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Wendy Richards, the newly-appointed Development Director of the Design Commission for Wales, intends to hit the ground running. As an experienced urban designer and landscape architect, Wendy has been involved with delivering a diverse portfolio of high profile design projects, ranging from a major urban park development in Hong Kong’s New Territories to the acclaimed Riverfront Theatre in Newport as part of a team at Austin-Smith: Lord.
Wendy has spent the last three years working with Newport City Council and Newport Unlimited as their principal urban designer and has worked within the private and public sectors over a number of years, as well as being a voluntary member of the Design Commission’s own Design Review Panel. Her passion for the work of the Design Commission along with a long-held belief that good design and sustainability can only truly work if incorporated at the very outset of a development made Wendy an ideal candidate for this new role at the Commission.
Now in position, she believes Wales has a unique opportunity to take a strong lead in innovative good design in Europe through its use of sustainable design principles. The Welsh Assembly has put the necessary policies in place, but it is now up to planners and developers, with the assistance of the Design Commission, to make sure these principles are delivered on a pan-Wales basis.
Wendy says, “The Senedd in Cardiff Bay is a fantastic building which leads by example. It is iconic yet sustainable in its design and masks a great deal of ingenuity in its subtlety. Buildings like the Senedd may come along only once in a lifetime, but there are many smaller-scale projects which can deliver the same sustainability credentials if sound design principles are incorporated at the earliest stages of development planning. Good design is not necessarily about architectural style it is about responding to the local context and making successful spaces and places for people.”
“A well – designed building or place is usually one a team of people has enjoyed creating and responds to its location and users contributing to the sense of place of a town or city. As we move towards an agenda of building places to be carbon neutral in Wales by 2011, developers should push their design teams to maximise innovation and sustainability initiatives. The Design Commission for Wales can help developers to do this through its design review process. It is then imperative that good sustainable policy principles are incorporated within local planning policies to hit this target and in doing so lead the UK.”
Wendy also believes Wales needs to find a number of champions who can carry the baton for good design and improve the places in which we all live. Wendy feels that those champions are already there within local communities, the private and public sector; they just need to be teased out into the limelight. Part of her role in the Commission will be to find these potential champions to raise awareness about good design and provide them with the necessary training where needed, to push forward the design agenda to help create better places for us all to live in.
Wendy adds, “In general, I would like to think that people are becoming more aware of good design, we should be demanding more sustainable homes from house builders, until we do they will not provide them – to the purchaser this would mean more energy efficiency and lower bills, at the same time, making better places by responding to the local character and context of an area.
Part of my role at the Commission is to continue to develop this link with people and organisations, building on the work already done on ‘My Square Mile’, our education programme, delivering training about good design principles and encouraging local authorities and developers to use the Commissions’ free Design Review service. People need to understand the legacy which they are creating, to deliver places which Wales and its people can be justly proud of.”
Alan Francis, Chair of the Commission adds “We are delighted to welcome Wendy to this new role which develops a strong senior management team with the Chief Executive and the Development Director for the Commission, enabling us to expand the service we already provide in support of great spaces and places across Wales”
DCFW has welcomed the decision by developer Henry Boot not to appeal the refusal of planning for the proposed redevelopment of the Abergavenny cattle market. In light of the decision, the Commission now urges the Local Planning Authority and the main landowner Monmouthshire County Council, to fundamentally review its strategy for the redevelopment of this important site close to the heart of this historic market town.
Carole-Anne Davies, Chief Executive, Design Commission for Wales, said, “I am pleased this deeply flawed proposal will not now be built and the decision to refuse stands.
“If it were based on sound and sustainable design principles, this site has enormous potential for redevelopment. It has the potential to create a vibrant new quarter that will enhance the quality of life for existing residents of the town; create new opportunities for local business and provide much needed new homes.
“We ask the local authority to now take advantage of this opportunity to work with the developer to secure a first class mixed use scheme that meets good urban design standards and includes an appropriate retail element supported by appropriate transport and parking provision.”
According to the Design Commission, any new proposals for development should be based on well established urban design principles. These should include:
- A rich mix of uses including homes, workplaces, shops and cultural facilities
- A well conceived public realm offering clear, legible pedestrian and vehicle circulation well integrated with the existing network of streets and public spaces
- Buildings of a scale and character appropriate to their setting that incorporate best practice in low carbon, environmentally responsible design, meeting the requirements of policy in Wales.
Carole-Anne Davies, added, ”I want to make it clear the Design Commission is not opposed in principle to the inclusion of supermarkets in town centre redevelopment proposals, but it cannot support proposals that are dominated by large retail sheds and extensive surface car parking. Such dominance was a major characteristic of the original proposal.
“The recent history of proposals for this site is highly unsatisfactory. The planning authority seems uninterested in realising the best long-term value from this site for the town and its community. To date there has been no evidence of a clear vision for the town’s development and little appetite to engage in meaningful discussions with either the local community or the Commission.
“We hope Monmouthshire will not now engage in further protracted and closed discussions with a developer to produce a modified scheme which might be accepted, but only reluctantly, by the planning committee.
“This is a golden opportunity to start afresh. A positive first step would be to engage in a broad, open but expeditious process to establish a strategic vision for the site. The Design Commission would welcome the opportunity to play a key role in helping facilitating this.”
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Designing Wind Farms In Wales
The purpose of this document is to set out the design objectives and considerations for the sensitive development of large scale wind farms and ancillary development in Wales. Both will assist in achieving developments which respond well to their context while helping to meet Welsh Government aspirations for low carbon energy generation.
