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BALLINACURRA ARTS & CULTURE CENTER

Project

Arts and Culture Center

Location

Ballinacurra, Cork

Study Year

Year 4 

Nestled amidst the historical tapestry of our community lies an architectural gem, a testament to our industrial heritage – the old mill that has stood for generations. This venerable structure has witnessed the ebbs and flows of this town's history. Now, it beckons us to embark on an exciting journey of transformation, breathing new life into its timeworn corridors and vast spaces. The vision is clear: to metamorphose this ageing mill into a vibrant Arts and Culture Center, a place where creativity, heritage, and community converge.

CONCEPT

PHASE

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The conceptual process began with surveying the building for any interesting aspects. Upon doing so, varying mechanical artefacts were found protruding from the building, giving the sensation of this mechanical element residing inside the shell of the building. These elements tell us a story of the building before it lay dormant and abandoned, the story of how the grain would flow through these elements giving life to our building. As soon as the flow yielded so did the usage of the building itself, therefore it is important to keep these artefacts and expand on them as they are the building's mechanical heart pumping life into its very essence.

Expanding on this premises a total of three artefacts were recorded and analysed in detail. These elements were deconstructed and reconstructed to form new shapes and forms with the hopes of creating intricate interior spaces and elements that could aid in the further design process of the space.

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CONCEPTUAL

RENDERS

FINAL DESIGN

Progressing from the conceptual stage, the project's final development begins to adapt regulations and sustainable elements into the design. This takes the project to a new level of design, shaping the building to be aware of its purpose group of users and its sustainable engagement. 

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Technical and Sustainable Solutions

The building underwent alterations from the initial conceptual phase. Adjusting the interior and external space to achieve modern regulations standards. This was achieved with consultation from the Irish Technical Guidance Document alongside the British Standard Documents.

Furthermore, the intervention looked at utilising modern sustainable solutions to bring the sustainability of the building to a modern high performance. 

Compliance Document

G.0 Ground Floor

The Ground Floor serves as the welcoming hub of the building, boasting a prominent reception desk that greets visitors upon entry. From here, guests are guided into two distinct art and exhibition spaces located on the northern and southern ends of the building. Each space is carefully designed to showcase various artistic creations, providing ample room for exhibitions, installations, and interactive displays.

2.0 Second Floor

The second floor serves as an extension of the library spaces found on the first floor. Here, the library experience is elevated to new heights, with carefully curated nooks and alcoves strategically positioned to provide readers with secluded spaces for contemplation and study. These cosy retreats not only offer a sanctuary for quiet reading but also afford breathtaking views of the central atrium space, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the architectural beauty of the building while delving into their favourite books.

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FLOOR

LAYOUT

3.0 Third Floor

The roof floor, accessed by the multipurpose fire stairs extension on the south side of the building, presents visitors with a captivating rooftop experience unlike any other. Here, atop the architectural marvel below, guests are greeted by a spacious rooftop seating area enveloped by lush greenery. A meticulously designed planted garden surrounds the seating area, creating a tranquil oasis.

1.0 First Floor

As visitors ascend to the first floor, they are greeted by a dynamic space designed to foster creativity and learning. This floor is dedicated to hands-on exploration and intellectual growth, offering both a workshop and a state-of-the-art computer lab. These facilities are meticulously curated to provide individuals with the tools and resources they need to unleash their creativity and expand their skills.

RENDERS

FINAL

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