Academic Study
Artful Healing: An Art Therapy School
Thesis:
The art therapy school explores humanity’s journey through life. Life is a constant spiral of freeing ourselves from our limitations. As a species, we are restricted by our technology. As infants, we are restricted by our knowledge, size, and communication skills. The journey through infancy to adolescence provides the opportunity for us to free ourselves from these limitations however, we are constantly faced with new ones. This is the spiral of life.
‘Art has the extraordinary capacity to express resistance and rebellion, protests, and hope. It is a vital contribution to any flourishing democracy’ –Deeyah Khan
The arts are disciplines that focus on freedom of expression. Through the arts, we can free ourselves from the limitations of infancy, adolescence, and adulthood as it is all about feeling free to express ourselves in an environment where there is no right or wrong answer: we can unapologetically be ourselves.
The stigma that surrounds mental health, can be seen as a limitation that we need to break free from. The path to freedom is not always easy or clear so, the art therapy school will be a compass, guiding the local community and students on this journey. The school aims to adopt artistic disciplines – visual art, dance, drama, and music – as a tool towards freedom, becoming a safe haven for all.
Waterside Meadow Lane Lock, the site for this school, is bounded by two water bodies: the river Trent and the canal. These water bodies can be related to humans through the Fibonacci, which is a sequence that relates the scale of nature (including humans) to science and geometry. The school will adopt this geometry through its form, to represent the journey through life’s limitations.
Through its form, this school will represent the movement from restriction to freedom through a combination of narrow corridors and open plan spaces, walls become restrictive pathways, and classrooms and studios become the light at the end of the tunnel, where freedom from the struggles of life are encouraged through the artistic disciplines.
Academic Study
Massing Strategy:
The massing strategy divides the art therapy disciplines into specialised environments: music, art, dance, and drama. Educational buildings are on the north side, while the re purposed lock house buildings on the south serve as a relaxation (downtime) centre. Students can unwind near nature to alleviate stress. Interdisciplinary interaction is facilitated by a water pavilion acting as a multipurpose space for exhibitions, symbolising the journey’s end.
Geometry Strategy:
The Fibonacci sequence links nature to science and geometry. Inspired by the journey from restriction to freedom and the site’s natural surroundings, my design employs the Fibonacci spiral to connect art therapy buildings and site sections. The public square marks the spiral’s tightest point. Moving outward, the spiral symbolizes freedom toward nature, represented by water bodies. The water pavilion at the spiral’s end offers an exhilarating experience with a glass base, blurring boundaries between man and nature, mirroring life’s journey.
Site Access Strategy:
The existing site has four main access points, including the canal-side path. Integrating these points into the access strategy allows for through routes within the school’s massing design, converging at the central public square.
To facilitate wheelchair-friendly pedestrian access between the north and south parts of the site, I designed a bridge following the overall Fibonacci arrangement of the design.
Solar Gain Strategy:
The school design includes a central courtyard for natural sunlight penetration. Solar panels are integrated for renewable energy. Roof slopes of Music and Art buildings follow the sun’s path to enhance solar energy production.
Academic Study
Academic Study
The Journey
1.
THE APPROACH:
ROOF BRIDGES:
This visual shows the roof bridges that connect the buildings of the 4 art therapy disciplines (art, music, dance, drama) together
ROOF TERRACES:
This visual shows the active roof terraces where students and the local community can socialise, enjoy student exhibitions and other outdoor entertainment .
ATRIUM:
This visual shows the atrium of the music department, which also consists of a light well to bring warmth and daylight into the deep plan space.
MUSIC STUDIO:
This visual shows an interior view of one of the music studios
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Academic Study
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Sustainability Strategies:
Solar Panel:
The school sustains itself with south-facing solar panels, a renewable energy source.
Passive Ventilation & Cooling:
Natural cooling is achieved through a courtyard, large windows, and thermal mass elements like re purposed brick, utilizing prevailing winds and radiant cooling.
Sustainability:
Re purposed brick from the site’s science laboratory reduces embodied energy. Solar panels, passive ventilation, and solar gain align with sustainable principles, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Energy Efficiency:
These strategies lower demand for artificial lighting, mechanical cooling, and grid-based electricity, enhancing energy efficiency.
