides of the stage area. This provides enclosure and a surface for branding, reflected light and projection. Lighting and projection can be set from the central spine beam. The pavilion is now ready to host an exhibition, installation, event, workshop or gathering.
3
5 - Enclosed environments
Design Engine Architects Ltd 2013
Side awning set up to both sides of stage - enclosed environment
Design Engine The ‘pros’ and ‘cons’ of this design are listed below. Please add your own thoughts to the list below.
Pros
Cons
Easily transportable via trailer
Audience sits outside of the structure
Stage is raised and provides rain protection
Could be time-consuming to erect
Disabled access
Local manpower required to transport and erect
Potential to promote sponsors etc Additional features could be procured over time Flexible formats vary with nature of performance