ASSESSMENT
Introduction
Urban intervention, a multidimensional approach to urban development, includes a wide range of tactics and projects aimed at revitalizing cities and creating inclusive and sustainable communities. Urban interventions aim to solve important challenges such as social inequality, environmental deterioration, and economic stagnation while also improving the general quality of urban life. Through purposeful and strategic involvement in urban environments, stakeholders hope to encourage social engagement, cultural exchange, and community empowerment, resulting in dynamic and resilient cities for current and future generations.
Adaptive reuse plays an important role in urban intervention, providing a long-term solution to urban development difficulties. Robiglio (2016) emphasizes the need of reusing industrial legacies for innovation and growth. This technique entails altering existing structures to fit changing needs, reducing urban expansion, and promoting sustainability. Merlino (2014) emphasizes the environmental and cultural significance of older buildings, arguing for their reuse to protect heritage and minimize carbon emissions. Reevaluating historic buildings enables stakeholders to capitalize on their character and history, resulting in lively and culturally diverse urban areas.
Weiss (2009) investigates adaptive reuse's significance in regenerating industrial districts by reusing outmoded sites for modern applications. Klanten and Hübner (2010) highlight urban interventions as personal projects that enable individuals to artistically modify public areas while also encouraging community involvement and ownership in urban development. Fuller and Moore (2017) examine Jane Jacobs' theories about community involvement in the creation of vibrant communities. Parnell and Oldfield (2014) investigate difficulties and opportunities in Global South cities, providing insights into socioeconomic and environmental dynamics. Understanding these viewpoints allows for more effective urban intervention in cities that are equitable, resilient, and sustainable.
To further understand this, Let's explore further by examining three significant precedents categorized as Architectural Intervention reuse, Architectural Extension, and Architectural reprogramming -
Architecture Intervention Reuse - Kingway Brewery Renovation, Urbanus:
Urbanus' rehabilitation of the Kingway Brewery smoothly mixes modern design and historical preservation, renewing the site's industrial character with the revolutionary notion of "making on-site." It represents Shenzhen's industrial past and urban life, striking a healthy balance between modern design features and valued industrial artifacts. This restoration project exemplifies architecture's transformative power, connecting the past and present to create a colorful tapestry of urban life and cultural legacy.
Urban intervention entails taking purposeful steps to improve existing urban spaces, buildings, or infrastructure, addressing specific difficulties or possibilities to revitalize underserved areas and promote social inclusion.
Architecture Reprogrammed Buildings - The Tate Modern, Herzog & de Meuron:
Herzog and de Meuron's refurbishment of the Tate Modern shows architectural intervention's transformative ability by repurposing industrial spaces for contemporary artistic expression. They transformed the turbine hall into a large public plaza, blending size with dynamic movement and peace. Olafur Eliasson's installation "The Weather Project" demonstrates this spatial arrangement by conveying awe with light and space. Furthermore, the 2012 extension expanded the museum's capacity by smoothly integrating new structures while maintaining its industrial essence.
Reprogrammed buildings, such as the Tate Modern, adapt existing structures to fulfill new uses, regenerating cities while still maintaining architectural legacy. This procedure include reevaluating a building's functionality and changing its layout, systems, and facilities to meet contemporary needs.
Architecture Extension - Higgins Hall, Pratt Institute, Steven Holl Architect:
The Higgins Hall Center Section seamlessly merges modern architecture with historical context, drawing inspiration from neighboring landmarks to create an elegant "H" plan. The glass insertion symbolizes the transition between past and present, fostering spatial dynamism within the School of Architecture. This project underscores the importance of flexibility in space planning and the art of connecting architectural elements.
Extension in urban architecture involves adding new structures to existing buildings or urban fabric, preserving historical integrity while accommodating modern needs. Steven Holl Architect's Higgins Hall Center Section exemplifies architectural extension by integrating contemporary elements with existing structures, enhancing functionality while honoring historical context.
1. Kingway Brewery Renovation, Urbanus:
- Question: How can intervention projects effectively balance historical preservation with contemporary design to revitalize urban areas?
- Proposition: The incorporation of historical aspects into contemporary architecture and incorporating connectivity can revitalize urban areas.
2. Tate Modern, Herzog and de Meuron:
- Question: What tactics may be used to transform industrial buildings into modern cultural hotspots while retaining their historical identity?
