Hybrid relations: hybrid architecture, function & urban vibrancy

Abstract

Hybrid architecture is characterised by scale, density and the intensive mixing of multiple functions. This generates buildings that attract a large number of people, incorporate a wide range of programmes and encourage interaction between users. While hybrid architecture achieves a degree of urban vibrancy as a result of these qualities, this research identifies an opportunity to further intensify this condition.

This thesis investigates how hybrid architecture can intensify the relations between functions and users to create vibrant urban space. This is investigated through the design of a large-scale building incorporating residential, commercial and public functions.

The design-lead approach consists of two phases. Initial design responses investigate programme, form and inhabitation through a series of diagrammatic images and physical models. The subsequent section produces four building designs that respond to the physical characteristics of site and programme and investigate the relations between users and functions at a range of scales.

The research defines relations as physical and visual connections and considers these critical to the development of vibrant space. When people can see activity and inhabitation, a building appears vibrant. In addition, when users physically connect with other people and functions it can result in unexpected interactions. This thesis employs the architectural strategies of interface, circulation and void as a means to intensify these relations.

Firstly, the research investigates void as a means to generate strong visual connections. The void allows people to view other areas of the building and exposes the activity, movement and functions within. Secondly, it considers inhabitation of void with programme and circulation. This generates a series of physical connections between users and creates continual movement through the volume – activating the space and fostering a sense of vibrancy.

The thesis investigates circulation through the concepts of architectural promenade and activated surface. The architectural promenade creates a defined pedestrian route concentrating movement, encouraging interaction between users and forcing people to move through functional space. In addition the strict nature of the promenade frames specific views determining visual connections. Secondly, activated surface integrates programmes within the circulation route, blurring the boundary between function and public space and encouraging users to engage with other activities. The research considers constant movement and the enactment of function within circulation critical to activating the surrounding public space and as a result, promoting vibrancy.

The research investigates interface through three strategies: Interface as glass, Interface as screens and Interface as layers. While all three strategies to an extent explore transparency, they engage different materials and methods to achieve this. Interface as glass explores the varying opacity of glazing as a means to generate a diverse range of visual connections. Interface as screens explores permeable surfaces as a physical division between functions while allowing visual connections and conditions of space to filter through. Lastly, Interface as layers explores the layering of materials as a filter and introduces the concept of depth and proximity between functions.

The design outcomes of this thesis, while not solutions in themselves, contribute to the wider discussion on hybrid architecture and its ability to achieve scale and density while creating exciting and vibrant spaces.