Studio 05, Edge Conditions.
20/21
PORTFOLIO Studio 05: Edge Conditions. The studio looked at Edinburgh as the primary site of enquiry and looked to investigate architectural responses to ‘edge conditions’, conceived both literally and figuratively. The ‘edge conditions’ were the initial starting point and catalyst for our projects. A phrase with a huge range of possibilities and meanings, therefore providing a loose theme for the studio. This allowed us a vast range of ‘experimentations and iterations, from the most literal and material to the more ephemeral and metaphorical.’1 On visiting Edinburgh it was the topographical edge condition of the Water of Leith that I chose to use as a starting point. A literal and physical edge condition which weaves and winds its way from the centre of Edinburgh out towards the edges of the city. As you traverse this physical edge condition within the city, the dramatic changes in architectural typology and social context become dramatically apparent. The Water of Leith cuts through the ever changing social and historical edge conditions of the various neighbourhoods and districts of Edinburgh. Leith became an area of particular interest due to the visible historical scars; abandoned and derelict buildings are set within a dramatic climate of social change. For centuries Leith was known as the ‘economic powerhouse’ and ‘gateway’2 to Edinburgh but in recent years has seen changes to its role within Edinburgh and the UK at large. The decline of trade and industry in the area led to poor quality housing and unemployment, resulting in a dramatic increase in the number of artists and creatives within the area. This emerging community has led to a transformation of Leith from a port and industrial giant to a cultural and creative
Edinburgh, Scotland. Social, Economic, Topographical, Environmental. Artistic + Cultural Community. Leith.
Stage V Architecture Portfolio. ARC8050. Newcastle University. Year 05. Brandon Athol Few.