- Proposition: The flexible reuse of industrial structures increases cultural institutions' capacity and relevance.
3. Higgins Hall, Pratt Institute, Architect: Steven Holl.
- Question: How can architectural extensions effectively incorporate new interventions with historical structures to improve functioning while preserving urban heritage?
- Proposition: Architectural extensions effortlessly integrate new spaces and functions along with existing structures, enhancing urban surroundings.
References:
-Robiglio, M. 2016. "The Approach of Adaptive Reuse." In *The Adaptive Reuse Toolkit: How Cities Can Turn their Industrial Legacy into Infrastructure for Innovation and Growth*, 12–23. German Marshall Fund of the United States. http://www.jstor.org/stable/resrep19022.6.
- Merlino, K. R. 2014. "[Re]Evaluating Significance: The Environmental and Cultural Value in Older and Historic Buildings." *The Public Historian* 36 (3): 70–85. https://doi.org/10.1525/tph.2014.36.3.70.
- Weiss, S. 2009. "Specters of Industry: Adaptive Reuse in Paris as Industrial Patrimony." *Journal of Architectural Education (1984-)* 63 (1): 136–140. http://www.jstor.org/stable/40481010.
- Klanten, Robert, and Matthias Hübner. 2010. *Urban Interventions: Personal Projects in Public Spaces.*
- Fuller, Martin, and Ryan Moore. 2017. *An Analysis of Jane Jacobs's The Death and Life of Great American Cities.* Macat Library.
- Parnell, Susan, and Sophie Oldfield, eds. 2014. *The Routledge Handbook on Cities of the Global South.* London: Routledge.
SRD755- Architecture Research: Masterclass preparation
Interventional Reuses
Kingway Brewery Renovation, Urbanus
URBANUS's restoration project of the Kingway Brewery is a prime example of imaginative urban intervention, skillfully combining modern architectural innovation with historical preservation. Its fundamental idea is the groundbreaking practice of "making on-site," a method that goes beyond simple physical remodeling to revitalize the industrial site's spirit and essence.
The story of the architecture is told as an intricate dance between the old and the new, with modern design features paired with cherished artifacts from Shenzhen's industrial past. Modern functions are expertly combined with original industrial elements to create a richly varied interior that perfectly captures the energy of the city.
Every facet of the brewery's makeover demonstrates a close attention to detail and a deep comprehension of the larger picture. Every architectural choice is deeply rooted in purpose and vision, ranging from the deliberate integration of modern facilities to the adaptive reuse of pre-existing structures.
This transformation has far-reaching effects that go well beyond the preservation of historical relics and usher in a new period of cultural revival. In addition to serving as a reminder of Shenzhen's industrial heritage, the refurbished brewery also serves as a symbol of urban life and cross-cultural exchange in the fast changing cityscape.
Essentially, the Kingway Brewery restoration project is evidence of the architectural medium's ability to transform, as the past is skillfully interwoven into the present to provide a lively tapestry of urban life and cultural history.
Designboom. Retrieved from https://www.designboom.com/architecture/ urbanus-renovates-brewery-into-an-urbanistic-cultural-stage-in-shenzhen-01-28-2022/) SRD755-
Cultural Activation
-Transformation of the brewery into a vibrant cultural hub.
-Hosting of art exhibitions, events, and creative activities to enrich the local cultural scene.
Connectivity
- The incorporation of the elevated pathway was a great strategy to make the whole scattered site to become one connected space.
Figure 02: View of the Urban Space (Source: "Kingway Brewery Renovation / URBANUS" 22 Mar 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed 22 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/998283/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus> ISSN 0719-8884) Figure 03: View of the Elevated pathway (Source: "Kingway Brewery Renovation / URBANUS" 22 Mar 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed 22 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/998283/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus> ISSN 0719-8884)Kingway Brewery Renovation, Urbanus
A Monument to Shenzhen's Industrial Intervention
The ancient Kingway Brewery building exemplifies the inventive spirit that defined Shenzhen's early development and remains as a tribute to the pioneering industrialization of the city. It is a sobering reminder of how Shenzhen has evolved from an industry frontier to an innovation metropolis on a worldwide scale.
With the new intervention, the site is revitalized and becomes a vibrant cultural platform that honors the city's past and looks forward to its future.
