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A PALIMPSEST FOR
WELLBEING
‘wellbeing - a state of being comfortable, healthy or happy’
The term ‘wellbeing’ means something different to each individual and is heavily influenced by shifts in beliefs of the larger community and personal growth of ideals in life. From this arises a new architectural problem, creating a building which is fully adaptable for the future, while still being fit for purpose in the present. Taking inspiration from the current wellbeing centre on the Edinburgh University campus, this proposal becomes the antithesis. It provides an alternative approach to wellbeing, one which is based on trending ideas of the time and non-medical aspects.
Divided into two clear categories, the permanent solid core and general social spaces come together with the temporary currents wellbeing spaces to create one unified proposal. Expressed in the materiality and structure of the proposal, the permanent is grounded, appearing heavy and solid, while the temporary is lightweight with a sense of transparency. Creating an architectural language between the two by using cohesive elements throughout the interior, they remain connected but are perceived as separate from the outside.
Positioning the project in the wider context of Edinburgh, the prominent link between the the existing and wellbeing buildings on campus is highlighted. Each typology acts as a node, branching out to relevant buildings of similar use and creating connections within the city. The timeline indicates where the future of the building could head, drawing reference from the past.
YEAR 3, SEMESTER 2, 2020
Turning its back on the city, it looks to the green of the meadows to provide an escape for the users. Enclosing a courtyard, it retains its privacy from the vast space while creating a community of openness inside. Transparent elements allow the spaces to connect, tearing down the boundaries of the stigma of well-being.
SOCIAL COURTYARD
NIGHT VISUAL
FLEXIBLE STUDIOS
MEDITATION SPACE AND SUNKEN GARDEN
CONVERSATION ROOM
The structure of the ground floor consists of solid load-bearing concrete, rising to the upper floors, part continues in solid and part changes to a steel frame. The transition between the two systems emphasises the permanent and temporary areas in the building. Castellated steel I beams are used to span the larger spaces in the building, while more delicate solid steel beams span the more intimate spaces.
Creating seamless transitions between each material requires a unique solution each time. One of the details focused on and developed further is how the glazing meets the solid concrete wall and sits frameless in it. The detail is adapted from a typical balustrade to fit the proposal. Used throughout the entire proposal, this is one of the common elements tying the two areas (temporary and permanent) together internally.
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