TALES OF ADAPTIVE ARCHITECTURE

Embark on an intriguing journey through the evolution of Building 71 at University College Dublin, a space that has undergone several transformations from its origins as a student bar, classroom, and storage facility to its current incarnation as the residence for 2nd-year Architecture students. This portfolio serves as a narrative thread, weaving together the tale of adaptive reuse architecture—a seamless fusion of history and functionality seamlessly integrated into the fabric of UCD's campus.

As we navigate this narrative, witness the deliberate decisions and thoughtful repurposing that define Building 71. Formerly a vibrant hub of student life, the space now stands as a testament to UCD's dedication to preserving its heritage while meeting contemporary needs. Though the lively student gatherings have given way to the architectural pursuits of the second-year students, the transformation echoes an adaptive spirit and reverence for institutional memory.

Join me in this condensed exploration of Building 71, where the past converges with the present, shedding light on UCD's architectural prowess in repurposing spaces to honor history while fulfilling contemporary requirements and, perhaps, anticipating future uses. This portfolio encapsulates the essence of Building 71's dual identity—a bridge between nostalgia and functionality within the evolving landscape of UCD's campus.

For the survey of Building 71, we were put into groups with different aspects of the building to survey. My group's focus was on Topos - Ground, Place, Neighbours and Terrain

My group (Group 2) focused on topography, paths and the neighbouring buildings. I provided an initial path survey for my group's work.

My group made our site model with grey and brown cards for the neighbouring buildings and the paths around the building, cork sheets were used to indicate ground and topography and twigs found around B71 were used as a representation of the trees.

In our group's study on light interventions, we delved into the exploration of two distinct roof designs, each designed to allow in different qualities of light. The first approach involved incorporating small slits cut into the roof, strategically positioned to enable specific patterns and intensities of light to permeate the space below. This method aimed to harness controlled beams of light, creating a nuanced and dynamic lighting environment within the designated area.

On the other hand, our second approach drew inspiration from the diffused roof system observed in the Abu Dhabi Louvre. This innovative design sought to replicate the concept of diffused lighting, where natural light is evenly spread and softened as it enters the space. By adopting this technique, our goal was to emulate the serene and harmonious illumination observed in spaces influenced by the Louvre's architectural design. This diffused roof system aimed to provide a more uniform and gentle distribution of light, contributing to a visually pleasing and comfortable atmosphere within the designated area of study.

In summary, our group's exploration involved experimenting with both controlled and diffused lighting techniques through the implementation of distinct roof designs, each to influence the quality and character of the light within the designated space.

We were prompted to tackle the issues we encountered in Building 71, primarily related to inadequate lighting in the room's farthest corner. To address this, our efforts concentrated on maximizing natural light. We achieved this by removing ceiling tile panels to create openings in the roof and cutting into the bar enclosure. Additionally, we created a serene space separated from the rest of the room using bookcases. These bookcases were strategically placed to reflect a mirrored perspective on the back wall through tape. Furthermore, we enhanced the studio space by installing revolving pivot doors on the purple wall, connecting it to the other side.

After a lengthy group survey of the existing conditions in B71, I moved on to my design ideas and hopes for the future of the Building.

Following a talk/ presentation from Emmett Scanlon, we were given the task of creating 2 A4 sheets that showcased a design for the "what" and "how" of the building, For my 'what' I decided to make small improvements around the building like clearing out the bar area and the dividing wall adding in extra windows, creating roof lights in the ceiling and some seating areas outside. Conversely, for my 'how' I decided to work on a plan and make a zoning of the building to indicate different uses.

We were given a selection of uses and users for our proposals for our buildings:

1. Food/Production/Hospitality - Luncheonette
2. Repair shop/Circularity Hub/workshop - UCD Estates
3. Calm Space/Refuge - UCD Access/Student Services
4. Venue/Club - Mother LGBTQI+ events
5. Rehearsal/performance - Creative Futures Academy
6. Studio and Exhibition - UCD Artists-in-Residence

My group and group 9 were chosen to undertake UCD Artists-in-Residence as our client. We had a meeting with Emer O'Boyle the head of UCD Artists-in-Residence 2023, and these were some of the notes I took from the meeting:

The project involves the design and construction of a Studio/Exhibition Space for the Artists in Residence Group, which is a one-year residency program offered to professional artists. The facility must support the artistic process, foster collaboration and community, and provide a secure environment for artists to create and exhibit their work.

Client:

The client for this project is the Artists in Residence Group, which operates within the college setting. They require a versatile, engaging, and adaptable space that can accommodate a range of artistic disciplines.

Project Goals:

The primary aims of this project are as follows:

• Versatility: The studio space must be adaptable to suit the needs of different artists selected each year.
• Engagement: Common or social spaces should encourage interaction and community building among artists and the college community.
• Exhibition: An exhibition space for up to 200 people must showcase the artists' work while maintaining security.
• Collaboration: The design should foster collaboration, impromptu discussions, and peer support among the resident artists.
• Privacy: Each artist should have a private workspace while allowing visibility and interaction with other artists.
• Basic Facilities: The space should include essential amenities such as heat, light, running water, 24-hour access, security, a small kitchen, functional furniture (upcycled from various parts of the college), and adequate ventilation.
• Lighting: The design should prioritize natural light for visual artists working in the studio.
• Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is required, especially for artists working with materials that produce heavy fumes.
• Art Basics: The facility should include provisions for art-specific needs, such as drying racks, a secondary sink, a darkroom for photography, a soundproof recording room for sound artists, a sheltered outdoor workspace, and a versatile room for different purposes each year.