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Wood Street, Cardiff (Sept 07)
Schools throughout Wales are set to benefit from a free new educational resource pack, focusing on raising awareness of good design and the wider built environment, thanks to The Design Commission for Wales. The resource pack will be launched by Jane Davidson, Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing, on Thursday, October 11th at 11.30am at the National Waterfront Museum in Swansea. Entitled “My Square Mile”, the pack encourages pupils to explore their local environment in order to develop a sense of place and a feeling of belonging.
The initiative was piloted in 33 primary schools in Swansea and subsequently offered to a number of schools in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion. Such has been its success in stimulating pupils to investigate and evaluate their locality that the project resources are now being made available free of charge to all schools in Wales.
The resource pack, which contains a book and a comprehensive CD, shares the innovative work of the pilot schools, and acts as a framework and stimulus for other schools to develop their own projects.
Carole-Anne Davies, chief executive of the Design Commission for Wales, said, “The “My Square Mile” initiative has proved a huge success in schools in Swansea and
West Wales. It has given pupils the opportunity to get out and about and explore their local neighbourhood. It has also given them a better understanding of design and architecture.
“The resource pack provides a framework for study and offers suggestions for teachers on the introduction of themes and topics, relevant to the national curriculum, such as sustainability and citizenship. There is huge flexibility within the project which can involve a variety of subjects across the curriculum, including art, design and technology, geography, history, numbers and language.
“Different schools have adopted different approaches and have involved pupils of different age groups in the projects. There have been many wonderful surprises along the way and it has been rewarding to see how the pupils have engaged in the work and have responded so positively to its challenges.
“I’d like to thank our partners in this initiative, especially the Arts Education Teams in Swansea, Carmarthen and Ceredigion local authorities, and Eileen Adams, project author and commissioner. Our thanks also go to the schools who’ve participated so enthusiastically in the project. I am also grateful to the Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing for her support and funding for this educational and inspirational initiative.”
Jane Davidson, Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing, added, “This innovative project is an excellent opportunity for pupils across Wales to learn more about their square mile, through exploring the relationship between buildings, spaces and people. By looking closely at the surroundings we hope young people can begin to understand how the environment is shaped and managed.
“The pilot projects to date have proved that interest is most definitely there and succeeded in offering pupils a chance to celebrate local distinctiveness and local identity. I hope teachers across Wales now take advantage of this valuable resource to foster greater interest in design and sustainability amongst their pupils.”
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My Square Mile
Through exploring the relationship between buildings, spaces and people, and by looking closely at the surroundings we hope young people can begin to understand how the environment is shaped and managed.
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The Works, Llanelli (Feb 07)
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Usk Way Newport (Jan 07)
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Llanwern Village (Jan 07)
Planning and Design Process
Vision
Several schemes for the residential conversion of the tower had been prepared previously by other architects, but were not viewed favourably by the Local Planning Authority or CADW. The architects for this scheme decided to use a contemporary solution to the conversion which would be a distinct element of the building rather than an imitation of the tower itself. The architects considered that the visual strength and beauty of the water tower was such that any addition made to it had to be distinctly different, contrasting in form, massing, weight and material in order to give horizontal emphasis, lying low against the verticality of the tower.
Extension
The new construction in the approved scheme is two storeys high and lies low to the ground, remaining subservient to the vertical form of the tower. It is aesthetically detached from the tower; this was achieved by inserting a glazed sleeve at the point where the new building touches the existing building. By creating a glazed gap at this junction a good visual connection is achieved between inside and out, this also maintains the independent form and integrity of the tower. The exposed existing red brickwork of the water tower at this location is left uncovered internally in the 2-storey glazed hallway; this reinforces the inside / outside connection and the separation and definition of old and new. The garden wall also acts as a division line between front and back, between old and new, enabling the tower to stand in its own courtyard space to retain its independence.
Roof access
Access to the roof terrace at the top of the tower was a crucial part of the design, this serves as an observation space with dramatic views across the city and towards the Bristol Channel and beyond. Also from the roof space it is possible to see down through the walk-on roof light and into the 3-storey void running the height of the tower to the first floor level below. Clear visual connections from all parts of the house were part of the design concept.
Restoration
The exterior of the tower remains largely unchanged apart from the insertion of slit windows into existing masonry recesses. Work was undertaken to restore the brickwork including complete re-pointing, refurbishment of the steel arched windows, and replacement of damaged dressed stone. A three storey recess runs through the tower ending with a walk-on roof light which forms part of the observation terrace on the roof.
Materials
The lower storey of the new building is constructed from red brickwork which extends beyond the edge of the building itself to appear, from the street, to enclose the garden beyond and provide the tower with its own defined space. While it matches the tower in colour and mortar, the new brickwork is constructed from metric bricks in a stretcher bond and remains a distinct element of the site. The upper storey is faced in pre-oxidised horizontal copper strips and is visually separated from the brick wall below by a narrow strip of clerestory glazing which runs around the entire building. This is intended to reinforce the impression given by the wall of being an enclosing boundary.
Sustainability Outcomes
Reuse
The scheme demonstrates a clever change of use and adaption of a redundant building.
Energy rating
The Water Tower achieves a four star/’very good’ energy rating of 91, with a carbon index of 7.0, calculated in accordance with version 9.70 of the SAP worksheet, using version 1.0.29 of MVM’s Maxim3 software (incorporating SAPcalc3.0, as approved by the BRE on behalf of DEFRA).
Heating
Main space heating is by gas fired condensing boiler with auto ignition (efficiency 90.00%) serving hot water under floor heating to the ground and first floors, with panel radiators to the upper levels of the tower.