Carbon Footprint:
Integration of solar panels and re-used materials reduces carbon emissions, minimizing reliance on non-renewable resources and lowering the carbon footprint.
Academic Study
Structural Development:
- The final grids for the buildings are illustrated on the left.
- By developing a separate grid for each individual building with its own radial point allows me to resolve this issue while creating an internal space that allowed for users to experience the concept of restriction to freedom
- In addition I wanted the scheme to be sustainable My though for this was to use an entire glulam (timber) structure due to the low embodied energy of the material, its durability and renew-ability
- However as the site has flood risks there are issues with this as timber, even when treated, can get water damage.
- Due to the spans and heights of my internal spaces I considered using 300x300 steel beams and columns.
- After conducting an FCBS carbon analysis for my building using steel, brick and concrete for it structural system I concluded to use clt columns and beams to reduce the embodied carbon in my scheme.
However, the part of the structure below the ground level will be concrete.
- This provides flood protection and water resistance for the part of the structure likely to come into contact with water in the event of a flood
- I also went for a concrete pile foundation because of its high load bearing capacity and durability.
- It is also a recommend foundation type for areas prone to water-logging such as the site of my school
Detail A:
Scale - 1:5
Detail C:
Scale - 1:5
Detail B:
Scale - 1:5
Personal Project
Pulborough Pier
Inspired by the organic forms of the South Downs signage and the undulating topography of Pulborough’s meadows, the design features a striking, naturalistic structure. Utilising corten steel and timber, materials synonymous with the South Downs region, the platform rises elegantly on ‘stilts’ resembling tree-like columns. This design choice not only reinforces the connection to nature but also allows for continued use of the space as a car park, with the platform suspended above.
Lightwells integrated into the structure ensure ample natural light penetrates the lower level, preserving visibility and ambiance. Biodiversity is promoted through the inclusion of vegetation on the platform, mirroring the natural flora of the surrounding area. At the end of the platform, the ideal viewing point offers visitors a breathtaking panorama of Pulborough’s scenic vistas. .
A key aspect of the design is its commitment to sustainability. Solar panels integrated into the platform enable the generation of electricity to power lighting and other amenities. This self-sufficient energy solution not only reduces environmental impact but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the project.
The Pulborough Viewing Platform represents more than just an architectural structure; it embodies a vision for sustainable development, community engagement, and appreciation of natural beauty. As an aspiring sustainable designer, I firmly believe in the importance of integrating environmental considerations into every facet of my work. Through thoughtful design and integration with the surrounding environment, the project seeks to enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike, while fostering a deeper connection to the unique landscapes of Pulborough. My dedication to sustainability drives me to create spaces that not only enhance the built environment but also prioritize the well-being of both people and the planet.
Personal Project
Practice Experience
Old Manor Cottage
The Project:
Redevelopment of existing outbuildings
My Role:
Responsible for developing both existing and proposed drawings using site survey information. Collaborating closely with the team, I ensured that our proposal met the specific needs and desires of our client. Additionally, I contributed to creating Photoshop elevations of our proposal, which were prominently featured in our design and access statement for the project.
