A*UTCE A. Project 2, N.S.z5205228ArchitectureARCH1201,studio3BenjaminSelig
WATCH TRAILER 2. z5205228 PORTFOLIOCONTENT•OF• #03 / Client Brief #04 /Site Analysis #14 / Terrace House - Concept #18 / Terrace House - Context #22 / Terrace House - Content #30 / Terrace house - Climate Analysis #36 / Public Space - Concept #40 / Public Space - Content #50 / Public Space - Climate Analysis #54 / Models
was facilitated by the wide corridor which becomes an extension of the main living space when used in this Theway.smaller residence will be occupied by the family’s grandparent who also had input into the design process. Being a close couple, the grandparents ask for a space where they could always communicate. Thus, loft spaces where created on the first floor, allowing for a connection between the spaces. A large kitchen was required to fuel the pairs passion for cooking, whilst a library and studio space were also requested to support the grandfather’s tutoring business.
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CLIENT BRIEF
The end result is a stylish subdivision of space which is tailored to the extended family’s needs and lifestyle.
The Clients Feedback
The family is excited for their new residence. They have had little concerns with the planning of the building. The kids are especially excited to use there internal garden. nancemainte-issueremain.problemsever,ple,byapprovedhasbuildingabouteverythingAlmostthebeenthecou-how-someAnwithin the side.thewindowscreentweenfallsdebriscleanabilityalsoarisen,gardeninternalhasandthetooutthatin-be-theandonsouth
The client family has been a pleasure to work with and allowed for a creative yet practical Beginningdesign.withthe main residence, the young family who commissioned the build, strived for a striking low carbon home that felt bigger than the 105 sqm it encompasses. Some specific requirements stressed by the family was that the studio viewed the activity of the general public. This was to fuel the passion for journalism the pair have. Having kids aged 2 and 4, it was preferred that separate spaces were created for the two age groups. This was achieved by separating the first floor into two distinct bedroom zones. The two daughters require reasonably sized bedrooms to facilitate creativity and fun, with a shared space so that they can play together. This
SITE ANALYSIS.
9AM Sun Eye View on the Winter Solstice
These finding can be broken into three categories, climate analysis, historical analysis and general analysis.
Climate analysis exposed the interaction between the sun and this site, and also other factors such as wind, humidity and cloud cover. Seen on the right, on the winter solstice, direct sunlight in limited at ground level, thus other measures will have to be used to bring light downwards into a building.Historical analysis uncovered the classical styles present in the surrounding architecture, giving a guide to use when attempting to blend a new design into this urban landscape.General analysis gives an insight into how people currently interact with the site, and thus, how the designed building should also interact with the site. This includes circulation, noise, pollution, building height/use and vegetation diagrams, which in turn, shapes the newly designed form.
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96 Kent street is a very unique block, which has many challenging aspects which shape design strategies in various ways. Through a number of site visits, physical / computer modelling and other programs such as ‘climate consultant’, the sites aspects were understood and analysed.
11AM View
12PM View Eye View Sun Eye View on Solstice
on the Winter Solstice 1PM Sun Eye View on the Winter Solstice 2PM Sun
on the Winter Solstice 3PM
the Winter
Sun Eye
on the Winter Solstice
Sun Eye
10AM
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Sun Eye View on the Winter Solstice
However, with the completion of inclusion.wouldsideathusberoutespublicrooBaranga-soon,newtransportwilllikelyinstalled,spaceforbusstopout-theparkbeawise
Being a reasonable implemented.bikesergisetoareasbike,sitewilltheinteracthoweffectspublicfromdistancenearbytransportwhoandpeoplewillwithsite.Peopleenterthebyfootorandthusforpeoplerelax,re-en-andstoremustbe
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Visitors to the site can often see the area well concept.withestheprivate.feelsnaturallythemeansandtalledBeingwithin.ofhidingtheventiveinglookspacetheDuefootwhichcrossingspedestrianstepstoenteringbeforeduetheagarandslowtraffic.tothis,publicshouldintrigu-andin-fromoutside,layersenjoymentlocat-amongstbuildingscliffsthatspacemoreThus,residenc-couldplaythis
The site theopeningsmisationtheelevationvegetation,throughminimisedanddirectional,tionthustotolution.anderablefromsitecentre,toBeingterrace.vacyandcro-climatethewillThisaddingthis,maintainingbetionandvegetation,besurroundingisbeautifulatten-shouldpaidtoandtoit.plantingregulatesitesmi-aidinpri-forthenextthecity’sthesuffersconsid-noiseairpol-Duetheclifftheeast,pollu-ishighlycanbeandmini-ofonsouthof
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Historical Analysis.
