FUNCTION

Bubble Diagram illustrating my concept for the function of the science centre. Like I said earlier, I want the building to function as a "journey" of travelling from one module (exhibit) to the next module (exhibit). The highlighted red sections act as open (transitional) space or otherwise used for larger exhibits.

MODULAR FORM

Looking at my previous blog entry. My first conceptual attempt at a design is verging on the organic, 'fluid-like' elements of architecture. An issue that Ryan brought up during my feedback in week 8 is "how do you make this modular?" Architecture that moves rather than static.

Developing design in 3 parts

1. FRAMING SYSTEM (steel) - fixed to site

2. MODULES (slot in/slot out) - prefab module shipped to site - slot into steel frame system

3. MESH FACADE (attached/detached) - attach to steel frame system

An illusion of growth

The concept that I've continued to develop througout this design process is the idea of "growth" - architecture thats somewhat parasitic in its form and essentially gives the "illusion" of growing from the ground. - (FORM)


Additionally, I've developed on the idea of the "individual journey" - architecture that takes the user of an interactive journey - (and in particular with a Science Center - the transitioning of one space to the next) - (FUNCTION)


EXPLORATION:

FORM
(A basic Idea of a form I want to develop) something that gives the appearance of growing from the ground - ie. Roots of a tree and modules act as leaves)

FUNCTION
(I want the user to transition from one module to the next, like climbing up a tree). Further I want to explore the concepts of transitioning indoor/outdoor - the journey from one experience to the next)

A modular Science Centre

Tutorial week 6

After sharing my idea for a building brief with the group. It was discussed the my building would be more suited as a science exhibition centre - as my folie was centred around the concept of the "individual expereince" and an "interactive journey" - we thought a building like this would definitely explore these elements.

Here is some examples interesting science centre's (some projects, some existing) I've come across that explore an "organic" "growth" in its form which I'm hoping to achieve.

Belgrade Science centre

National Science Center Dehli

Hamburg Science Centre (project) 

What I've noticed about most science centers (especially in the Hamburg science center above) is that they often revolve around the concept of the "interactive journey" the "transitioning" of one experience to the next experience (from one space to the next). This is a concept that I would like to develop further in my design.

User group:

 - Families and children

(Placing a science center on the site would definitely activate the site - drawing in families and hence creating a "family-safe" vision for the site of Howard Smith Wharves)

Given that the user group would be families and children, my mission is to design a space that draws in children, is interactive, fun and plays on the concept of a journey.

Function of the building is key. This will determine the overall "experiential journey" for the user.

Haptic Architecture

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uugjeDl_tPc

RE: Mitchell Joachim: Don't build your home, grow it! | Video on TED.com

http://www.ted.com/talks/mitchell_joachim_don_t_build_your_home_grow_it.html

Interesting Video posted up by tutor, that looks at the concept of "growing" a home. The speaker described his design as a "meat house" a house in which has living cells... Wierd concept I know! To think a building has livings cells makes me question -- wouldn't it eventually decay?? --- and how do they avoid this? Was a short video so it leaves me with many questions. But to keep to keep it short, although the concept is really fascinating, Its not exactly clear as to how one can build a house out of living tissue -- is it truly realistic?? Do they take inspiration form the functioning of a human body?