Practice Experience
50 Notting Hill Gate
The Project:
Transforming an old Lloyds Bank Building into a Food & Beverage scheme
My Role:
I was responsible for converting the existing Revit model into our proposed restaurant scheme, working closely with structural engineers and utilising site survey information. Additionally, I curated a comprehensive document showcasing our restaurant proposal to the client, integrating concept images, visuals and technical
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83 m² OPEN PLAN LIVING SPACE
74 m² KITCHEN 18 m²
ID-00-08
8 M TRAVEL
DN
Practice Experience DN DN
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©ARCHITECT'S COPYRIGHT RETAINED GENERAL NOTES dimensions be checked on site. Use figured dimensions only. Queries to be directed to the Architect. Refer to Structural Engineer's drawings for deta relating structure Any discrepancies between the Architect's drawings and those by any other party to be reported immediately. drawings are not for construction unless explicitly marked for this GENERAL NOTES ON MATERIALS Materials comply with appropriate British Standards Agrement Certificate stamped and independently certified otherwise to show their suitability. Materials should be in accordanc with BS8000 series documents and other accepted good practice (e.g. Quality assured ISO9000). RevDescriptionDate T01Drawing Issue 26.03.22 T02Fire Curtain added 20.04.22 C01Construction Issue 17.05.22 C02Construction Issue 22.06.22 C03Construction Issue 28.07.23 C04Construction Issue 04.01.24 C05Construction Issue 29.02.24 30 MINUTE FIRE SMOKE CURTAIN FIRE STRATEGY KEY 60 MINUTE FIRE SMOKE CURTAIN 30 MINUTES FIRE RATED DRY RISER MINUTE FIRE DOOR MINUTE SMOKE SEALED DOOR
1 2 3 5 6
The Project:
Development of a 2 storey House
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10 m² UTLITY m² PLAYROOM m² WC 37 m² CINEMA ROOM 70 m² POOL ROOM
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ID-00-01 ED-00-03
My Role:
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m² 19 m² HALL POOL PLANT
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13.9 M TRAVEL 11.5 M TRAVEL 16.3 M TRAVEL 5.1 M TRAVEL 10.8 M TRAVEL
38 m² GARAGE
F
clear vision of the proposed playcastle.
the client with
FIRE ESCAPE Ground Floor Plan
ANTIQUE BRASS DOOR THRESHOLD STRIP Drawing Number
Job Number Job Title Drawing Number Revision Status CONSTRUCTION Scale Drawing Title www.ra-l.com 16 Iliffe Yard London SE17 3QA rory@ra-l.com ©ARCHITECT'S COPYRIGHT RETAINED Use figured dimensions only. Queries be directed to the Architect. Refer to Structural Engineer's drawings for deta relating to structure Any discrepancies between the Architect's drawings and those by for construction unless explicitly marked this purpose. Materials comply with appropriate British Standards Agrement Certificate stamped and independently certified otherwise to show their suitability. Materials should be accordanc documents and other accepted good practice (e.g. Quality assured 20 C01 A011 11 Withdean Road A011-322 Playroom Rendered Interior Elevations RevDescriptionDate C01Castle playhouse added to 09.01.24 Playroom Elevation A Playroom Elevation B 2 Playroom Elevation C 1 20 Playroom Elevation D 4 ted to the Architect. relating to structure Any discrepancies between the Architect's drawings and those by any other party to be reported immediately. for construction unless explicitly marked for this purpose. GENERAL NOTES ON MATERIALS Materials comply with appropriate British Standards Agrement Certificate stamped and independently certified or otherwise to show their suitability. Materials should be in accordanc with BS8000 series documents and other accepted good practice (e.g. Quality assured ISO9000). RevDescriptionDate C01Castle playhouse added to playroom 09.01.24 1 20 Playroom Elevation A 1 1 20 Playroom Elevation C 3 Playroom Visual 1 20 Playroom Elevation A 1 1 20 Playroom Elevation B 2 1 20 Playroom 3 1 20 Playroom 4 Job Number Job Title Drawing Number Revision Status CONSTRUCTION Scale Drawing Title www.ra-l.com 16 Iliffe Yard London SE17 3QA rory@ra-l.com ©ARCHITECT'S COPYRIGHT RETAINED GENERAL NOTES All dimensions be checked on site. Use figured dimensions only. Queries to be direc Refer Structural Engineer's drawings for details relating structure Any discrepancies between the Architect's drawin and those any other party be reported immediately. All drawings are not for construction unless explicitly marked for this Materials to comply with appropriate British Standards or Agrement Certificate stamped and independently certified or their suitability. Materials should be accordanc with BS8000 series of documents and other accepted good practice (e.g. Quality assured to ISO9000). 20 C01 A011 11 Withdean Road A011-322 Playroom Rendered Interior Elevations RevDescriptionDate C01Castle playhouse added to playroom 09.01.24 1 20 Playroom Elevation A 1 1 20 Playroom Elevation B 2 1 20 Playroom Elevation C 3 1 20 Playroom Elevation D 4
Retention of air duct and 2 new emergency access lights within the front lightwell
Existing ramp up to raised floor Wooden balustrade behind bar stools Existing step up to raised floor Existing column retained Free standing coat cupboard and reception desk joinery Retention of the reconfigured seating booths either end of the banquette seating into DJ pulpits Retention of the illuminated signage within the windows New menu board stand to be placed within the courtyard
Retention of 3 AC casettes
Existing fire escape stair Existing fire escape window retained Retention of extract duct within store Retention of partial height joinery to match height of balustrade
Practice Experience LIFT SERVICE LIFT job title drawing title drawing no. revision
GENERAL NOTES Use figured dimensions only. Queries directed to the Architect. Refer Structural Engineer's drawings for details relating structure Any discrepancies between the Architect's drawings and those by any other party to be reported immediately. All drawings are not for construction unless explicitly marked for this purpose. GENERAL NOTES ON MATERIALS Materials comply with appropriate British Standards or Agrement Certificate stamped and independently certified otherwise show their suitability. Materials should be accordance with BS8000 series documents and other accepted good practice (e.g. Quality assured ISO9000).