Diagram 02: New Interventions within the SiteKingway Brewery Renovation, Urbanus Overview of the Interventioned Spaces
The renovated Kingway Brewery provides a multipurpose venue for a variety of activities while encouraging social contact and cultural participation via intelligent architectural design.
Diagram 03: The functional Usage Overview of the Spaces
Figure 06: View of the public space under Building C (Source: IQD. (2022). Retrieved from https://iqd.it/en/architecture/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus/)
Figure 07: Space Under the Silos (Source: IQD. (2022). Retrieved from https://iqd.it/en/architecture/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus/)
The elevated promenade functions as both a practical route for movement and a distinctive observation deck, providing visitors with an outstanding vantage point to fully experience the panoramic views of the site's surrounds. Strategically placed within the architectural design, it improves the experiential journey by offering unobstructed views and immersive perspectives of the renovated industrial legacy contrasting with the metropolitan scenery.
Diagram 04: Elevated pathway Figure 08: View of the elevated pathway (Source: "Kingway Brewery Renovation / URBANUS" 22 Mar 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed 22 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/998283/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus> ISSN 0719-8884) Figure 09: View of the elevated pathway (Source: "Kingway Brewery Renovation / URBANUS" 22 Mar 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed 22 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/998283/king- Diagram 04: Elevated PathwayKingway Brewery Renovation, Urbanus
Overview of Interventioned Spaces
Building B skillfully merges exhibition areas with themed gardens, effortlessly blending cultural exhibits with natural surroundings. The architecture of the space promotes a comprehensive and unified experience by combining architectural components with carefully selected natural areas.
Building A- Vista Tower functions as an observation tower and a prominent feature of Mnemosyne, providing extensive views of the surrounding region.
Diagram 05: View of Building A and B
Figure 10: View of the Vista Tower(Source: "Kingway Brewery Renovation / URBANUS" 22 Mar 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed 22 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/998283/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus> ISSN 0719-8884)
Figure 11: View of the Building B (Source: "Kingway Brewery Renovation / URBANUS" 22 Mar 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed 22 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/998283/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus> ISSN 0719-8884)
The circular ramp at Kingsway brewing is sleek and modern, effortlessly connecting buildings B and C while providing tourists with a picturesque approach across the brewing complex.
Building C at Kingsway Brewery features a contemporary design while displaying its industrial heritage through rehabilitation. A distinctive casted aluminum tower above the aeration tank provides a vibrant visual element to the brewery's skyline.
Figure 12: View of the Circular Ramp (Source: "Kingway Brewery Renovation / URBANUS" 22 Mar 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed 22 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/998283/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus> ISSN 0719-8884) Figure 13: View of the Building C (Source: "Kingway Brewery Renovation / URBANUS" 22 Mar 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed 22 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/998283/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus> ISSN 0719-8884) Diagram 06: View of Circular Ramp and Buiding CKingway Brewery Renovation, Urbanus
Overview of Interventioned Spaces
Architecture:
-Removal of tiles and suspended ceilings, unveiling concrete structures.
-Retains industrial atmosphere with restored inverted conical tanks.
-Introduction of natural light from above for exhibitions
-Adaptation for open-air theater space, integrating natural light.and performances.
-D1 transformed into a multi-functional auditorium.
-Addition of a two-story exhibition hall on the roof.
-Preservation of tanks and pipelines in D2/D3, converted into a bustling bar.
-Removal of three tanks on the roof of D4 to create space for an open-air theater surrounded by high silos.
-D4 Preserves industrial aesthetic with concrete structures and repurposed tanks as a portal to Building E's rooftop
Figure 14: View of Building D1 ( source: ilia, e. ( 2022, january 28). Designboom. Retrieved from https://www.designboom.com/architecture/urbanus-renovates-brewery-into-an-urbanistic-cultural-stage-in-shenzhen-01-28-2022/)
Figure 15: Aerial View of the Building D1 to Silos ( source: ilia, e. ( 2022, january 28). Designboom. Retrieved from https://www.designboom.com/architecture/urbanus-renovates-brewery-into-an-urbanistic-cultural-stage-in-shenzhen-01-28-2022/)