Space Requirements:

The following spaces need to be accommodated within the Studio/Exhibition Space:

1. Studio Spaces: Individual studios for each artist, accommodating up to 6-7 artists. These spaces should be private yet allow interaction.
2. Common Areas: Social spaces for meetings, discussions, and community building among the artists.
3. Exhibition Space: A public exhibition area for showcasing the artists' work, with a capacity of ideally 200 people.
4. Collaborative Spaces: Areas for artists to convene, critique each other's work and collaborate.
5. Basic Amenities: Facilities like a small kitchen, storage, and security measures.
6. Art-Specific Spaces: A darkroom for photography, a soundproof recording room, and an outdoor workspace.

 Design Considerations:

The design should consider the following considerations:

1. Adaptability: The space should be designed to easily reconfigure to suit the needs of different artists each year.
2. Security: The exhibition space must provide security for the artists' work and tools.
3. Natural Light: Ensure ample natural light in studio areas for visual artists.
4. Ventilation: Adequate ventilation systems should be integrated, particularly in areas where heavy fumes are produced.
5. Sustainability: Utilize upcycled materials for furniture and incorporate sustainable design practices.

Budget:

The budget for this project is to be determined. The design should aim for cost-effective and sustainable solutions where possible.

Conclusion:

This architectural brief outlines the requirements for the design of a Studio/Exhibition Space for the Artists in Residence Group. The facility should be versatile, engaging, secure, and accommodating to various artistic disciplines, fostering collaboration and community among resident artists while respecting their privacy and security. The design should prioritize adaptability, sustainability, and the unique needs of artists working in diverse media.

I actively engaged in every session of the Digital Modelling and Analysis lectures, aiming to enhance my comprehension of Building 71 at the UCD campus and to familiarize myself with the software tools employed in the course. Navigating through unfamiliar software posed a notable challenge, given my limited prior experience, but the overall experience proved to be both intriguing and beneficial.

The provided diagrams visually delineates the annual trajectory of the sun in relation to the orientation of the building. By illustrating the sun's path throughout the year, it effectively communicates how sunlight interacts with the building's spatial configuration.

The provided graphs and reports illustrates the variations in lux levels within the interior of the building over the entire year. Lux levels, a unit of measurement for illuminance, represent the amount of visible light reaching a surface. The graph likely showcases how the intensity of natural and artificial lighting fluctuates across different seasons, reflecting changes in daylight duration, weather conditions, or adjustments made to the indoor lighting systems. Analyzing this data can offer valuable insights into the building's overall lighting performance, energy efficiency, and potential impact on occupants' comfort and productivity throughout the year.

The trip to Venice for the 2023 Architecture Biennale was an immersive and enlightening experience, providing a unique opportunity to delve into the rich architectural tapestry of the city. The journey not only exposed us to the breathtaking historical architecture of Venice but also allowed us to witness the cutting-edge designs showcased at the Biennale, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of architectural expression.

Venice, renowned for its intricate canal network and exquisite buildings, served as a living classroom for the exploration of various architectural styles and influences. Walking through the narrow streets and crossing its iconic bridges, we absorbed the city's unique urban design and learned how the environment shaped the architecture, fostering a deep appreciation for the interplay between form and function.

Participating in the 2023 Architecture Biennale was a highlight of the trip, as it provided a platform for architects from around the world to present their innovative ideas and interpretations of contemporary issues. The thematic exhibits and installations offered diverse perspectives on sustainability, urban planning, and the intersection of technology and design. Witnessing these contributions emphasized the global nature of architectural discourse and the industry's commitment to addressing pressing challenges through creative solutions.

One of the significant takeaways from the Biennale was the importance of diverse voices and representation in the field of architecture. The exhibits showcased a spectrum of cultural, social, and environmental perspectives, underlining the belief that everyone's unique voice contributes to the broader narrative of architectural innovation.

The exposure to a variety of architectural styles, from the classical beauty of Venetian palazzos to the avant-garde installations at the Biennale, broadened my understanding of the possibilities within the discipline. It encouraged us to think critically about the impact of architecture on societies, the environment, and individual experiences.

The inclusion of images from the trip in my documentation serves as a visual narrative, capturing the essence of the architectural marvels witnessed in Venice and the contemporary visions presented at the Biennale. These images become not only mementoes of the journey but also tools for reflection and inspiration as I continue my architectural education. Overall, the trip to Venice and the Architecture Biennale was a transformative experience, deepening my appreciation for the field and leaving a lasting imprint on my perspective as an aspiring architect.

"In reimagining the proposal, I conceived a "versatile" space that adeptly tackles the client's brief, retaining significant elements of Building 71's structure. This totem represents the focal point of my design, a series of roof modules crafted to infuse ample light into the building's deep plan and deliver benefits to the artists and the public alike." - Somtochukwu Amadi-Obi (Totem Description)

This semester has prompted me to reflect on how we can foster and sustain building life in various forms, extending this consideration to encompass existing buildings and those yet to be conceived. I came to recognize buildings as organic entities demanding preservation and attentive care. In our pursuit of zero-carbon buildings, it becomes imperative to contemplate the lifespan of a structure and its potential for future utility.

This introspective journey involved a comprehensive examination of a building's intrinsic elements, including its structural integrity, material composition, organizational logic, and, significantly, its distinctive character. Through my project, I delved deeper into these critical aspects, aiming to unravel their complexities and understand their role in the broader context of sustainable architecture.

As I navigate through my studies, I eagerly anticipate the ongoing exploration of these facets, recognizing their profound significance in shaping the built environment. The insights gained during this semester encapsulated in my ARCT20050 Semester 1 Portfolio, serve as a foundation for my continued academic journey and the evolving comprehension of the interconnectedness between architecture, sustainability, and the vitality of built spaces.