Initially, five designs were created area.surroundingqualityarchitecturaladdinternally,usefulnotneedallmentally,site.aspectsuseconceptaarefimodelling.throughquestionedandAllvedesignsbasedondifferentanddifferentoftheFunda-designstoworkonlyasaspacebuttotheofthe
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the south. Internally, this design was structured around a central shared courtyard which all living and kitchen spaces bled into. The private spaces such as bedroom and bathrooms were located upstairs to reduce noise effects and maximise light to these spaces.
To mance.bonofanbuildingmodelalarLastly,plausibility.buildingsanalysedtioninconstructingplanscontext.withinracehowgiverenderssite.intoedelsmassingsketchupeachanalysisdesign,mod-werecreat-andplacedtheSimplecouldanideaoftheter-workeditsFloorwereconjunc-whichtheso-testsofphysicalofeachgaveindicationitslowcar-perfor-Design Analysis.
Concept 1 was inspired by the heritage architecture surrounding the site. It aimed to draw from those aspects, but say something new about architecture at the same time. It harboured acute angled roofs to mimic those surrounding it, but played with a striking roof line when viewed from
centre of the spirals direct light into the house during the afternoon.
On the exterior, the building is space.thethroughcanscreenthroughitsalsothefromaFeelingthetheiswayetation.throughertoconnectingorganic,theoth-buildingveg-Atwogardenlocatedatfrontofbuilding.likesmalloasisinside,publicenjoybeautyaandlookintopublic
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limitsspacecirculationTheenvironment.surroundingtaposeswhichorganiclimitedtheproblemssolvesthisAlthoughdesignmanyofsite,itisbyitsformjux-thelargealsothesize of the icingwhilsttoalsonalofTheareathespacesotherduetogrossfloorlimit.privacytheinter-gardenisdifficultmaintainkeep-theorgan-form.
Concept 2 was built around the piecessemi-circularReflthethroughoutthermalmaximisespacesdoublelightandNorth-Eastingtheed.buttospacethroughingway’,‘CahilltheDrawnlightmaximisingstairspiralandaccess.fromspirallingExpressmov-verticallytheaimedbeslow,anticipat-Rotatingbuild-totheinvitingintotheheightwouldgainmornings.ectiveinthe
This andbecomerienceculatingThusdeadspacesseparatessizes.eswhichlationmuchallowsconcepttoocircu-space,reduc-theroomItalsoallintoends.thecir-expe-wouldslowlessdra-
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matic. Due to the vegetation.theattheconnectioningings,theitmodernconceptsform,juxtaposessurround-leav-itsonlytolandscapeitsbaseinformof
Concept 3 was conceived as an explosion of waysThesewaylation/breeze-naturalallowingasjacentconnectstationThisoffromstructuresverticalabasevegetation.vege-alsoad-towerstheyrise,aventi-system.breezeactas the corridorsmain between rooms and staircases, spaces.uallymakesexternalwhichatroomAllowingexperience.outside’ingencourag-an‘insidelivingeachtohaveleastfacesarewallsforvis-stunning
Concept 4 looked in depth spacesInternally,theandbothenjoyedspacessystem,andflcurtains,formed.buildingglassideaprivacy.bleamaintainingingssurround-withconnectionthetocifiprivacy.atSpe-callyhowmaximiseresidencetheirwhilecomforta-levelofTheamostlylayeredUsingre-ectiveglassascreencanbefromwithinoutsideresidence.which require more privacy are located on higher levels, where the reflective glass will not allow any views into the thebebutfeelsthefromwhenimplemented,densTwocourtyard.centraltentionresidenceanddownstairsenandLivingspaces.spacesthekitch-arelocatedfocustheat-tothesharedwaygar-arealsoviewedwithin,spaceprivate,canalsoadmiredbypublic.
