Flora Berki Portfolio

T he O ld Gr a i n S t ore Primary Health Care Centre in Killala Killala , a picturesque seaside village has a population of 562 people, and as in many remote villages in the West of Ireland, most of them belong to the elderly community. Isolation among these people is a wellknown problem, that is affecting both physical and mental-wellbeing. My aim was to create a space for them, where they can receive all the medical treatments they need, while providing a social “safe-space”, where they can share their stories and spend quality time together.

While designing the Old Grainstore, I wanted to make sure that the original characteristics of the building are preserved, and the new elements are inserted with appreciation and respect of the context. The added materials and structures speak the language of the old, but clearly with a new accent.

Elderly Day Care

The idea of the shelving-system came from the rib cage-like form of the Belderrig-type Currach, specific to North Mayo. The structure aims to make good use of inhabitable space with low headheight. The plywood shelves connect to the existing trusses forming a series of archways with the intention to make one feel contained.

Limestone as a natural material has unique qualities that define the characteristics of the Grain Store. With sustainability in mind, I was looking for ways to repurpose stone from a demolished interior wall, and use it in an unconventional way. The result is a stone screen, that is made of various size stones drilled through, then secured to threaded stainless steel rods with simple nuts.

Receptin and Waiting

From top to bottom: -Seaweed bath -Staircase made of copper mesh -Alternative waiting area in the Grain shoot offering coffee

The Playful Elegance of

Reflection Recod Label HQ in Ballycroy

Electro swing combines electronic beats with swing and jazz samples, and the result of this experimental genre is a happy music, characterized by the energetic excitement of brass. By aiming light onto slightly curved brass sheets, it creates reflections on the surrounding walls, and this beautiful phenomenon is able to capture special moments in life. Experiencing and enjoying things together can connect us just the way music does.

To emphasize brass’ power, I was aiming to create a somewhat neutral backdrop for these dancing reflections.

Electro swing is a fusion of two very different genres, and this idea inspired the selection of materials. The interior is characterized by opposites, balancing elegance and warmth, with minimalism and modernity.

Recording Studio Foyer - Rendered in Twinmotion and Photoshop

Conceptual Development

From top to bottom: -Hallway under roof pool -Office space -Bar -socializing area

The Art of Slowing Down Derelict church repurposed as an Atelier

The design brief was to create an Atelier for Alvar Aalto in an old chruch building.

Ahamlish, the site, is situated near the Wild Atlantic Coast and is a tranquil area surrounded by farmlands. The design aims to create a peaceful environment for working and relaxing while paying tribute for Aalto’s rich legacy in Architecture and Design. The interior spaces are highly influenced by his works and majority of the furnishing are Artek products. The materiality also celebrates mid-century modern design aestetics and was selected with sustainability in mind.

Sitting Room- Hand drawn render

Hand made model 1:50

Timber (pine) Brass fixtures Fabric Upholstery Alvar Aalto’s pencil tile design Red Brick Cane

Oak flooring Tinted Glass (Amber)

Material Boards

Watercolour hand drawings of interior spaces

Current semesters’ project - Hotel design in derelict cinema building in the heart of Sligo town

Sensory Mapping

Site Analysis

Storyboard - Hotel concept featuring transformative communal spaces

Sectional study and idea development

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