Diagram 07: View of Building D
1. Dynamic Exhibition Space: Transformed from traditional brewery to a modern showcase.
2. Adaptable Layouts: Flexible design allows seamless transitions between exhibits and events.
3. Industrial Charm: Retained original brewery architecture adds character to the space.
4. Functional Aesthetics
5. Interactive Features
6. Community Hub: Space facilitates workshops, lectures, and tasting sessions for community engagement.
7. Sustainability Focus
Figure 16: Removal of a Silo (Source: ilia, e. ( 2022, january 28). Designboom. Retrieved from https://www.designboom.com/architecture/urbanus-renovates-brewery-into-an-urbanistic-cultural-stage-in-shenzhen-01-28-2022/) Figure 17: Exhibition Space under the silos (Source: "Kingway Brewery Renovation / URBANUS" 22 Mar 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed 22 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/998283/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus> ISSN 0719-8884) Diagram 08: Building D - Interior SpaceKingway Brewery Renovation, Urbanus Overview
1. Concrete is used for structural integrity and industrial aesthetics, with exposed aggregate and polished surfaces.
2. Steel: Used for structural support and architectural detailing; left exposed for a raw industrial look.
3. Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, used in cladding and decorative features for contrast.
4. Glass: Provides transparency and natural light, with wide windows and skylights that increase spatial openness.
5. Brick: Handcrafted bricks provide warmth and texture to homes, enhancing the industrial look.
6. Sustainability: Prioritizes recycled, low-emission, and locally sourced products.
Figure 18: View of Building C Aluminium Exterior ( source: ilia, e. ( 2022, january 28). Designboom. Retrieved from https://www.designboom.com/architecture/urbanus-renovates-brewery-into-an-urbanistic-cultural-stage-in-shenzhen-01-28-2022/)
Figure 19: Space under the Circular Ramp - Brick Wall( source: ilia, e. ( 2022, january 28). Designboom. Retrieved from https://www.designboom.com/architecture/urbanus-renovates-brewery-into-an-urbanistic-cultural-stage-in-shenzhen-01-28-2022/)
Diagram 09: Material Overview
The Kingway Brewery renovation strategically places windows, skylights, and observation decks to optimize natural light, offer panoramic views of the surroundings, and foster connectivity with nature. Visual transparency blurs indoor-outdoor boundaries, while privacy considerations balance openness with seclusion, enhancing the overall spatial experience.
Figure 20: Viewing opeining of Vista Tower (Source: "Kingway Brewery Renovation / URBANUS" 22 Mar 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed 22 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/998283/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus> ISSN 0719-8884) Figure 21: Opening (Source: "Kingway Brewery Renovation / URBANUS" 22 Mar 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed 22 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/998283/kingway-brewery-renovation-urbanus> ISSN 0719-8884) Diagram 10: View & Vistas and Opening CharacteristicsReprogrammed Buildings
The Tate Modern, Herzog & de Meuron
The reprogramming of The Tate Modern's turbine hall demonstrates the transformative ability of architectural intervention in reusing industrial history for contemporary cultural purpose. Herzog & de Meuron's architectural concept brilliantly transforms the once-utilitarian space into a grand public plaza, balancing the hall's massive scale with dynamic movement and calm. This careful arrangement of spatial elements is exemplified by Olafur Eliasson's immersive installation "The Weather Project," which uses light and space to elicit awe and contemplation.
Furthermore, the extention of the oil tank building in 2012 significantly increased the museum's capacity by introducing new gallery spaces and public rooms for learning and production. Herzog & de Meuron's architectural approach effortlessly blends the new structures into the Tate Modern's existing fabric, increasing its cultural relevance while maintaining its industrial identity. The architects' holistic approach combines architectural intervention with cultural programming, enhancing the museum's reputation as a global icon of modern art.
Architects may learn from this project about striking the right balance between historical preservation and contemporary adaptation. The Tate Modern shows how industrial legacy may be used to fulfill the changing needs of cultural institutions while still recognizing their history. Embracing the intrinsic traits of historical structures and incorporating them into contemporary design can result in captivating architectural narratives that speak to both history and innovation.
<https://www.archdaily.com/429700/ad-classics-the-tate-modern-herzog-and-de-meuron> ISSN 0719-8884)
Flexible use of Existing Spaces
Striking Balance between the Old and New
The Kingsway Brewery concept exhibits an in-depth comprehension of architectural adaptation by making creative use of existing spaces within the turbine hall. This strategy allows for the smooth integration of modern services while conserving the ancient structure's inherent character.