In silhouettesresidenceexposesbuilding.exitinglightlittlescreenwindowsthechallengetimeexist.limitationprivacy,thepushinglimitsofsomeNightisalargeasreflectiveanddotostopfromtheThisthe to the public. neighbouringcornerthenectiononlydrawingsurroundings,juxtaposesthismodernlem.thiswhichmeasureareCurtainstheonlycanfixprob-Beingaform,conceptitsitscon-toroundedonthe
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z5205228 13.communityaspaceThisflthelocatedstorytimemajoritytoisTheer,accessallowscourtyardlight.muchdon’troomsutilitiesingtheTheside’‘insideinterestingcreatescreen5Conceptusesthetoanout-space.baseofbuild-containsandwhichrequiresun-Acentralstillsolarhowev-itislimited.residenceencouragedspendtheofinthe2‘pods’onsecondoor‘Garden’.elevatedcreatesminiature above the base. With the privacy of the screen, the pods in.andsurroundingsmirroringatflWithcommunity.aglimpsesing,ingtheExternally,formtheexperiencesuburbanmoretheaimsThesurroundings.viewsgardenbysurroundedareaprivateandoftheconcepttogivefamilyofainsmallerfactor.build-isstrik-seeingintominiaturethere-ectiveglassthebaseitsblending In fiissmallOnisthemuchtakethesecantheseareareducesintolivingmostmovingoftheareaspods,itthethatspacestakeup.Ifspacesuptooarea,gardenreduced.suchablock,itdifficulttondthebal- ance theprivacyandwithofatleavingchystepalsoThisthispectsthesebetweentwoas-throughdesign.designhasahierar-ofspaces,spacesthebottomtheordernolightminimalfromstreet.
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Taking elements from all five concepts, the terrace is a link between the heritage area of Millers Point and the developed City of Sydney. The building is built around the juxtaposition of two timestamped interpretations of ‘the terrace house’.
CONCEPT.
The west facade is a continuation of the neighbouring frontages, where as the south facade plays with a ‘rock’ texture, almost as if the traditional façades have been chipped away
ACUTE | THE PREMISE
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Three separate first story spaces provide secluded areas for the 3 age brackets in the family (grandparents, parents and children), each contain a staircase for vertical circulation. Areas without a floor above can elevate the ceiling providing powerful expansions and contractions when transitioning into a new space.
Space Separation
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To the North, almost all buildings are recognised as heritage listed, whilst to the South, buildings become newer. The concept of blending the two sides of this site into a single form is the premise for the ‘classical’ townhouse frontage. On the south of the terrace house, dense terrace forms are left faceless, as if the heritage frontage has been ‘chipped away’ over time.
Along Kent Street, facades remain similar with slight changes to the decorative cast iron balustrades. Thus, in keeping with this pattern, the facade of ‘Acute’ will also slightly change the design of the cast iron balustrades.
Heritage Surroundings
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WEST ELEVATION
The terrace is located on a corner block in Millers Point (96 Kent Street, Millers Point, NSW) To the east of the terrace lies a large cliff, whilst to the north and west lie heritage terrace housing and a hotel. Adjacent to the house is landscaped public space house.complimentswhichthe
CONTEXT.
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façade.seentheinteroperationstheofterracehouseonthesouthern
The connection between these spaces is important as to not allow the public to view into private spaces. Walking from the north down Kent street, the public transition from heritage to modern, but are given a glimpse at modern architecture between blocks 94 and 96, which is a precursor to
z5205228 19. SOUTH ELEVATION
Children’s play corridor looking south, over the public space
Grandparents library, looking south west over towards Barangaroo
Front balcony looking south, connecting the children’s rooms
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Master bedroom facing south, looking over the public space
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One of the most challenging aspects was allowing for the family to view these aspects, while maintaining privacy. This was facilitated by the screens and reflective glassing installed on the south facade of the building. The screens are comprised of thousands of angled pieces of metal, reflecting light back at viewers, and making it difficult too look through. This system allowed for the striking full height windows without the invasion of privacy. At night, these screens become almost like lighting elements for the public
The Agar steps rise at the south of the building and continue around to the east. This high vantage point provides angles where the public could see into east facingsopositionedwereskylightsThesethrough.towindowsing‘slits’signedwereskylightsThus,skylights.thede-asallow-smallviewalsothat light hits a surface themselves.therathersurfacediffusingtobewouldtheit.diffusingfirst,Thuspubiconlyableseethethanfamily
Having such a prominent space adjacent to the building allowed specific views to be framed, giving the family snapshots of stunning architecture. Other views of interest included views west towards Barangaroo and along Kent street.
FRAMING VIEWS
space. Internal curtains distort the silhouettes of the family while light escapes through the lantern like Thescreens.option was given to the client to give the screen an adjustable opacity by rotating the pieces of metal further. However, this was declined by the client as they felt they it would use valuable electricity and also cost too much.
AGAR STEPS
The brief was specific sqmapprox.dencemainsqmapprox.roomsnumberrequiredandaofwith100fortheresi-and60forthe 65dencemainsqmroomsadditionalrequiredeverythingprovides‘Acute’within105fortheresi-andsqmfor
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CONTENT.
