Abstract:
Adaptiveve [re]use is a process that makes use of the principles of [re]duce, [re]use and [re]cycle, often giving products an extended lifespan not initially associated with the original function. Environmentally adaptive [re]use makes sense as the embodied energy of the host building is [re]tained opposed to the amount of energy [re]quired to construct an entirely new building. The purpose of the urban group framework was to increase density within the city and provide a wider range of commercial, social and cultural activities that take place in a 24 hour cycle. Another aim was to [re]store existing buildings within the city, [re]juvenating the area and its surrounds. The design strategy of this thesis was to investigate how new interventions could be in contrast to the existing building. This was achieved by allowing new structures to be read differently from the host building. The contrasting use of materials and construction technologies [re]sulted in an architectural language of “lightness”, allowing new components to be sensitively inserted into the existing building. Additionally the design strategy included the exploration of layering and place making. Layering involved the preservation of the original building’s form and identity, while new structures are layered over the existing in order to create new spaces. Place making was achieved by adding new hanging structures to the northern and southern façade in turn articulating new functional spaces. All new adaptations and interventions are constructed in such a manner so as not to hamper the flexibility and future adaptability of the building.
