Learning Centre Exemplar Analysis
Birkenhead Library and Civic Centre [Archoffice]
- Concept – looking through ancient
trees that use to exist on the site through to the view beyond. Thus, solid,
void, transparency, light quality, pattern and form were key design
elements focused on for this project.
- The intention was for
light to penetrate the building, with the intensity of light inside and
the reflections it makes subtly changing throughout the day until the
building becomes completely transparent at night.
- The building is set in the
centre of the Birkhead business district within the Neil Fisher War
Memorial reserve; with views from the area of Rangitoto Island, Coromandel
Peninsula, the Auckland CBD and the Waitakere Mountains.
- Specific and shared spaces
– cost effective.
- Meeting rooms that can be
accessed outside of library time.
Use of Materials:
- Brick – both internally
and externally mimics that used in the historical Plunket building that
use to occupy the site.
- Screening vertical “fins”
on the western façade are made of Laminated Purple Heart and Alaskan
Yellow Cedar – sculptural and functional providing shade from the sun.
- Laser cut perforated
sheets internally act as vertical screens. Similar perforated ceiling
panels also act to dapple light through from roof lights and act to aid
ventilation with smoke and air extractors on the roof above.
- Lightweight concrete used
as it reduces the level of insulation needed.
- Timber “fin” detail used
on balustrades.
My Reflection:
The concept behind this library is one of the more
successful and interesting out of the exemplars I looked into. This, in part,
is because the design concept is fairly relevant and applicable to that of my
folie’s concept. While I do like this
building, I feel as though I will be looking to convey the concept of mangrove
roots more obviously than the architects of this learning centre have conveyed
their concept of looking through ancient trees. The building is quite busy in
terms of material use; I will be using only a few key materials in my design. I
do; however, feel as though this concept is strong and particularly like the
architect’s use of perforated laser cut screens and their use of glass; to help
bring the natural environment in.
No comments:
Post a Comment