By minimising circulation space, and utilising spaces for multiple purposes, luxurious living can be achieved in a small space. Both aenteredresidencesecondarydoor.athroughtoaccessedthenresidenceThearemailboxescom’swherespace‘lobby’.outopenstion,connec-backtheterdencesresi-en-throughset-glasswhichintoaThisisinter-andlocated.mainiseasilytherightglassTheisviapassage space.publicviaaccessedentranceincourtyardthereason,sometionaisiftoresidencetheinstalledhasentranceAcourtyard.thethroughinternalsecondarybeeninsmallerbeusedthefamilyhavingfunc-orforothersharedisuse.Thisistheopen hydraulicasdimensionsisresidencethelocatedvoidhouse.signthebuilthasAdaptationbeenintode-oftheThespaceinsmallerthesameasmall elevator. The bridge can be comeentsgrandpar-ityaccessibil-increasedinstalledtordoorandremoved,adualeleva-canbeforasthebe-older. sqm for the smaller resi dence. the smaller residence.
6 7 8 11 12 13 1614 15 9 10 z5205228 23. GROUND FLOOR 1. Pump/water tank room 2. Powder room 3. 4.DiningStudio Room 5. Laundry 6. Kitchen 7. Pantry 8. Living room 9. 10.CourtyardFoyer 11. Living room 12. Kitchen 13. Dining/studio 14. Internal garden 15. Laundry 16. Powder room 1 3 2 4 5 B C A
FIRST FLOOR 17. Bedroom 18. Bedroom 19. 21.20.BathroomMasterbedroomEn-suite 22. Master bedroom 23. En-suite 24. Library WATCH PLAN FLYTHROUGH 17 19 18 20 21 22 23 24 B C A
Laundary2.5 x 1.12.7
Lounge room4.0 x 3.714.8
Circulation4.0 x 1.24.8
Kitchen2.2 x 4.08.8
ROOMDIMENSIONS (m) AREA (m2)
Dining4.5 x 3.214.4
Lounge room5.4 x 4.021.6
Master Bedroom3.1 x 4.012.4
Kitchen/Laundary2.2 x 4.710.4
Total65.78
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WEST SECTION C
Bathroom1.8 x 2.74.8
ROOMDIMENSIONS (m) AREA (m2)
Library/Studio2.2 x 2.75.9
Powder Room1.3 x 1.41.8
Library/Studio2.8 x 2.57
Bedroom (x2)3.0 x 2.615.6
Ensuite3.2 x 1.23.84
Dining3.9 x 2.710.5
Master Bedroom4.0 x 3.313.2
Main ResidenceSecondary Residence
roomgiveverticaltractionsandExpansionsstairtwospacesmultipletionship,verticalahousewithinSpacesthehaveuniquerela-withloftandspiralcases.con-ofspaceeachadiffer- ent aandfeeling,createdefiningcirculatingexperience.Spacesareshownwiththereintend-eduse.
Circulation (x2)5.0 x 1.212
Ensuite1.9 x 2.84.7
Total105.8
Bathroom1.8 x 1.32.34
26. z5205228 SOUTH SECTION A
WATCH SECTIONzz5205228FLYTHROUGH27.5 SOUTH SECTION B
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ther into the kitchen, the ceiling lowers to line.acutefispacesexitingvoids,intospirallingesupstairsEnteringtheexpandingrecedes,ceilingroom,thenallyservices.spaceprovideforFi-enteringlivingtheagainspace.thespac-requireupthetallbeforeintode-nedbytheroof
The Experience of Circulation is a Combination of Defining Moments
throughMoving the terraces, Movingexperience.enteringingwards,shootstheFromdiningyardtheleadsspaceside-outside’islobbyTheofimpressiongivingisentrancethesetback,theprivacy.openspacealight‘in-whichintocourt-andtheroom.here,ceilingup-creat-athrillingfur-
z5205228 29. ence.ingoverwhelm-providesvisible,housethethisroom.ofheighttheenteringlobbyfromcourtyardacrosstraversingrequiresresidencetheEnteringsmallerthetheandintodoublespacethelivingFromposition,wholeisandanexperi- The diningthedownallowstheFromintoofimpressiongivingthethecolumnwithjuxtaposedthecornerthetheEnteringtothesimilarremainroundingssur-untiltransitionupstairs.stairsatdarkestofhouseisthelightatendofstairs,theascendinglight.hereloftspaceviewsintolivingandroom.
Another issue is our modern reliance on electricity and a means of renewably sourcing this power. Solar panels or tiles are an effective option is Australia due to its high energy UV radiation.
CLIMATE ANALYSIS.
This low carbon home utilises a number of systems to minimise its impact on the environment during construction, and throughout its lifetime.
During construction, the minimisation of waste, and materials is key. Thus, the use of prefabricated components such as pre-cast concrete and recycled materials is necessary in an effort to reduce the structure’s carbon footprint.
