Menu
Search
Final Project
Weaving into the Urban Fabric
A SKILLS CENTRE AIMING TO REVIVE THE HERITAGE CRAFTS WITHIN THE CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, OFFERING EMPLOYMENT AND REHABILITATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR OFFENDERS IN DIGBETH.
The project seeks to address rehabilitation space characteristics such as lighting and stimulation in order to rewrite the cycle of re-offending within Digbeth. The skills centre will improve the health and well-being of the offenders themselves, the site, and the surrounding community.
Kinetic Facade Elevation
The crafting workshop features a kinetic facade inspired by the mechanics of a shuttle on a loom, highlighting the strong history of textile work in Birmingham.
The skills program consists of construction, weaving, crafting, horticulture, vocational skills, and culinary. The program was developed in accordance with the proposed surrounding masterplan which intends to build a series of entertainment and apartment buildings. This will encourage offenders to take part in the programs and apply their new skills to job applications adjacent to the site.
Woven Facade Exhibition Space
The woven facade acts as a shading device, allowing controlled levels of light to enter the space.
Kinetic Facade Model
The model illustrates the adaptability of the façade, dependent on the users needs.
Journey to the Design
The floor plan was derived from the concept of thread unravelling from a textile spool.
The kinetic shading device is set forward from the building to allow users to walk within the created space.
The shading device acts as a pulley system as illustrated in the model.
The informal meeting rooms are interactive and allow users to comfortably converse with one another.
The sensory garden motivates and stimulates the users in a green environment.
The users are able to adjust the height of the kinetic facade to their needs.
Visionary Thinkers
Visionary Creators
Visionary Makers