THEMATIC LINKS
Framing Views
The Core
Construction Efficiency
Subject: Studio Episilon
Year: Year 3
Framing Views
The theme of framing views has become a key consideration in my designs after analysis of the Radix in subject Digital Design. This precedent creates multiple thresholds through a series of arched voids which in turn frame the river and industrial environment. Through further research I determined links between this and the concept of borrowed scenery or 'shakkei', but within built forms, which emphasises the continuity of interior and exterior space. It is also defined by the architect showing only the features he wishes to show. Being exposed to this inspired me to delve deeper through my Studio Delta project within I utilised viewing niches hide and reveal glimpses of vistas. These offer areas of intrigue, encouraging a transition from the ground urban landscape to the open, light filled galleries. I have aimed to broaden my understanding of this to installation art, such as the ‘Somewhere Other’ by John Wardle, which is a piece that uses multiple portals through a lens to connect Australia and Venice.
The Core
What is the core and where should it be placed? The core is one of the most fundamental principles of architecture, but also construction. Through study of Frank Lloyd Wright homes in year 1, his designs were based off a pinwheel plan, where the hearth is the heart of the plan in which rooms spiral off. In comparison, when analysed from a construction viewpoint, the core is the lift shaft of a building, or the vertical space used for circulation particularly in high rise dwellings. However, in a low-density project, such as Assignment 2 of Studio Epsilon, I wanted to explore if the core was shifted to being the kitchen, where 2 dwellings would enter through a shared kitchen. Rethinking this establishment of the core has taught me the importance of questioning through speculation.
Construction Efficiency
Construction Efficiency is a concept that I felt there was not large focus on when I was only studying Architecture and became more prevalent through the Construction Management major. Here core concepts were introduced such as concrete and steel materiality, joint structure, and different types of connections. This correlated back into how understanding structure can interplay into aesthetics of architecture and affordability, for example exposed ceilings and services to make a statement. La Borda in Barcelona is a social housing project that utilises CLT and Glulam components which sped up production while creating a warmth within the complex. Likewise the 'shiguchi' traditional wood joinery joints in Japanese Architecture are built without any external fasteners, yet still remain strong and durable. I aspire to take this knowledge into Assignment 3 of Studio Epsilon through creating an beautiful yet austere designs for Build To Rent homes.