In Australia, one of the biggest challenges is maintaining a constant ‘comfortable’ internal temperature with minimal heat/cooling. This can be achieved by intuitively placed openings to control thermal gain and ventilation.
Note: Shadow Diagrams for the whole site can be found on page 39
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Lastly, although the house is low carbon, a means of living a low carbon lifestyle is also facilitated. A large internal garden/ courtyard can be utilised as a vegetable garden in combination with the community garden in the urban square.
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Morning Sun: Thermal gain in winter and a natural way to wake up
Vertical Ventilation: The most effective means of ventilating a building
WATCH VENTILATION SIMULATION 32. z5205228
12PM Sun Eye View on the Winter Solstice
4. An internal garden also increases thermal gain, but can also provide cooling when used as ventilation. The top of the void is screened to prevent debris entering.
3PM Sun Eye View on the Winter Solstice
12PM Sun Eye View on the Summer Solstice
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6. Full height ‘window screen’ systems on the south also help to maintain the buildings temperature. During summer, the vents located between floors can be opened, allowing further ventilation and minimised direct afternoon light. During winter, the gap between the screen and the building can be closed at the roof line, creating an enclosed space to trap warm air.
7. Polished concrete floor using recycled aggregate will be used to reduce the impact of the building on the environment as well as thermally stabilising the building.
1. A large water tank and pump powered by solar power will circulate water through the house and public space. Due to its mixed use, it is located at the front of the house where it can be accessed without entering the property and require minimal piping/wiring to operate. It’s size will increase its efficiency and reduce the proportional losses due to evaporation, leaks & verticalallowcaninallow3.intotileselectricity,thepanelssimilarsell.whichtheforduceThesewillusageair-conditioning,theflbuildingstheapproximatelywill2.pumping).the(weighttransportationofthewaterintankwillassistinA‘TeslaSolarRoof’beinstalledonhalfofroof.Duetothemildthermaluctuationsandthusredundancyofpowerforthebuildingberelativelylow.tileswillpro-enoughpowerthehousetobe‘offgrid’,withexcessthefamilycanThesetilesareapricetosolarwhichproducesameamountofhowevertheseamlesslyblendthesurroundings.Eastfacingskylightsforthermalgainthemorning,andalsobeopenedtofastandeffectiveventilation.
5. Using recycled aggregate, thick concrete walls to the south will slow heat loss to the cooler side of the building. Due to its low heat conductivity but high specific heat capacity , concrete remains one of the best materials to maintaining a buildings temperature.
9AM Sun Eye View on the Winter Solstice
lotironcorrugatedrenderreflgy.thermalabsorbquicklyheatmetalandsolarTheleft.seenwhichdifferentlyabsorbreflthematerialsalternatingwarmth.electricityilyvideswhichwavestromagneticinfraredhouseyear,theThroughoutdayandtheabsorbselec-(heat)pro-thefam-withbothandTheofbuildingectandlightcanbetotheblacktiledroofblackscreenupquiteandalotofener-Thewhiteectiveandreflectaofenergy. ing
possible.themuchmaintainandevaporationisenergy.lesssignifihousesouthwaterdentItmonths.thewarmtotheheatsystem.theimportantbuildingfacadetheenergyconducttheThethethroughoutdistributedheatensurespatternthatisevenlyhouse.abilityforscreenstoheatdownsouthernoftheisforscreenThisallowshouseremainduringcolderisalsoevi-thatthetotheofthereceivescantlythermalThisthereducethus,aswaterinsystemas 50 Degrees +50 + 40 5030 - 4020 - 30Thermal energy in ThermalSummerenergy in Winter Thermal energy 9am year Thermalroundenergy 12pm year Thermalroundenergy 3pm year round 34. z5205228
The alternat-
Metal chain-link screening are made from recycled metal, and have a high thermal conductivity to aid in the screening system.
Material Schedule Schedule
White ColourBond Coolmax roof sheeting will be used to reflect solar energy. This will redirect energy back into the solar tiles, but also reduce the temperature of the building during summer
Summer Screen SystemSummer Screen
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In theinsulationtainingwhilehouselyairThishousekeepswhichtoitstatictoandmetallowshouse.ofingisscreentopInsignifitemperatureducesings)quietkeeppassivetheattheheatandcoolsbelow.fromfacingovermovetoCapillaryPrinciplethesystemthesummer,screenusesBernoulli’sandactionconstantlycoolairthesouthwindowsthepondsThisthehousedrawsawayviaopeningthepeakofscreen.Thissystemthehouse(noopen-butstillre-itsoverallcantly.winter,theventofthesystemclosed,slow-theflowairneartheThisal-thewarmscreenhouseitselfheatuptheairaround(similareffectawetsuit)intern,thewarm.blanketofalsopassive-warmstheinwintermain-noisefrompark.