Image credit: Kiran Ridley
Planning and Design Process
Sensitive intervention
The conservation of the existing buildings has been recognised as an exemplary exercise by the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) and the new link between the two parts of the school is deliberately composed as a contemporary intervention with a minimal palette of materials, including the treatment of its interface with the existing buildings which is in frameless, structural glass. The geometry of the link seeks to counter the historic formality of the original school buildings, inflecting towards the Coity Mountain carefully framing the view of Big Pit National Coal Museum.
Landscape
The scheme’s section has been carefully composed, its lower roofs sown with native grasses, and abutting the Upper School at its ground floor level to create an elevated landscape which reconnects the existing buildings with the industrial landscape. Central to the concept was the desire to form a connection between both existing buildings and provide a fully accessible link for all. The new visitor facilities are located at the Lower School’s ground floor and are approached by a series of subtly graded landscape platforms that adjust to the site’s existing topography via a ramp and sequence of gradual steps.
Access for all
Internally, the primary circulation on this level is deliberately open with all necessary fire doors set on hold-open devices that conceal the doors within wall linings to maximise the clear circulation width for disabled users. To ensure intellectual access, the exhibition areas are provided with integrated induction loops, with all audio provided in a multi-lingual format. Access to the public meeting and lecture facilities in the Upper School level is provided by a stair and passenger lift, both located in close proximity to the visitor reception desk. The lift is fitted with tactile buttons and a fully accessible WC is provided.
Sustainability Outcomes
Re use of brownfield
The decision to locate the World Heritage Centre within the existing St Peter’s School was a conscious gesture towards the sustainable potential of brown-field development, with the centre itself offering the opportunity for renewed economic sustainability in the Blaenafon area.
Passive
The environmental response is deliberately low technology and passive. All spaces are naturally ventilated and the new link’s section contributes to stack-assisted cross ventilation. High thermal mass is provided by both exposed masonry fin walls, an extensive grass roof and secure high-level vents which maximise the potential for night-time cooling.
Biodiversity
The grass roof, which is sown with indigenous species, also serves to stimulate biodiversity and moderate the cycle of rainwater whilst maintaining the natural flight path of an existing bat colony.
Planning and Design Process
Collaboration
The brief for the new unit developed after collaboration between the architect and hospital staff, including clinicians, also patient groups and estate managers.
Site constraints
The chosen site was close to an existing, predominately glazed ward building which affected the fire strategy of the proposed building. Surrounding the site is residential development, a main road to the west, and a ward block to the east, with a variation from 2 storeys to 4 storeys. Constructed on a gently sloping site, the unit is cut into the slope; by reducing the ground level the building sits lower on the site and enables a physical link to be made to the existing ward building. In addition a stepped section was developed, which acknowledges the contrasting scales of the existing ward block and the residential properties opposite.
Materials
The building was constructed using a main steel frame, with a Structural Section Framing (SSF) system, which enabled a relatively quick build with a limited palate of materials. The strong white curved insulated rendered band which runs along the west elevation acknowledges and responds to the white rendered properties opposite along Dolgwili Road. The use of blue engineering brick reflects both the existing ward block building but also enhances the visual strength of the white band.
Nature
The long sweeping curve also reflects the nature of the site, creating openness to the street, allowing a visual link to the crop of trees to the south west of the site and allowing a row of trees to be planted parallel to Dolgwili Road.
Legibility
The curve also creates a visual focus to the main entrance of the unit giving the unit a strong identity and making it clear to patients and visitors of where to go, which is crucial to health care buildings. The existing site infrastructure was re-configured to ensure legibility. The main entrance and drop-off area is designed with a pedestrian focus, creating a level approach from car/ambulance to paved area. A series of permanent planters have been incorporated into the design to act as a calming element prior to entering the hospital facility and can be seen once inside.
Sustainability Outcomes
Future proofing
The new facility was developed with future demand in mind, to build a suitable ‘long-term’ building which reduces the need to build additional buildings in the future at increase cost, both financially and environmentally. Studies were carried out to establish the capacity required to cope with future demand for services. The building therefore currently has over capacity. This is seen as a pragmatic approach which avoids the need for additional building in the future, which by its nature would be more environmentally damaging.
Quotes
Fresenius (the Renal Dialysis Company running the dialysis unit) have stated that the facility at Carmarthen sets a benchmark for new renal dialysis in the UK and it is used as a showcase for dialysis treatment in the UK.
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A470 Gelligemlyn (Jan 07)
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Carmarthen Town Centre (Dec 06)
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Martello Quay, Pembroke (Nov 06)
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Central Hotel, Cardiff (Oct 06)
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St David’s Hotel Harlech (Oct 06)
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The Works, Ebbw Vale (Sept 06)
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Conwy Quay (Aug 06)
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Capital Centre, Cardiff (Aug 08)
Singleton Hospital Day Surgery Unit required two new operating theatres and a 24 bed recovery suite, with pre-assessment facilities and staff support spaces. The challenge was to provide the facilities, creating an environment to enhance both the patient and staff well being, within the shortest timeframe achievable. The site for the development is at the northern end of the existing Singleton Hospital car park, across Sketty Lane, from the main hospital complex.
The development site is at the highest point of the Singleton Hospital West car park which slopes steadily down to the south. It is bordered on three sides by existing landscape with the main views from the site to the south out over the car park to Swansea Bay and to the west across Oystermouth to Mumbles, its Pier and Lighthouse. Opportunities for framing these views and screening the parked cars are exploited by the elevated position of the unit which through its precise siting also optimises the ground works, cut and retention, required.
Design Process
The building is roughly rectangular and orientated west-east along its long axis and north-south across the short axis. This responds efficiently to the slope and maximises the southerly aspect and views.
