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Information
Information
Mitchell Pretak
Class Code - TGJ4MP
Grade 12 - Culminating Project
Chosen Career - Architecture
The Project
The Project
Location
Location
Located Downtown Toronto off of Lakeshore Bvld.
Project Description
Project Description
Conta is a concept for a new cooperative design building. Located in downtown Toronto, Its goal is to provide independent designers & freelancers with a safe space to create and develop their ideas. These safe, for-rent offices are specifically designed to aid in the creative workflow and give designers easy and affordable access to many different tools & machines.
Target Audience
Target Audience
Independant designers / Freelancers, Design Firms
The Process
The Process
Inspiration & Brainstorming
Inspiration & Brainstorming
The style of architecture used in this project is Brutalism / Industrial. This architectural style was specifically chosen to stand out from the typical all-glass / modern style used by the majority of newer buildings downtown. As the project is located in the port, its around many warehouses, and old factories. The funky design style of conta would be eye-catching and interesting, while still relating to many of the nearby industrial-style buidlings See the compete Inprisation board here.
*All Images found using Pinterest*Initial Sketches
Initial Sketches
While Planning the original design of Conta, many different designs were considered, one of which even made it to the 3D planning stage, however, we felt each of these designs was missing a few key aspects. The most important aspect missing from all designs formed.
The 3D model was created using Shapr3D
Thats why we decided to start from scratch, however, this time focusing on a design tailored custom to its environment. As you can see the sketches for this concept conform to the natural shape of the land, Helping Conta fit into its environment.
3 Quarter
3 Quarter
Birds Eye
Birds Eye
These designs have a much more dynamic shape and feature a combination of organic & geometric shapes which fit into the natural land around it.
Final design concept Sketch
Final design concept Sketch
Final Design
Final Design
–– Conta ––
–– Conta ––
Conta is a concept for an affordable cooperative design building. Independent designers & freelancers rent office space, and specific tools/machinery such as laser cutters or 3D printers.
The Brand
The Brand
The Name
The Name
The name Conta is a close linguistic portmanteau (blend) of the words Co-op and Toronto. Conta is built right on the waterfront and is designed to help artists create and imagine. Aesthetically, we wanted people to hear the name, and think of water, flow, and freedom of thought.
Logo
Logo
The Logo Started Initially with a basic "C" shape (for conta). It was then rotated 4 times around. Not only is its symmetry appealing to the eye, but the shape resembles that of the "spark" often illustrated on a head/brain to symbolize a new idea. The clean lines and simple 2d shape compliments the font.
Colours / Materials
Colours / Materials
The colours/materials used throughout the design of the building are mostly more neutral, Intending to add more focus onto its surroundings. Concrete and steel used as the primary building material fit into the industrial/brutalist aesthetic, while the glass keeps it looking modern, as well as adding tons of natural light to the space.
Font
Font
The font used across this website, and in any future advertisements is Montserrat. The simplistic, clean, and modern style compliments that of the overall architecture. Additionally, the font comes in a large variety of weights which is extremely helpful in creating a type hierarchy.
The Building
The Building
Scale
Scale
The main Sections of Conta are approximately5 stories high. The images below illustrate scale in comparison to humans.
Detail Shots
Detail Shots
Just a few of the most important aspects of Conta
Boardwalk
Boardwalk
A massive part of Conta is the idea that nature aids the creative process. We believe that walks, sitting at the lake and fresh air are essential to keeping a calm mind, and by extension creating new ideas. The boardwalk around the building allows people to step out from their offices, and be on the lake almost instantly.
Rooftop Cafeteria
Rooftop Cafeteria
Above the main entryway is the outdoor caf. Allowing people to eat comfortably outdoors helps to give your brain a break. As opposed to eating food in your office while staring at your ongoing process, means that your mind is continuing to work at problem-solving. Sometimes people need to disconnect and take a break.
Greenhouse Observatory
Greenhouse Observatory
This section of conta allows visitors to go to the top floor, and walk around a mini greenhouse observatory. A massive variety of plants and 360º views of the city help people to unwind, or even to find inspiration in nature.
Indoor Cafeteria
Indoor Cafeteria
Located in Canada, outdoor cafeterias aren't always a great idea. If you would like to stay warm and dry indoors you can do so at the indoor caf. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass roof ensure that you still get the views and natural light needed to feel refreshed.
The Watchtower
The Watchtower
If the 360º views of the greenhouse observatory aren't enough, Conta visitors can hike to the top of the watchtower, which is the highest point of the building. At the top, they can go out to the balcony and walk around.
Rooftop Balcony
Rooftop Balcony
This rooftop balcony is covered in turf. The idea is for people to go upstairs and sit on the grass with sketchbooks or tablets. the breeze and fresh air should keep the ideas flowing.
Angle Window
Angle Window
This interesting window is angled in such a way that people on the inside can lean out and see the ground and the sky. It also adds visual interest to the wall.
Observatory Hallway
Observatory Hallway
This hallway like all others at conta is lined with Floor to ceiling. One of the largest focuses of this building is to include as much natural light as possible.
Other Features
Other Features
- Doors around the building have smart locks. When a customer rents an office they can also buy access to special areas like a 3d printing room, A rendering room full of supercomputers, a Printmaking studio, a Paint room, a Pottery room, and more. Access is gained through their key pass.
- Green Energy; Solar panels are located around the building helping to take some pressure off the gird, Priority parking is given to bikes & electric vehicles, All lighting is eco-friendly LEDS, and any tools and materials are as eco-friendly as possible.
As more people become interested, we hope to expand the Cooperative Design Initiative, Eventually opening other locations like Conta, and maybe even expanding to full-time residences, adding other amenities such as gyms, pools, etc.
As more people become interested, we hope to expand the Cooperative Design Initiative, Eventually opening other locations like Conta, and maybe even expanding to full-time residences, adding other amenities such as gyms, pools, etc.
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