Furthermore, the project strikes a fine balance between contemporary interventions and the brewery's industrial legacy, resulting in an architectural synthesis that harmonizes past narratives with current aspirations, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to heritage preservation and innovation.
The Tate Modern, Herzog & de Meuron
The Turbine Hall Overview
Diagram 02: Gallery Space of Turbine Hall
The turbine hall of The Tate Modern serves as a vast exhibition area, distinguished by its immense size and dynamic spatial characteristics.
The hall's new gallery rooms offer a variety of settings for displaying contemporary artworks, while the structure's industrial background is reflected in its raw materiality and physical volume.
Diagram 01: Space Usage Overview of Turbine Hall
Figure 25: Exhibition Space of the Turbine Hall (Source: Rennie Jones. "AD Classics: The Tate Modern / Herzog & de Meuron" 17 Sep 2013. ArchDaily. Accessed 26 Mar 2024. <https://www. archdaily.com/429700/ad-classics-the-tate-modern-herzog-and-de-meuron> ISSN 0719-8884)
Figure 26: Gallery spaces of the Turbine hall (Source: Rennie Jones. "AD Classics: The Tate Modern / Herzog & de Meuron" 17 Sep 2013. ArchDaily. Accessed 26 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/429700/ad-classics-the-tate-modern-herzog-and-de-meuron> ISSN 0719-8884)
Diagram 01: Space usage Overview of Turbine hall
Lighting solutions highlight the hall's architectural characteristics and improve the exhibition of artwork, resulting in an immersive and visually stimulating experience.
Steel Truss structures are used to support the spacious roof of the turbine hall. Columns and beams were used as well in the main structure.
Diagram 03: Lighting Characteristics of Turbine Hall Diagram 04: Structure of Turbine Hall Figure 27: Renovation work inside the Turbine Hall (Source:https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern/look-behind-art-tate-modern) Figure 28: Structural sketch View of the Tate Modern (Source:https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/ tate-modern/look-behind-art-tate-modern) Diagram 03: Lighting Characteristics of Turbine hall.The New Switch House - Outcome The Tate Modern, Herzog & de Meuron
The Switch House addition at The Tate Modern is a stunning architectural composition distinguished by its unique, irregular forms and rich craftsmanship. Its design philosophy questions conventional concepts of architectural rectilinearity, encouraging a dynamic interplay of light, shadow, and spatial volume. The Switch House's expressive expression distinguishes it as a distinctive addition to the museum's architectural ensemble, enabling visitors to interact with its sculptural presence and explore its novel space combinations.
Diagram 05: Evolution of New Switch House
Figure 29: Foundation of the Switch House - three oil tanks (Source: (2023, May 09). Retrieved from Archeyes|Timeless architecture: https://archeyes.com/the-tate-modern-herzog-de-meurons-contribution-to-londons-cultural-landscape/)
Figure 30: View of the Switch House (Source: Rennie Jones. "(2023, May 09). Retrieved from Archeyes|Timeless architecture: https://archeyes.com/the-tate-modern-herzog-de-meurons-contribution-to-londons-cultural-landscape/)
The irregular floor plan enables a variety of uses, including galleries, public spaces, and educational facilities, encouraging dynamic encounters between visitors and artworks. The building's vertical circulation is assisted by a central core and a visible ramp, which guide visitors around the various exhibition rooms while retaining fluid connectedness within the architectural composition.
Diagram 06: Functional Usage overview of the New Switch House Figure 31: Exhibition Space inside the New Switch House (Source:https://www.tate.org.uk/about-us/ projects/tate-modern-project/design) Figure 32: Space inside the New Switch House (Source:https://www.tate.org.uk/about-us/projects/ tate-modern-project/design) ` Diagram 06: Functional Usage Overview of the Switch House.The New Switch House - Overview The Tate Modern, Herzog & de Meuron
The ramp serves as an alternate circulation route, enriching the tourist experience by providing panoramic views of the surrounding buildings and landscape.
Vertical circulation within The Tate Modern's Switch House is facilitated through a central core, ensuring efficient movement between floors.