On the east west axis the building is set back from Sketty Lane beyond the group of existing trees to frame the westerly view. On the north south axis the building is located close to the line of the existing access/exit lane to ensure as level an access to the unit as possible. The result is the building itself is able to effectively act as a screen to the delivery and services area at the north west corner of the site.
Cutting into the site to create a level plateau, combined with the natural screening provided by the existing trees and shrubs means that only two elevations are highly visible with the other two almost completely obscured.
The speed of delivery required by the client, Swansea NHS Trust, determined that conventional forms of building and procurement would simply not have enabled the Trust to deliver the additional capacity by the required date and therefore only a ‘Volumetric Off-Site Manufacture’ (VOSM) approach to construction would enable the Trust to meet the objective of providing additional surgical capacity in the time frame specified.
The Need to Embrace New Working Methods
One of the key factors in speeding up the procurement of new health facilities is to bring the facility constructor/supplier/manufacturer into the process as early on in the project development as possible. By doing so, the traditional design, tender and construct phases are all overlapped with a consequent saving of time.
A second key factor is the constructor’s access to the ‘supply chain’ which brings both technical expertise and, through repeated use of the same supply chain (leading to longer term, stable, repeat supply contracts), a reduction in price.
A third key factor is the ‘right first time’ or ‘zero defects’ approach, at the heart of which is volumetric off-site manufacturing (VOSM) or modular construction.
The Architects view was that the only approach which would provide the best possible chance of achieving the required date for delivering additional capacity was VOSM. The consultant team therefore worked closely with a leading VOSM provider, to develop designs, costs and programmes from the outset.
Through collaborative working the standard VOSM product was used, but enhanced both technically and aesthetically, to develop a scheme that was client specific and significantly more visually appealing than a standard VOSM build.
The architectural approach has therefore been influenced enormously by the rigours of the volumetric manufacture method.
The concept was to create a contemporary building that responded directly to its location and used many of the features of vernacular buildings set within the landscape to recede rather than contrast or stand out.
Fibre cement horizontal boarding has been used, retaining the dark, slate grey colour but giving a more engineered appearance. The vertical joints between boards are butt tightly whilst the horizontal are overlapped like clap boarding to give a sharp clear line at every horizontal joint. This is an important detail to obscure the simple repetitive vertical geometry determined by the joint line between modules of the VOSM units and is done deliberately to signal that this is not a ‘temporary’ building but is as ‘permanent’ as any other modern healthcare facility.
The direction in which the cladding is fixed is also a response to the VOSM approach. The units (4m high by 3m wide by 12m long) arrive on site and are jointed together at which point the building is watertight. There is no need for a further roof to be added. The relatively long low profile of the 15-unit long building has been emphasised through the horizontal emphasis achieved in the cladding.
A site-specific external appearance referencing traditional materials and methods of cladding but executed in a way which achieves a more contemporary and consistent appearance has been achieved. The dark grey mass of the Unit is set on a light grey concrete block plinth, raised above the ground separating the contemporary, engineered and man-made from the natural ground.
The dark colour chosen for the cladding reflects the grey of slate and is fundamental to the idea of the building receding into the strong surrounding band of trees and shrubs much as black agricultural buildings and dark grey rendered or stone and slate roofed buildings do.
The only break in the long low form is the courtyard cut into the south side of the building which creates further opportunities for gaining natural light and heat, views to key patient and carer/visitor areas and provides a planted space immediately outside the main entrance and waiting area. The courtyard also acts to physically separate the internal public spaces from the more private recovery areas.
The addition of five VOSM units forming the plant room at first floor level to the north of the courtyard provides a vertical axis to anchor the building by its massing emphasises the location of the main entrance. The engineering plant has been split to be part on the roof – within this plantroom and part on the ground in a service area in the northwest corner. This enables us to balance the massing, avoiding a large roof top plant room whilst maintaining the appearance of a long low single storey building whilst keep the building away from the trees on the east (Sketty Lane side of the site) by having a small ground level services area.
The service area is screened from the car park by rendered walls and a timber slatted, steel framed gate and from rooms along the west of the building through the use of low rendered blockwork walls and tree planting to create a small semi enclosed court.
With little surface modulation to the east and west elevations, pre pattinated copper cladding is used as an infill layer at window level to create a band effect within which the smaller or horizontal windows sit. They also serve to direct the view to the main south elevation.
The main entrance is signalled by the massing of the plantroom, the courtyard and large areas of glazing looking on to it and by the raised timber slatted canopy. The entrance is reached by steps or ramp and the timber of the canopy is repeated in the planter around which the ramp wraps.
Sustainability Credentials
The VOSM method of construction has an inherently lower embodied energy level than traditional construction techniques by reducing waste through controlled construction within a factory environment. In addition, many components are recyclable once the building has reached the end of its 60 year design life. The use of natural light and ventilation has been maximised which brings benefits through relatively low energy consumption as well as improving the interior environment for both patients and staff.
Designers Evaluation
The VOSM approach greatly improved the timescale between project inception to completion. The whole building was transported to site, erected and made watertight in 5 days, and the period from inception to the first patient operation was 12 months.
Considering the building type and sector, this was a considerably quick programme and demonstrates what can be achieved when client/consultants and supplier/contractor work together from the offset and share knowledge in an open fashion.
The scheme is an award-winning project which demonstrates the opportunities of modern methods of construction, in particular VOSM construction, one of a very few built in Wales and for the public sector. The approach to the envelope, unlike other built schemes, demonstrates an innovative approach, utilising a dry-fix factory prepared material, which enables a quick build programme. The use of the cladding also disguises the repetitive nature of the module units, and gives the building a real sense of being a permanent, solid building, which indeed it is designed to be.
