06.11.09

speech transcript [sort of]:

[1] This is a written appendage to the presentation slides, clarifying the motives behind the design that may not be evident through the illustrations where necessary. Firstly, it is important to clarify that throughout the project my thoughts have been contained by three points. Focusing on the obvious direction of the project is important [building technology and brief], as well as ensuring that everything I do could be considered 'modern', in the most basic sense; creating a new architecture, something that probably wouldn't have been imagined in the 20th century.




[2] I created a few models, but I would only deem three of them as having any influence over the design post week seven.



[3] The first one is the notion of expanding a structure and compressing it, as part of a relationship with the site and user. It can also be 'packed flat' when compressed.



[4] Another simple model was inspired by a found artefact [umbrella] which creates a roof. The key characteristic to take out of this exploration was that it was so easily adapted. It could be used to create a large, expansive roof/pavilion/cover or a small shelter. This was probably the most important model, as is evidenced later in the presentation.



[5] Adaptability should be easily achieved by the smallest possible number of participants. In this model, the practicality of this has been explored.



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[19] Nothing about the design is presumptuous. It is attempting to be as neutral as possible.



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[22] Within the system, each part can be isolated and packed individually.



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[25] The footings themselved will not be provided, rather several moulds will be included in the pack.



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[29] As the essence of the design is to provide an avenue for building, additional construction materials can be added, however these are not inluded in the pack.



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[31] Using these elements, and inspired by the umbrella modelling, bending roof arms can be made.



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[34] Each position of the lower point on the arm can change the expanse of the roof for that arm.



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[42] A crucial part of the construction is the joints that consitute the arm. I have designed a simplified swivel joint so that it is easy to construct the bending roof structures.




[43] The peice highlighted in white is essential to the joint. Other parts are universal and can be supplied externally.



[44] The end user may also want to modify the joint or create completely new ones, in accordance with available materials. Here, I have outlined two possibilities.



[45] How has my thinking about site filtered the design?



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[47] For the scenario presented later, the following quantiities of materials will be supplied to the Dili site.



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[57] Simple diagrams will be provided in the 'flat pack' for the user. The construction of these arms is fairly straightforward however.



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[59] Program is not static, nor is the building. The role of the architect in this case is not to conceive one program to be applied to site through building, but envisage many different ways of habitation.There are a few factors that dictate the outcomes of the communal dialogue, which is, to me, the main points in imagining scenarios and applying frameworks for them.



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[61] What are the spatial needs of the proposed activities?



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[64] Spatial planning diagrams can be easily translated ito reality, and adapted.



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[69] The form of the arms can respond to solar exposure.



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[71] 'Found' materials are used as infill. In this context, roof thatching material, reeds and loose, dead foliage.



[72] The arms in the context of my backyard. Infill material changes accordingly.



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[74] The arms creating a stage...



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