Double glazed windows will be used to provide thermal and sound insulation on the large south facing windows.
Tesla Solar Roof is a low carbon solar power solution. On the acute angle roofs, these solar panels will capture direct sunlight throughout the entire day.
Winter Screen SystemWinter Screen System
White reflective render redirects solar energy into areas of the house which require thermal gain.
Low Carbon concrete (ENVISIA) allows less concrete to achieve the same performance. This concrete also uses recycled aggregate and has a high thermal capacity.
Using existing participateresidentstouristsforingwhileBarangarooviewsprovidesurbanstatus,lowmaintainstructureinfra-toacarbonthissquaretoprovid-activitieschildren,andtoin.
Public space aims to aid a wide range of people in their every day activities, form.iniouscateres,andhotels,tions,touristingThissurroundings.theblendingwhilstintonaturalsite,be-closetoattrac-schools,cafésresidenc-needstotovar-peopleacohesive
PUBLIC SPACE.
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CONCEPT.
of water and green space will regulate the squares micro-climate, creating a comfortable space to undertake the relevant activities. The extension of the cafés seating area also moves an existing regularly occurring crowd into the space.
Maintaining the themes of low carbon living, and a blend of heritage and modern architecture, this urban square is naturally formed in conjunction with the Agar steps. Moving the tiered platforms of the space to the south allows for people to be bathed in sunlight from the north, as well as reducing the noise and privacy issues for the neighbouring Theterrace.introduction
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The site is enteredhas‘boardheritagetheintoTakingAgarenterthusthetheneighbourandattractionswest.siteenterwhichpremisesresidentialadjacentlocatedtowouldthefromtheTouristschoolssitetoeast,andwouldviathesteps.thisaccount,touristwalk’tobefrom the theentrancethuslongerallowsaries.thethenpark,throughpeopleoverThisSteps.theenteredgardencommunityresidentswhilewest,theisfromAgarcrossguidestheratherjusttobound-Italsoforaandgrandertopark.
Alignment with Agar steps, matching the levels at two platforms. Water introduced near the terrace.
Addition of ‘activities’ to give the park a purpose and reason for people to visit.
Space relocated to the south to increase solar access and move people away from the terrace
z5205228 39. house.16mcomessingleThuswindows.southandtofipeoplewithprivacythedoneforms.raisedspacethethroughoutcontrolledisCirculationtobepublicviaplat-Thisistolimitnoiseandissueshavingtraf-ckingclosethehouseitslargefacingonlyapathwithinofthe The concept.theconsolidatingings,surround-itsthealsospacethewalkpeopleencouragesthesespace.circulationotherstepsAgaristhemainUsingstepstothroughpublicbutlinksparktoheritagefurtheroriginal
Given site with a self imposed height limit of 9m as to not overshadow surrounding buildings
Articulation of forms to match the terrace houses acute angles. Renovation of existing toilet.
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Within the park, the aim was to facilitate a wide range of activities within a cohesive package. This included 3 main groups of visitors: relax.toalsoadjacentanCentrallyaspace,circulatecouragingaroundgroupActivitiesvisitors.childrenresidents,andtourists/foreacharelocatedthepark,en-peopletothewholeratherthenvisitpointandleave.locatedisextensionofthecafe,butitservesasaspacesit,talk,studyand CONTENT.
B z5205228 41. GROUND FLOOR 1. Terrace House 2. Heritage board walk 3. Water park 4. Toilet block 5. Grass terrain park 6. Cafe 7. Agar Steps 8. Relaxing Pods 9. Bike Parking 1 2 4 5 3 6 7 8 A 9
FIRST FLOOR 1. Terrace house 7. Agar Steps 10. Community garden/viewing platform 7 10 B A 42. z5205228 1
THE USE OF TIERS
A portionlarge of the ofmadeplatformupperisupascreen with deciduous shadeallowsovergrowingvinesit.Thistheto adapt with the lightmorningtingsons,sea-let-moreinto the summer.lesswinterduringspacecafetheandinthetiered steps,trplatformselatedirectlyotheAgarthey also provide shade and a surface to hang objects off. A large portion of the upper platform is made up of a screen uous vines sallovergrowingit.Thisowsthehadeto with lmtsonssea-,let-ingmoreorningightinto cafe durinspaceg the winter and less in the summer.
z5205228 43.
Not only do the steps,torelateplatformstiereddirectlytheAgarthey also off.hangashadeprovideandsurfacetoobjects
SOUTH SECTION B
WEST ELEVATION 44. z5205228
z5205228 45.
