Abstract:
A place for concrete within the solid and void of Auckland in the climate crisis.
This thesis aims to explore concrete - a formless material that ancient
civilisations have utilised to present-day construction, forever regarded as a
‘modern material’.
Understanding concrete’s place in the current climate crisis is vital to ensure
its correct application, harnessing its beneficial properties and understanding
its carbon effects. Throughout this thesis, the following will be explored: the
carbon outputs, emotive qualities and history of concrete to understand a more
sustainable method of production and application. Interaction with concrete
ranges from structural advances to dynamic responses in experiences. The
emotive interaction will use the medium of light interacting with concrete to
create real-world conditions. Throughout this thesis, the methodology will be
in the analog realm.
The physical world aspects of solid and void will be developed through
sketching and model-making. Treating ‘light as a living thing’ creates the
conditions for the concrete’s emotive interaction. Intangible aspects of these
interactions will be conducted through the solid and void of casting forms, with
added light studies. Themes of light will be intertwined throughout, informed
by the findings in Steven Holl Architects and Tadao Ando’s projects. Through
exploring Holl’s ideas of ‘under, in, on and above, the underlying history of the
site will be revealed.
Concretes’ longevity will drive the design, leading to an architectural
intervention at Constitution Hill, Auckland. By analysing concrete structures
that have stood the test of time, implementing a space to last generations will
be explored. Researching the Pantheon as a starting precedent and ending
at the work of Holl and Ando Architects, an understanding of the material’s
presence and permanence will be grasped. Ensuring the material is utilised to
the fullest potential will be a key driver, as the time period a structure stands can
change how it is received.
As Constitution Hill is located over the exit of the Albert Park tunnel system,
the site offers the opportunity to create an interaction with a history that is
not known by all. Parallels between the material’s longevity and construction
are drawn against the chosen site, bordering the solid and void of Auckland’s
reclaimed shoreline. Adjacent to Constitution Hill is the Auckland University
campus, a space which tries to create a sense of belonging. The site offers a
primary circulation route from Parnell to Queen St; this intersection creates a
case to create a structure that utilises pedestrian movement whilst engaging
with the public to reveal a lost history of the site. Ultimately, to create a series
of interventions with a sense of belonging and intrigue for generations to come.