Zahrah Ahmad Portfolio

Page 1


BIOPHILIC SANCTUARY

The centre I designed aimed at creating a sanctuary for the future that not only enhances the city but also enriches the lives of its residents. Recognising the pressing issue of mental health within the city, I chose to address this by creating a centre dedicated to fostering mental well-being and rekindling a connection with nature The sanctuary is designed to offer a blend of low-intensity activities and nature-based interventions, providing individuals with a holistic approach to improving mental health. A key aspect of the design process involved sustainability, with a commitment to restoring the natural environment, utilising reclaimed materials and implementing waste minimisation strategies. By intertwining nature, mental wellness, and sustainable practices, the center not only serves as a place of wellness but also as a catalyst for positive transformation within the community, creating a blend of human and environmental wellbeing

GREENHOUSE

POTTERY STUDIO

GREENHOUSE

NORTH SECTION

intensivegreenroof

extensivegreenroof

reclaimedtimber frame

poplarbarkcladding

timbervcoumns

CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS

Wa compositon

poparbarkcadding12mm plywoodbacking timberfixingstud verticaltimberfixingbatten breathermembrane 9mmOSBsheathing 150mmwoodfibreinsulation

glulamcolumn

vapourbarrier

25mmGypsumplasterboard

12mmstee anchorbolt

glulambeam25mm

Gypsumplasterboard vapourbarrier

window

18mmfooring 120mminsuation 100mmconcreteslab compacthardcore

blockwork si plate

450mmconcretestripfoundation

270mmwoodfibre insulation9mmOSB sheathing breathermembrane verticaltimberfixing battentimberfixingstud 12mmpywoodbacking poparbarkcadding

150mmconcreteslab

1:50 SECTION AND ELEVATION

150mmconcreteslab

400mmgluambeam

400mmgluambeam, roofingedge Wallcomposition

fooring

150mmconcrete slab

Blockwork compacthardcore

25mmgypsumplasterboard

100mmwoodfibreinsuation

timberfixingstuds

12mmpywoodbacking

9mmOSBsheathing poparbarkcadding

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN

My project focused on addressing the pressing issue of homelessness, and so my design centred around creating temporary housing tailored to their needs. The result was an innovative approach: temporary apartments designed to be flexible, accommodating varying lengths of stay and different household sizes. Beyond providing shelter, the design aimed to foster a sense of community and support among residents. Common spaces were integrated to encourage social interaction, while on-site kitchens and cafes offered employment opportunities, empowering residents to regain stability and reintegrate into society. This approach not only addressed immediate housing needs but also aimed at long-term rehabilitation and empowerment for the homeless.

1laundryroom 2kitchen

3communalarea

4conferenceroom

STRUCTURAL BAY MODEL

20mmbricksslip 25mmcarrierboard membrane stee pins

100mminsulation vapourbarrier 25mmgypsumplasterboard

50mmbeddingspace steelbots

600mmconcretepadfoundation

250mmgrowingmedium

40mmdrainagelayer rootbarrier

40mminsulation

150mmconcreteslab steeldecking

CONSTRUCTION AXO

AVIAN ARBOR

WETLAND RESERVE

The Design Concrete competition involved creating a visitor centre in the chosen wetlands site that seamlessly integrated concrete while prioritising environmental sustainability and wildlife safety. The solution consisted of a concrete structure elevated above ground level, to adapt to flooding as well as safeguarding the local biodiversity. The visitor center serves not only as an educational hub but also as a sanctuary for visitors to explore and learn about the area without disturbing its delicate ecosystem. To minimise environmental impact, locally sourced concrete was utilised, with careful attention to detail in mimicking the texture of wood by molding concrete around wooden forms.

HAND

BIOPHILIC SANCTUARY

MADE BY HAND

Thissectionshowcasesmy model-makingabilities, blendingtraditional craftsmanshipwithmodern technology.Icancreate hand-craftedmodels, demonstratingmyworkshop skillsandproficiencywith toolsandmachinery.Iam equallyadeptatusingCAD forlasercuttingand3D printing,highlightingmy versatilityindigital fabrication

PROCESSES:

BIOPHILICSANCTUARY

Material: Plywood Basswood Craftsticks Tools: Copingsaw File Craftknife

RESIDENTIALDESIGN

Material: Foamboard Tools: Craftknife

SITEMODEL

Material:

MDF(3mmand6mm)

Process: AutoCADmodel Lasercutter

FARNSWORTHHOUSE

Material:

MDF(3mm)

Process: AutoCADmodel Lasercutter

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN

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