46. z5205228 TOURISTS. Tourists, coming from Observatory Hill or Barangaroo are invited into the park via Agar steps. needed.thetouristterrainwalklayout.tionateventuallyareaneyvisitorSignagepondsprovideditageAdditionally,theamenitiestopeopleGenerally,mightwantutilisetheparkssuchastoiletorcafe.aher-board-walkisovertheand‘debris’.bringsaonajour-throughtheanditshistory,endingtheconstruc-ofthiscurrentTheshortfinishesinthepark,givingaccesstorelaxingpodsif
Children from the nearby school and pre-school are also invited into the space via the Agar steps. The grass terrain park and water park are tailored
thepods,usemorechildrenwetwhoientandmakesnotwithforparkaround.toingyoungertowardskids,giv-themaplaceexploreandrunThewaterisdesignedchildrentoplaywaterandinwater.Thisitasafermoreconven-toparentsdon’twantchildren.Oldermightbeinclinedtotherelaxingortostudyatcafe.
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RESIDENTS.
CHILDREN.
Residents of the area often use the existing cafe, and thus its extension further enhances their experience, and also provides a larger seating area. Additionally, residents have access to the community garden, which is a culmination of vegetables, flowers and herbs for residents. The residents can use and continue to grow these plants, adding to the sites low carbon qualities. This and other play areas are also available for residents children to use and learn the impacts of low carbon living and gardening.
WEST SECTION A
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in the form of the asture,rockognisablerec-tex-aswellscreens.
Consistency of design Acute mimickinglicthethroughoutcontinueanglespub-space, the thethroughoutconstantalsoMaterialityterrace.remainspace in the asturerocognisablerecktex,aswellscreens. of angles mlthethroughoutcontinuepubicspace,imicking thethroughoutcoaMaterialityterrace.lsoremainnstantspace
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The public space, as well as being a useful urban square, is an exhibition in low carbon architecture. Various systems and careful planning have allowed for the park to be sustainably built and used.
Sustainable materials are also used throughout the site, recycling aggregate to form the pre-cast slabs of the tiered platforms and dirt excavated in digging the ponds is used to elevate the land to the south.
Lastly, ponds help regulate the micro-climate of the park, encouraging local wildlife to use the space.
CLIMATE ANALYSIS.
Careful placement of the stacked platform system means that no additional electric shade structures or other mechanisms are necessary. The placement of these tiers also gives the communal garden as much sunlight as possible to grow energy intensive fruit and vegetables which residents can not do in their darker private open spaces.
DIAGRAMS.SHADOW
The inclusion of a communal garden encourages sustainable living in nearby residences, and also gives children the opportunity to learn about gardening in a fun and playful environment.
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9AM Winter
9AM Summer
12PM Summer3PM Summer
12PM Winter
3PM Winter
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3PM Winter 3PM Summer Winter asspeedsscapetheasafternoons,hotwillSomerelativelythelandscape,surroundingintosubmergedBeingthesiteisstill.breezebefeltonsummerwindhugsland-andupitmoves down the cliff. Street.westfromthewindwinter,theoftheextendingafternoons,hottheeffectThiscoolsparkonsummerperioduseforspace.InsomeentersparktheviaHigh
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Trees planted along the east facade of the park will absorb most of the winter winds largeduecafeenteringespeciallyenergy,theseatingtothefigtree.
z5205228 53. The community garden is located in an area Round4.3.on2.mary,parsley,1.community.tainedandcompletionatbeplantslight.lotreceiveswhichaofsun-Thesewillplantedtheparksmain-bytheFlatleafRose-ThymeMeyerlem-treeMintTomatoes,beans These house.Millersofbacksurvivegenerallyandofrequireandvegetablesfruit,herbsalotsunlight,wouldnotintheyardsthetypicalPoint 1 2 3 4
mance, formancesystemsmodelling,Throughysis.andvegetationmateriality,placementvolumetricanal-physicalgutteringandsolarper-wastested. 54. z5205228MODELS.
Modelling is an important communication and experimentation tool used by architects. Throughout the design process, these models were tested in four different ways to question concepts, show ideas and study internal spaces. Two of these used digital mediums, whilst two physical models were constructed and anaPropertieslysed. tested through Digital means include: views, solar/shadow perfor-
Astaken.seen
Based on this analysis, plants which prefer all round sun will be planted in these areas.
12PM shadow simulation on communal garden (winter)
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Using this site model, original massing model and specific sun positions, solar analysis was under-
3PM shadow simulation on communal garden (winter)
9AM shadow simulation on communal garden (winter)
in the images, the platform is raised off the ground enough to receive light throughout the day on the winter solstice. Thus, it will receive light throughout the entire year.