Diagram 07: Vertical Circulation of the New Switch House
Diagram 08: Core of the New Switch House
Figure 33: View of Stairs on the Upper floor (Source: Rennie Jones. "AD Classics: The Tate Modern / Herzog & de Meuron" 17 Sep 2013. ArchDaily. Accessed 26 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily. com/429700/ad-classics-the-tate-modern-herzog-and-de-meuron> ISSN 0719-8884)
Figure 34: Construction Phase (Source: Rennie Jones. "(2023, May 09). Retrieved from Archeyes|Timeless architecture: https://archeyes.com/the-tate-modern-herzog-de-meurons-contribution-to-londons-cultural-landscape/)
Diagram 07: Vertical Circulation of the New Switch House
The Tate Modern's Switch House addition uses strategic openings to maximize natural light ingress and visual connectedness. Porous materials distribute daylight, creating a brilliant mood and blurring the distinction between indoor and outdoor settings.
The building's structure is articulated using concrete, steel, and glass, representing a contemporary architectural language while complimenting the original power station's industrial look.
Diagram 09: Openings of the New Switch House Diagram 10: Materials of the New Switch House's facade. Figure 35: Openings of the New Switch house (Source: Rennie Jones. "(2023, May 09). Retrieved from Archeyes|Timeless architecture: https://archeyes.com/the-tate-modern-herzog-de-meu- Figure 36: Facade Brick Layout with window panels (Source:https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/ tate-modern/look-behind-art-tate-modern) Diagram 09: Openings of the New Switch HouseExtensions Higgins Hall, Pratt Institute, Steven Holl Architect
The Higgins Hall Center Section concept is a complex combination of historical setting and contemporary architectural intervention. The architects cleverly designed a "H" plan that smoothly blends old and new features, drawing influence from surrounding landmarked structures. The resulting glass insertion, highlighted by a "dissonant zone" at the entry, acts as a stark reminder of the passage between past and present. This planned juxtaposition not only serves as a focal point but also promotes spatial dynamism within the School of Architecture. This project teaches architects the value of flexibility in space planning as well as the art of connecting architectural pieces. The project emphasizes the need of balancing historical context with modern interventions, providing a nuanced approach to architectural preservation and innovation. Embracing this approach allows architects to build spaces that commemorate the past while simultaneously meeting the changing requirements of the present, promoting cooperation, creativity, and a profound feeling of place within the built environment. SRD755-
<https://www.archdaily.com/920948/pratt-institute-higgins-hall-insertion-steven-holl-architects>
Insertion / Steven Holl Architects" 14 Jul 2019. ArchDaily. Accessed 26 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/920948/pratt-institute-higgins-hall-insertion-steven-holl-architects> ISSN 0719-8884)
Planned Juxtaposition
The Higgins Hall Center Section project exemplifies the concept of "planned juxtaposition" by deliberately integrating historical surroundings with contemporary architectural components. The project uses rigorous design considerations to juxtapose classic architectural aspects with modern interventions, resulting in a dynamic interplay between the past and present.
Passage between Past and Present
A "passage between the past and present" is created by deliberate spatial sequencing and material selections, seamlessly integrating architectural narratives from several eras and generating a sense of continuity within the built environment.
Higgins Hall, Pratt Institute, Steven Holl Architect
Functional Overview
The basement accommodates a lecture hall, two classrooms and the lower lobby which is connected with the first floor by double height space.
The ground floor serves as the Leo Kuhn entrance/reception area, welcoming visitors with an inviting and accessible space that sets the tone for their experience within the building. This area acts as a hub for information and orientation, encouraging interaction and facilitating seamless navigation.
Diagram 01: Basement Plan
Diagram 02: Ground Floor Plan
Figure 40: View from the Lower Lobby Space (Source: (2023). Retrieved from sciame: https:// sciame.com/portfolio/pratt-institute-school-of-architecture-higgins-hall-center-section/)
Figure 41: View of the Reception Space (Source: (2023). Retrieved from sciame: https://sciame. com/portfolio/pratt-institute-school-of-architecture-higgins-hall-center-section/)
Diagram 01: Isometric View of Basement
On the first floor, design studios and a media office give students and professors with specialized locations for creative inquiry and collaboration. These studios are intended to encourage invention and experimentation by creating a dynamic environment conducive to the exchange of ideas and the development of design abilities.
