Items Tagged ‘architect’
Looking Ahead At Adaptive Reuse: Designing For The Gain Factor
Synopsis:
Bob Chisholm discusses the future for architects and interior designers after the fall out from the Great Recession. As he mentions, hopefully this economic failure will lead these two fields to think twice at brand new mega projects. He suggests that the future for these fields isn’t ending but shifting – and one area of shift is towards adaptive reuse. Buildings, if built and designed properly, can constantly experience a “gain factor” but being flexible to varying uses. Learning how to redevelop the presently built space can make that space more productive while at the same time help to limit the resources and costs necessary to just build from scratch. He also points out the cultural difference between the U.S. and Europe. Chisholm finds that Europeans are more apt to reuse buildings due to a cultural desire and proclivity to “adapt to functional use and design based on what is frugally available.”
“The future of our design disciplines and service philosophies should bring a demand for increased ingenuity in design, flexibility, durability, and longevity in our buildings. The throw-away/disposable times should be over, as far as a lot of our culture is concerned, and it will definitely apply to the design and construction industry. There will be a focused expectation to return to basic fundamentals of rational approach, to problem solving and solutions, and clients in a new a new time of sobriety will demand it.”
Taller de Arquitectura
Synopsis:
History
The complex was originally a large cement factory from the turn of the century. It was made up of over 30 silos, underground spaces, and very large engine rooms. Years of neglect and vacancy had left the complex into stages of disrepair.
(Re)Developer
In 1973, famed Spanish architect Richard Bofill bought the site, seeing great potential in its assets. This private development saw the transformation of the complex from industrial into a mixed residential and office headquarters. Upon completion, Bofill set up his firms office within the space. The entire reuse project took two years to complete.
Outcome
To better define the space as well as clear out portions that were beyond repair, Bofill tore down a number of the silos (keeping eight) and other structures. Extensive new landscaping (including gardens of eucalyptus, palms, olive trees and cypresses) was installed to soften the edges and create further definition. This adapted space now includes “offices, a modelling laboratory, archives, a library, a projection room and a huge space known as ‘The Cathedral’, the venue for subsequent exhibitions, lectures, concerts and a whole range of cultural activities linked to the architect’s professional life.” Additionally, he incorporated his own private residence and guest rooms.[1]