12PM shadow simulation on communal garden (summer)
The communal garden is an area which needs sunlight, not just to create a better atmosphere, but to allow plants to grow. This area has been modelled in detail at 1:200 so it can fit within the site model.
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water One to test The proposed idea worked perfectly, using a shallow slope minimise the inter ference of the fsoutmodernhernacade, to in the cavity between the screen and Twindows.hesecan the downpipes in this model are lproportionallyargerthenthe modelscale.oofhiproportionallygherstrengthwatertensionnthissmallThus,thisproves
PHYSICAL RUNOFF ANALYSIS will watercirculateinto
To aredownpipesfacade,southerntheferencetheminimiseinter-ofmodernproposed to be placed in the intothenThesewindows.screenbetweencavitytheandcanemptythe
nearby ponds which watercirculatewillinto the house’s water tank. wascatchmentOnemodelled
at 1:50 to test this idea. towardsofshallowfectly,workedproposedTheideaper-usingaslopetheroofthe
Althoughsouth. accountsreallargerproportionallythisdownpipestheinmodelarethentheones,thisforthe ofthemodelscale.onofhigherproportionallystrengthwatertensionthissmallThus,thisproveseffectivenessthissystem.
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CONCEPT 1 CONCEPT 2 58. z5205228
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CONCEPT
1:200 Massing models were constructed to question the five initial design concepts. These were tested the solar performance if each building but also their connection to the landscape.surroundingTheexist-
ing trees on the site are shown to scale and are glued to the base. This means that all designed tested did not impact the surrounding vegetation, allowing the area to reduce its carbon footprint.
CONCEPT 4 60. z5205228
CONCEPT 4 z5205228 61.
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WATCH ROOF CONSTRUCTION
A 1:200 massing model of the terrace was constructed to help visualise the structure in the site. Using the materiality conceptualised for the design, the model gives a good form.understandingtheralsowithtoronment.surroundingingaboutunderstandinghowthisbuild-willlookwithintheenvi-Beingablephysicallyinteractthestructureallowsforfur-questioningandofthePhysicallybuild-
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ing the model also give an insight into the buildability of the building, highlighting what segments are the hardest to construct. Through this exercise, it is easy to see that the roof of the building is difficult to construct. With 18 different faces, shallow slope, guttering system and solar tiles, this would prove to be difficult during construction and would have to be thoroughly planned.
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The render above was created to analyse the terraces.thebetweenconnection‘Acute’andneighbouring
Analysis.MaterialityDigital
Using a combination of Google Sketch-up and Lumion, photo realistic renders can give a good impression of materiality and the throughoutdoneThesesurroundings.relationshipbuildingswithitsrenderswereiterativelythe
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design process to constantly question choices and ideas.
Looking south west towards grass cafe/heritage walk
Smaller residence entrance
West Spiral Staircase Skylight detail in smaller residence
Analysis.MaterialityDigital 66. z5205228
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Looking into the main residence from the foyer
Looking North - East from Kent Street
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Looking south towards grass terrain park/cafe
Looking north along the heritage boardwalk
Sectional South Perspective Google Sketch-up Detailed Model . 70. z5205228
When first transferring ideas from sketch paper into the digital world, sketch-up is one of the most useful spatial tools.
Acute is a delicate mix of conceptual design, practicality and beauty which aims to provide an environment which improves its surroundings in all areas. ithowever,plemulti-throughformedhasstructureandareprinciplesdesignoutThrough-Acute,strongtheper-welltests,isstill early in scheme.Acute’sallytowelcomedchangementsImprove-conception.itsandarecontinu-improve
First, floor plans and rough sections are transferred from sketches into AutoCAD where they are given accurate dimensions and revised further. These floor plans are then imported into sketch-up to undergo spatial analysis.
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Lastly,thicknesses.thismodel links directly to Lumion and ArchiDynamics, updating a rendered environment as the model is changed and altering the wind simulations and modelling progressed.
In constructing a 3D model, vertical relationships are further explored whilst complicated junctions can be assessed. During this conceptual phase, this model changes daily, moving from paper, to AutoCAD into Oncesketch-up.iterations have finished, this model can be questioned and analysed. The site can be tagged
FINAL REMARKS
Sketch-up Model
This model can also be cut at will, exposing sections which examine vertical relationships and wall/slab
with a geo-location and the north direction indicated. From here, accurate shadow diagrams, solar eye views and other overlooking issues can be assessed.
Selig benjaminselig.comz5205228
AUTC*E
Benjamin