The Second level comprises classrooms and the Robert H. Siegel Architecture Gallery, providing a multipurpose space for instruction and exhibition. Classrooms are outfitted with cutting-edge technology and flexible furniture arrangements, and the gallery serves as a venue for showcasing student work and hosting public events.
Diagram 03: First Floor Plan Figure 42: Studio Space ( source: "Pratt Institute, Higgins Hall Insertion / Steven Holl Architects" 14 Jul 2019. ArchDaily. Accessed 26 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily.com/920948/pratt-institute-higgins-hall-insertion-steven-holl-architects> ISSN 0719-8884) Figure 43: Level 1 and Level 2 studio Space (Source:(2005). Retrieved from Amassing Design: https://amassingdesign.blogspot.com/2010/02/pratt-institute-higgins-hall-center.html) Diagram 03: Isometric View of First Floor Diagram 04: Isometric View of Second FloorHiggins Hall, Pratt Institute, Steven Holl Architect
Overview of the Institute
The
Hall Center Section juxtaposes translucent structural glass solidity with transparent glass apertures, creating a dynamic façade interacting with its surroundings, while promoting visibility into the interior.
A strategically positioned sunroof introduces natural light, enhancing both functionality and ambiance within the building.
Diagram 05: Facade Details
Diagram 06: Openings
Diagram 06: Openings Diagram 05: Facade Details Higgins Figure 44: View of the Facade from the entrance (Source: (2023). Retrieved from sciame: https:// sciame.com/portfolio/pratt-institute-school-of-architecture-higgins-hall-center-section/)
Pre-cast concrete columns strategically placed throughout the Higgins Hall Center Section ensure the building's structural integrity. These columns offer strong support, ensuring stability and longevity even in harsh environmental conditions.
Glass panels in the predominantly transparent facades enhance the modern aesthetic, foster transparency, and maximize natural light infiltration, blurring indoor-outdoor boundaries and providing expansive views.
Figure 47: Facade trandlucent material and glass and steel openings view (Source: (2023). Retrieved from sciame: https://sciame.com/portfolio/pratt-institute-school-of-architecture-higgins-hall-center-section/) Figure 46: Column and beam inside Second Floor (Source: (2023). Retrieved from sciame: https:// sciame.com/portfolio/pratt-institute-school-of-architecture-higgins-hall-center-section/) Diagram 07: Structure Diagram 08: Materials Diagram 07: StructureHiggins Hall, Pratt Institute, Steven Holl Architect
Floor Level Difference Sectional Perspectives
0719-8884)
The Higgins Hall Center Section imaginatively incorporates floor level disparities between adjacent buildings into the design of a new glass insertion, resulting in an effective transition. This technique highlights the site's distinct character and achieves a seamless connection with its surroundings while increasing visual appeal and spatial dynamics, exhibiting a smart reaction to site constraints.
Diagram 09: Floor Differences
Figure 48: Column and beam inside ground floor. (source: "Pratt Institute, Higgins Hall Insertion / Steven Holl Architects" 14 Jul 2019. ArchDaily. Accessed 26 Mar 2024. <https://www.archdaily. com/920948/pratt-institute-higgins-hall-insertion-steven-holl-architects> ISSN
Figure 49: Column and beam inside Second Floor (Source: (2023). Retrieved from sciame: https://sciame.com/portfolio/pratt-institute-school-of-architecture-higgins-hall-center-section/)
The space use of the building is tailored to the needs of the School of Architecture, providing functional areas such as design studios, classrooms, a gallery, and an auditorium, fostering collaboration and learning.The Basement and ground floor is connected by double height space with the circular stair connection.
Diagram 10: Connection Between Spaces Figure 50: Facade trandlucent material and glass and steel openings view (Source: (2023). Retrieved from sciame: https://sciame.com/portfolio/pratt-institute-school-source: "Pratt Institute, Higgins Hall Insertion / Steven Holl Architects" 14 Jul 2019. ArchDaily. Accessed 26 Mar 2024. Figure 51: Facade trandlucent material and glass and steel openings view (Source: (2023). Retrieved from sciame: https://sciame.com/portfolio/pratt-institute-school-of-architecture-higgins-hall-center-section/)Student ID: 223179985