project05:Frontpage
Hexscape
A modular synergy of soft- & hardscape
Our proposal had to become a building that was able to act as a host for students of the University and provide them with temporary accommodation and places to work, in case these were lacking at the University. Furthermore, we deemed it of the essence to lay our focus of interaction on a smaller scale; our neighbours. Connections were made based on our core function; the flexible conference and work space. The functions that were integrated after determining these, stem from logical links with our neighbours. We thus created an active synergy between the functions of the neighbouring groups. Central to our project is the concept of modularity. Our main aim and focus was to create a highly flexible building that was able to interact on multiple levels with its climatic environment, immediate landscape and its users. Especially because these three elements are constantly in flux, a building; both its softscape and hardscape, had to respond to these changes in an interactive manner. We departed with the idea that the smallest building block had to be fully integrated in its functionality, both internally as externally. By developing several modules with each their own purpose and performance we were able to design a fully functioning whole with a uniform architectural expression. Consistency in modularity also comes back into the structure-debate; an added primary structural frame or will the modules themselves become loadbearing? The last decision was made in order to stay close to our concept of modularity. This had major consequences for the detail to which the modules had to be resolved. Ways of manufacturing the modules, but also the assembly of these modules greatly influenced the working of the different modules, enhancing the credibility of the project. Apart from the building on a modular scale, we are convinced we have developed a building that completely interacts with its open spaces as these have shaped the formal expression of the building. In this way the open space is not merely a detached addition - on the contrary - the open space becomes an integrated entity that is put to use in its full potential.
Concept to Building Assembly
Visualisation
Approaching the modular landscape walking from the faculty of Architecture, the street folds and flows into the landscape, people traversing through and across it.
Two entry points appear as you walk towards the main public square of the plot. The lightwells create a visual interaction between the public space and the capsule hotel beneath.
A view from the main square, looking back towards the faculty of Architecture.
The conference room filling up as a lecture is about to start, light still radiating from the overhead lightwells. Some students leisurely reading in one of the few comfy wall booths as others seat themselves for the upcoming lecture.
A look at the Capsule Hotel from a stairwell leading up to ground level and up.
Morphing principle Conference space to Workspace
author(s): Berend Raaphorst, Eldin Fajkovic, Ilham Lakhal, Thijs IJperlaan