I am really inspired by nature and how it 'flows' - great architects often incorporate organics into their designs - intertwining people with the environment.
Initially, I had a specific 3D design in my head. It was this shape that I was originally adamant on taking on the form of my Mixed Use Hub - however after many attempts of making it fit with my project, I still wasn't satisfied (see development 1 below).
I used clay for part of my design process as I love the freedom it gave for me to create a random, effortless form. Although clay did not give me my chosen shape for this project, it allowed me instead to realise that I needed to let things flow more and that I don't necessarily have to use my initial idea (that I had my hopes up for) if it doesn't fit with my project.
I decided to start again, focusing on something new originating from my photos taken recently.
Shells are a strong inspiration for this project. My love for their soft curves, flowing lines and deconstructivist shapes has lead me to develop my ideas based off my photograph, forming my design.
Starting off with physically drawing the shell, i focused on the leading lines (being the darkest middle one) and how each line sort of follows one another. I developed this drawing on illustrator.
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This ancient shell i photographed in a Museum in Rotterdam, Holland embodies what I want in my architectural design.
I tried out variations of the shell; softening the curves, and adding windows etc, until i found a shape i like and one that 'flows'.
1. Main Library, located under one of the skylights.
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2. A shell I found. I have been hugely inspired by shells and other natural curved forms for this project - and I spent a large amount of time sketching these forms, understanding the shape and testing which one is best suited for my project.
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3. An initial design of a main hall elevation. Framed by the cell like window, the sketch looks out onto another section located underneath the second large skylight. As seen, the Hub will consist of many assets such as study halls, independently owned restaurants, cafes and shops, and healthcare for example.
4. Using a ruler to create a more accurate representation, I sketched a possible cinema/lecture room. Although the majority of my Hub is made up of curves, I wanted to try out a more classical approach and try to improve on my scale/architectural drawings.