The design of the building has led to a significant increase in efficiency, enabling the Trust to perform more operations than was previously possible, due to the design led nature of the clinical layout.
The Trust has stated:
‘The Day Surgery development at Singleton Hospital has enabled the Trust to make major improvements in the delivery of day case surgical care as well as pre + post operative assessment. In focusing this activity in a purpose built, user friendly facility, we have found patient experience to be positively enhanced in terms of accessibility, efficiency and quality. The relatively short project duration meant that the Trust was able to respond to pressures such as waiting list targets in a proactive manner.’
The scheme was awarded a commendation award at the City of Swansea Lord Mayor’s Design Awards ceremony in 2006.
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Aberystwyth Masterplan (July 2006)
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Y Maes Caernarfon (May 06)
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Monmouth Visitor Centre (May 2006)
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Wood Street, Cardiff (March 06)
Planning and Design Process
Vision
The brief for the Coachhouse was to produce a two bedroom live-work unit of innovative contemporary design, with as low environmental impact as possible. The design concept sought to create a building of architectural merit: forward looking in terms of design and materials, whilst relating to the adjacent Victorian terraces. Furthermore, the building was to be user-friendly and inclusive, not only for those with disabilities but for a wide range of parameters, including working from home, good daylight, good connection to outside space and a healthy interior environment. The building was to be as sustainable as possible and is designed to be energy efficient, generate its own on-site energy, use local renewable materials and keep waste production to a minimum.
Site constraints
The key constraint of the site was its small size and the resulting planning requirements regarding design, building footprint, height, overlooking by neighbours and proximity to the conservation area. The design retains the shape and roof pitch of the original warehouse, but extends the visual base of the new building to enclose the external spaces. This solid base is rendered and separated from the visually more lightweight upper floors by a steel ring beam which also provides support for the canopy, bay and gate systems. The house is entered via a gate through a walled garden area.
Materials
The elevation treatment echoes the coach house form of the original building, with central opening windows and a simple industrial feel zinc roof thus maintaining a striking contrast with the original building. The bay window is designed to emphasis an entrance and creates a light box for the interior. The two natural materials used on the exterior – oak and lime/glass render are designed to contrast with and compliment the harder reflectivity and colours of the glazed areas. The roof, which includes photovoltaic panels, not only provides a natural energy source but also is clearly visible and iconic statement of sustainability.
Sustainability Outcomes
Versatile use
It seeks to move away from Victorian pastiche to a design reflecting the needs of modern city life: sustainable living, working and entertaining based on a sustainably constructed home. Key to achieving this was the creation of an urban live/work unit with uncluttered, well lit minimalist interiors and efficient use of space.
Heating
The building is heated via wet underfloor pipes, allowing 93% efficiency on the gas fired condensing boiler. Energy wastage is minimised by having size separate thermostat controlled heating areas. The building is insulated using Thermofleece and Tri Iso Super 9.
Green technologies
Photovoltaic cells on the roof generate 2/3rds of the buildings electrical needs and large South and West facing glazed areas allow for winter solar gain and natural day light.
Planning and Design Process
Historic context
The bridge’s dramatic crane structure provides a symbolic link to the site’s earlier use as a trading wharf. It is also a prominent feature of the city skyline, drawing attention to the river that is hidden from much of the city centre.
Urban form
Placing the main supports on the west bank also reflects the pronounced change in the urban scale and grain from the commercial heart of the city on the man-made west bank, to the domestic uses and soft landscape on the east side. The deliberate concentration of major structures on the west bank has many practical advantages. The vast majority of temporary and permanent works were kept away from the nearby dwellings on the east bank. Construction work was simplified, with no requirement for any works on the tidal riverbed and avoiding impact on the local river ecology. The existing car park on the west bank also provided an ideal construction site for final assembly of the structural components before installation.
Structure
The primary supporting structure is of four masts, standing in pairs, which support the 145-metre long bridge deck from the west bank. The bridge deck loads are transferred to ground level by two 120mm diameter cables which also act as stays for the masts. The deck is five metres wide and 4.1 metres above water at mean high tide level.
Construction
Atkins and Alfred McAlpine created a lifting and construction sequence which ensured the spectacular masts could be jacked safely into place. The masts were installed in pre-connected pairs, followed by the bridge deck in five elements corresponding to the cable stay support pattern. Final connections to each riverbank were achieved with two pre-cast concrete abutment units.
Materials
In addition to the structural steel, the bridge includes nearly three kilometres of stainless steel wire. With a load bearing capacity to carry 2,000 people, the structure includes 20 tonnes of dampers to prevent vertical and lateral oscillation. The masts are constructed from rolled and welded sheet steel and ‘fixed’ in mountings with 450mm long stainless steel pins weighing 500kg each. The bridge has a design life of 120 years.
Sustainability Outcomes
Ecology
The River Usk is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. Listed for its flora and fauna, the Usk contains protected fish species, and otters and is edged with sensitive salt marsh maritime flora. Therefore the bridge had to avoid damage to the local river ecology.
Habitat protection
A key early design decision was to avoid the installation of any temporary works in the river. This not only combated safety risks but also avoided damage to the wildlife habitat. It was also important to minimise expenditure on temporary works to maximise the budget available for permanent works. This strategic decision immediately ruled out an arch and led to an exploration of masted and cable-stayed structures.
Planning and Design Process
Collaboration
The principle objective of the project was to improve visitor facilities at Aberdulais Falls by replacing the existing temporary buildings with a new, purpose built, visitor centre. The design process involved working closely with the client to achieve their aspirations for the project, and included a number of design reviews by the National Trust’s own architectural panel.
Historic context
The building design for Aberdulais Falls attempts to clearly distinguish between the old and the new, whilst also being sympathetic with the historic and natural surroundings. The building responds to its wooded industrial setting, in its use of local stone, timber, steel, and a metal roof to reflect the site’s former use as a tinplate works.
Art
The close working relationship allowed the collaboration on, and inclusion of various artworks into the building. A stacked glass installation therefore reflects the flow of water, particularly when movement is created when rising up the entrance steps, forming an immediate feature at the entrance to the building.
Sustainability Outcomes
Green technology
The building is heated via an air source heat pump, which is run from a turbine attached to the water wheel. The site sells excess electricity to the National Grid when not needed – however, this is dependent upon rainfall levels at different times of the year, to drive the water wheel. A computer screen has been installed within the shop for the public to view as an educational tool. This enables them to monitor the amount of energy the site generates and the building uses, thus emphasising the sustainable credentials of the building to the general public in an understandable format.
Insulation
The envelope of the building is highly insulated with Warmcell insulation, composed of recycled newspaper, and locally sourced. In addition to this, building an element of the building into the ground has provided a natural source of insulation. The sedum roof over the Educational Resource Centre provides good insulation, whilst also replacing part of the green area removed from the site for the new building.
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Torfaen Eco Building
Planning and Design Process
Replicable simplicity
White Design developed a single storey unit using replicable and simple construction methods, to create an imaginative demonstration of environmental building techniques and systems. The walls are made from prefabricated straw bale panels and this is the first building in the world to use a barrel vaulted prefabricated roof with straw infill. The envelope provides a practical, commercially viable super insulation system which can achieve a u-value as low as 0.18w/mk. The prefabricated design of the building allows it to be de-rigged for relocation to alternative sites around the country as a travelling demonstration project.
Education
The building houses a small exhibition and seminar space, which helps to inform and educate through a range of courses, training events, seminars and exhibitions. The building demonstrates a range of cost effective sustainable building techniques, energy systems and locally manufactured environmentally sustainable or recycled materials, which have been targeted towards businesses. The whole scheme has a low environmental impact in its construction, occupation, operation and ultimately in its decommissioning.
Sustainability Outcomes
Reuse and recycle
To make way for the Eco-building, four existing old industrial units on the site were demolished. A documented audit trail was created, in collaboration with the BRE, to track the demolition materials of the previous buildings and ensure their reuse. Following demolition, 102 tonnes of bricks and concrete were diverted from landfill and used as aggregate in road construction and ground-works in Caerphilly and Rhondda Cynon Taff. Approximately 23 tonnes of metal were also recycled from the buildings, some of which was used in the construction of the new project, which also re-uses the ground floor slab from the previous building.
Waste minimisation
The dimensions of the building are based around individual product sizes, for example the dimensions of one plywood board, in order to reduce cutting, labour costs and more importantly the production of waste. The choice of materials and detailed design allows for dismantling and decommissioning and ultimately re-use and recycling.
Renewable Energy
The location in the industrial estate has allowed for the combination of Photovoltaic panels (PV) and a 100w wind turbine to provide some of the electricity requirement for the building. Investigations into biomass supply showed that the size and demand of the building could not justify even the smallest biomass boiler so a conventional highly efficient gas boiler provides the minimal winter heating requirement. The building services terminate in the plant room in such a way that a range of energy sources can be used to power the building. This dovetails with the concept that the building is mobile. If the building was to be re-positioned where wind power was viable, it could conceivably been plugged into a turbine/windmill to generate its power requirement.
Light and ventilation
The building benefits from passive natural ventilation which uses the differences in pressure between its interior and exterior caused by the natural effects of temperature and wind, to create air-flow. High floor to ceiling height assists ventilation and ensures a light and airy environment. Roof-lights are installed for ventilation and also to provide natural daylight to the interior. There is no need for cooling and mechanical ventilation in the building which means reduced energy use. Maximising natural light and using low energy lighting systems which require minimal maintenance, also mean low running costs.
Construction material
The main construction materials of timber and straw, as plant based materials, are infinitely renewable. The inexpensive straw bale insulation, sandwiched between plywood, is used in the walls and roof, delivering excellent thermal performance and insulation. The end walls and the top of wall sections that do not have windows are insulated with a cotton (recycled denim) and wool mix. Both gable end wall sections are insulated by using recycled newspaper fibres (cellulose). The building has achieved U-Values for the walls and ceilings of 0.13w/m2/k. The prefabricated timber frame and external timber cladding is locally sourced.
Rainwater harvesting
The building benefits from a 1000L rainwater harvesting system. Its domed roof is covered in a rubber membrane, which by design is self-draining. An integral ‘upturned lip’ runs along the edge to act as a gutter which channels rainwater through a clear plastic pipe into two plastic water tanks. From the water tanks, rainwater is pumped on demand through a filter and circulated around the building for use in toilet cisterns and where drinking water is not required. This relatively simple system has a significantly reduced impact on water consumption and bills.
Glazing
All windows are double glazed and fitted with low emissivity insulating glass which increases the energy efficiency of windows by reducing the transfer of heat or cold through glass. This allows the building to remain cool in summer and warmer in winter. The south elevation has a large glazed window, with trees on the east elevation for shading from the morning sun.
Biodiversity
In the year following completion, a dry stone wall using Pennant stone was constructed alongside the building enhancing biodiversity by providing a home for insects and plants among its nooks and crannies.
Local Economy
The building has provided employment and income generation for Torfaen and generated interest from surrounding areas. All the materials and expertise were assessed for their locality to the project and where possible products and trades able to manufacture the building, were obtained from within a 50 mile radius. This is shown in many of the construction materials used. Prefabrication of the panels was undertaken in two of the existing adjacent industrial units where the business community were able to observe the construction processes as they happened. The local timber sub-contractor has continued the use of the adjacent redundant industrial units after the completion of the building.
Quotes
Feedback from people working in the building:
- This has been a fantastic project to work on and we now have an inspirational demonstration building in Torfaen.
- Lovely working environment, light and airy – an inspirational place to work.
- Nice to work in even on the hottest day.
Quotes from users of the building:
- The physical environmental conditions were excellent and the insulation and passive ventilation really worked well on a very hot day. Garth Brookfield, Monitor, Facilities Management.
- A very nice environment to work in.
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The Nook, Oxwich
Planning and Design Process
Existing building
From the outset of the design process it was realised that the cottage could not be extended in a conventional way. This was particularly the case as a result of the thickness of the cottage walls and the effect that any significant extension or alteration would have upon the integrity of the listed building.
Juxtaposition
The design process developed two contrasting buildings as one home: the introspective character of the cottage juxtaposed against the light and space of the new building. The design proposals were discussed and details negotiated with the local planning authority and Cadw from the outset of the project.
Layout
The principal living spaces are located on the ground floor and split between the original cottage and the extension. The main entrance is located in a glazed link, acting as an interval between the two elements of the buildings. In the original cottage to the left is a garden room that opens out to the garden whilst acting as transitionary space between the link and the more formal living room. From here a staircase gives access to the master bedroom and dressing room. To the right of the link is an open stairwell providing access to bedrooms 2 and 3. At ground level, this space opens out into an open-plan kitchen, family/dining room which is lit via a wall of floor length windows opening out into the garden.
Materials
Externally, the original cottage is finished in with white render. Whilst the extension uses traditional materials, with a course rubble base and wood panelled first floor.
Sustainability Outcomes
Community
The clients for this project were a young couple who were starting a family and wanted to remain in the village of Oxwich. Without an extension, they would have had to have left the village. It is more than likely that should this have happened the cottage would have become a holiday home. Instead, the extension to this dwelling has meant that not only can the family remain in the village, but the young children can go to the local village school.
Materials
In terms of the sustainable attributes of the building itself, it is constructed using a simple timber frame. This translates to high insulation values, whilst giving the building longevity as a result of the significant life span of timber.
Planning and Design Process
Management
The initiative was managed through three teams:
- The Denbigh Partnership, which comprised the Denbigh Civic Society, Denbigh Town Business Group, Popeth Cymraeg and the Denbighshire Enterprise Agency;
- The Project Board, which consisted of the funding bodies, including representatives from the Welsh Assembly Government, Cadw, Wales Tourist Board (Visit Wales as of 2006), Denbigh Town Council and Denbighshire County Council; and
- The Project Team, which was the internal support group of Denbighshire County Council.
Objectives
The project ran from December 2000 through until December 2006. Its objectives were:
- To increase awareness among local property owners and residents of the qualities of the heritage in the town centre and the opportunities presented by the initiative.
- To encourage the take up of grants.
- To involve the local community in the initiative decision making process – through participation procedures and representation on the Partnership.
- Ensure high quality repair, reinstatement and new work in order to improve the image and character of the area and to reinforce local distinctiveness.
- Adopt policies and procedures that facilitate the process of economic regeneration and heritage enhancement.
- Ensure that all partners in the Initiative and County Council services are working together to benefit the area – encouraging other regeneration and enhancement schemes complementary to the aims of the Townscape Heritage Initiative.
Renovation
Work was carried out on some 20 properties and a public space, improving the fabric of the town centre. These renovations sought to return neglected buildings in the conservation area to their former glory, both in terms of façade conservation, and in re-establishing many of the current building uses. In particular, new and employment uses were encouraged, as well as upgraded housing and educational and community facilities.
Sustainability Outcomes
Reuse
Re-use of historic buildings is compatible with the principles of sustainability. Such buildings are often suitable for a number of uses due to their structure, space and location. By repairing rather than replacing them, the consumption of additional precious resources is kept to a minimum.
Construction
Repairs were carried out using traditional building methods and materials, which are generally less wasteful in term of natural resources, consume less energy in their production, and because they involve craftsmanship and traditional skills, are often carried out with minimal use of power tools.
Materials
The use of traditional materials and processes, such as lime pointing and rendering, makes for ‘breathability’, and assists in preventing problems associated with modern living, such as condensation, thus limiting the development of mould growths that can lead to respiratory disease, and ensuring longevity of the building. Traditional materials are also more environmentally sound, being sourced from natural and sustainable products, and having low or zero emissivity are often safer for allergy sufferers. They are also more easily and safely removed and disposed of or re-used.
Economic
Re-use of vacant space, especially in the town centre, provides accommodation suitable for commercial enterprise, or residential units, sustaining both the local economy and also the heart of towns such as Denbigh. This maintains the low levels of outward migration that have, historically, helped to keep families together through the generations and preserved the language and culture of the area. Homes can be provided close to facilities, thus saving on travel to work, and encouraging walking, cycling and public transport which provide easily accessible alternatives to the car.
Historic buildings
Whilst many historic buildings do not meet current thermal and acoustic standards, in many cases it is possible to upgrade them without damaging the character, and such work can often be undertaken during the regular course of repair and maintenance programmes. The close-knit fabric of a historic town such as Denbigh has an advantage in that most buildings are attached to their neighbours, with a consequent reduction in energy loss through external walls. Where appropriate, measures such as double glazing and thermal insulation, particularly of roofs, has been carried out.
Quotes
In 2004, the Royal Town Planning Institute awarded it the Wales Award for Planning Achievement saying that it was ‘..a good demonstration of how sensitive regeneration of the historic environment can contribute to community and business confidence’. Furthermore, the RTPI was impressed with the important role planners played in this ‘well-coordinated, multi-functional approach to regeneration’.
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Modus Scheme Newport (Dec 2005)
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Nantgarw Business Park (Dec 2005)
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Hawarden Castle Estate (Oct 2005)
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Kingsway Centre, Newport (Sept 05)
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Modus Scheme Newport (Sept 2005)
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LLanfyllin Medical Centre,
The project at Llanfyllin Medical Centre saw the upgrading of an existing building and the construction of an additional new building for a primary health centre with a range of facilities. It is designed to cater for a wide range of patients spread over a large geographical area. The practice partners wanted to create a building that was not only contemporary and forward thinking, but at the same time, a real and lasting contribution to the local community. Whilst providing primary health care, the building is also the home of other community facilities including the Citizen’s Advice Bureau and Powys Drug and Alcohol Council.
Design Process
The architect and client agreed that a clear separation should be defined between the new and existing building: not just physically, but functionally. As such, it was planned that clinical spaces remain in the old building, whilst support and public spaces be housed in the new. The two would be linked via a bridge.
The centre was designed to engage with the community from the start. As such, the frontage marks the entrance and was planned to connect visually with the town. The public space to be created within the new building was envisioned as the start of the building choreography. From here, all the buildings facilities are accessed, with staff and conference facilities affording excellent views of the surrounding valley from the first-floor level. Furthermore, the patient treatment rooms and the reception waiting area all have wonderful views of the countryside.
Public circulation was designed to be kept at ground level, with a new chair lift introduced to access the upper floors and a series of ramps to connect the differing levels of the old and new buildings.
Construction of the building began in June 2001, with the original building still in use. The design is undeniably contemporary in terms of its design and composition but is also heavily referenced to the vernacular of the area. A timber framed structure, for example, is traditional in the Welsh borders and this has been translated into an exposed steel frame within which panels of brick, timber and render are inserted.
Evaluation
– The design team has created a remarkable little building nestled in the heart of the village.
– The material palette as well as the building’s massing creates an interesting and engaging juxtaposition with the adjacent church.
– A thoughtful design process has clearly been successfully executed, creating a building that the local community are proud of and the staff enthusiastic to work in.
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Princess Way, Swansea (Aug 2005)
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Tesco, Llandrindon Wells (July 05)
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George Street, Newport (July 05)
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Cardiff Bay Masterplan (July 2005)
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Modus Scheme Newport (June 2005)
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Callaghan Square, Cardiff (May 05)
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Central Hotel, Cardiff (May 05)
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Bargoed Town Centre (May 05)
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Princess Way, Swansea (May 2005)
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St David’s 2, Cardiff (Apr 05)
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Central Hotel, Cardiff (March 05)
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Carmarthen Town Centre (March 05)
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Ely Bridge, Cardiff (Feb 05)
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Parc Eirin, Tonyrefail (Feb 05)
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Slate Quay, Caernarfon (Feb 05)
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St Davids 2, Cardiff (Jan 05)
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Drift Park, Rhyl (Jan 05)
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Tesco, Bangor (Jan 05)
Planning and Design Process
Collaboration
At the heart of Galeri’s design was the idea of communication between the different creative people working within the building and those visiting it. The potential for interaction between members of the public and people working in the various offices was of the greatest importance.
Site Context
The design of Galeri is inspired by its location on the dock front. As such, the design team sought to create a warehouse-like structure of three parallel sheds. An inner shed containing the large volumes, requiring large span structures, flanked on either side by small or domestic scaled structural sheds of individual rooms. The inner shed contains the theatre at its north-east end and rehearsal rooms at its south-west end, with a central foyer providing circulation. This design not only carries through the concept of a series of warehouses, but also ensures that the offices on the first and second floors have direct walkway access into the atrium space. This seeks to achieve the main objective by making office activity visible to everyone entering the building.
Materials
The building exterior is formed of a steel frame and green oak boarding. The timber cladding will form a natural weathered grey patina over time and will further act as a rain screen to the building. The external walkways are formed of galvanised steel, with lightweight perforated metal decks. The exterior wall, adjacent to the building entrance is made of board marked concrete. Window frames are aluminium and the building interior is finished in striking colours to contrast with the monochrome exterior.
Legibility
The building has two entrances, one on to the dock front to the north west and the other on the opposite side facing the parking area and the existing road, Balaclava Road. Although the building principally addresses the dock, the rear pedestrian access provides a clearly defined entrance through the use of high quality surface materials and street furniture. These furthermore dissipate the negative effect of the surface parking and give easy access for all.
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St Davids 2, Cardiff (Dec 04)
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Tesco, Carmarthen (Dec 2004)
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Penarth Heights (Nov 2004)
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Brackla Centre, Bridgend (Nov 2004)
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Cambrian Centre, Newport (Oct 04)
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Eagles Meadow, Wrexham (Oct 04)
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Tesco, Carmarthen (Sept 2004)
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Cambrian Centre, Newport (Sept 04)
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Lakeside, Brynmawr (July 04)
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Eco Building, Torfaen (June 04)
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Sully Hospital (June 04)
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Dragon Studios, Llanilid (May 2004)
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Lakeside, Brynmawr (March 04)
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Porth – Relief Road (Aug 03)
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Caernarfon (June 03)
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10th Anniversary Book
Design is people
This book marks the 10th Anniversary of the Design Commission for Wales.