Socializing Stairways
Kankana Choudhary
Observations
Spatial Intent
The idea of ‘services as social space’ came from a larger observation on site. Usually, the service elements of a building are hidden or it acts like a dead space. Here the concept began by identifying these services eg. the staircases, plinths, windows, plumbing service area etc. using these elements as an anchor to create affordances and spaces in them. Stairs and steps are the prominent elements making the programs within them. Majorly the building consists of these staircases and plinths which are placed strategically, and also act as an inviting factor.
Process
So I started with marking the journey of my structure, where I wanted people to pause, move, rest interact etc. I made 3 iterations
of that journey by using different zones of the site in the Plan.
And therefore chose the best elements from each of them.
Thinking Sketches
The elements or the details which cater to my conceptual idea, I then drew them out like the staircases, service areas, ducts, windows etc. but one of the main elements of service is staircase which I further took forward to become the main element of my design.
Taking forward the nature of staircases and levels, I further developed a language of steps and levels and then how these levels and steps can afford programs as well as opportunities for interaction and socializing. simultaneously I also started zoning and thinking about the programs I needed in my design. Which program complements the other the best, which programs could have levels of play and which cannot.
Strategies
After the conceptualizing stage, the design process started by cutting tiny bits of 3 different colour papers and colours representing varied heights and levels. Stacking them according to the levels which are suitable according to the programs and then to make connections I drew staircases wherever the paper overlaps.
Simultaneously I even started resolving and conceptualising the design with the help of sections.
Thus by doing this, I made 3 iterations respectively using the strategy and therefore chose the elements which I thought worked well
with the scheme which eventually led to my design.
Conceptual Model
Design Drawings:
Plans
The idea was to design a structure which gradually takes you to the upper level of the building as well as the ground levels keep undulating according to the respective program. The terraces are accessible, the stairways are the main element here which becomes an inviting element of the structure. most of the programs hold the idea of variation in the heights of plinths. which eventually affords and becomes the program itself.
Sections
Elevation
Spatial Detail
Design Views & Design Analysis