The Project:
Listed Building Consent for grade ii* listed church
My Role:
Line of existing mezzanine above 2 N.O. Existing dumbwaiter shafts to lower ground floor kitchen Retention of the stage and DJ pulpits Fire escape stair Existing railings retained
Retention of lighting rigs either side of the alter
Retention of reconfigured bar and kitchen Retention of the speakers and new light fittings and projectors Free standing planters to enclose refuse bins and kegs
Existing old york slabs to be lifted and saved. New bedding laid and a mix of existing and close matching reclaimed traditional york stone slabs relaid
ARCHITECT'S COPYRIGHT RETAINED status job no. 10m 1:100 @A3 1:50 @A1
Existing glass balustrade retained to mezzanine edge 6 N.O. Existing ceiling hooks Existing reredos retained
fixed
Existing reredos retained Retention of wing artwork Ground Floor Plan job title
date amendment
Monmouth Planning Ltd 38a Monmouth Street London WC2H 9EP info@monmouthplanning.co.uk
9a St Thomas Street A592
INFORMATION
Use figured dimensions only. Queries directed Architect. Refer Structural Engineer's drawings for details relating documents and other accepted good practice (e.g. Quality assured ISO9000).
London SE1 9RY GROUND FLOOR 003 P01
Retention of partial height service counter Existing stair Retention of speakers Retention of new lighting P01 22.02.24 DRAFT SET First Floor Plan
GENERAL NOTES All dimensions checked site. Use figured dimensions only. Queries be directed to the Architect. Refer to Structural Engineer's drawings for details relating Any discrepancies between the Architect's drawings and those by any other party to be reported immediately. drawings are not for construction unless explicitly marked for this purpose. Materials comply with appropriate British Standards or Agrement Certificate stamped and independently certified otherwise show their suitability. Materials should be in accordance with BS8000 series documents and other accepted good practice (e.g. Quality assured ISO9000).
job title
rev date amendment
Monmouth Planning Ltd 38a Monmouth Street T: 020 7042 0410 E: info@monmouthplanning.co.uk
ARCHITECT'S COPYRIGHT RETAINED 9a St Thomas Street London SE1 9RY
ARCHITECT'S COPYRIGHT RETAINED 5m 1:50 @A3 1:25 @A1 008 P01
New signage on the stone plaque
Retention of the illuminated signage within the windows New signage to the railing New menu board stand to be placed within the courtyard
Monmouth Planning Ltd job title
Section D Front Elevation
Retention of hanging sign Free standing planters to enclose refuse bins and kegs
Monmouth 38a Monmouth Street WC2H 9EP info@monmouthplanning.co.uk
GENERAL NOTES dimensions checked Use figured dimensions Refer Structural Engineer's structure Any discrepancies between any other party reported drawings are not GENERAL NOTES ON Materials comply with Certificate stamped and their suitability. Materials documents and other ISO9000). 10m 1:100 @A3 1:50
The Project:
Transforming an old Lloyds Bank Building into a white box scheme
My Role:
Throughout the construction process of this project I have been responsible for drawing roof details and issuing them to the contractor. Examples below: