project08:Project
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The archetype of a dynamic retail space is manifested in the form of single ‘unit.’ This unit is designed in the smallest practical dimension – 2m x 4m x 4m. In turn, the notion of the unit is then overlayed over the entire site in a 2m x 4m grid. Both new and existing conditions act as a driver for giving the landscape form outside of the two dimensional plane. The landscape responds to these requirements via vertical distortion of the grid and contouring of the plane.
SLIDESHOW
SITE GRAPHIC
To the north De Markt will meet the existing road and merge with the landscape of the NDSM Centre. At the North East corner, the existing entrance to the MTV offices at ground level. The North West corner establishes a connection with Media Lab through a seamless integration of the landscape and interior at a raised height. To the south the landscape must exist below the dynamic surface of Quake/X. In this way the landscape typology of De Markt is fixed, ensuring relevance within its existing and new context.
GRID GRAPHIC
LANDSCAPE GRAPHIC
A permanent path is established through the grid, providing solid groundcover and allowing free flow of users to the key points of reaction around the site. The nature of the path’s role in setting a fixed framework of travel through the site is mirrored by its structural significance. Cross-sectional, the path is composed of a simple of concrete slab and band beams spaning between grids of columns to the underground car park below. This creates a rigid framework over the entire site, a functional superstructure, within which, the dynamic units can cantilever off and operate. A maximum span of three adjacent units, to minimise excessive lateral movement, establishes a pattern for the paving through the grid. Within this framework, the unit is placed – braced on its side either by the rigid framework of the path or an adjacent unit.
PATH GRAPHIC
SECTION GRAPHIC
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RETAIL PLAN
A retail master plan is overlayed onto the grid, allowing for a diverse number of rental options. De Markt provides two types of rental units. A Fixed Contract will provide an occupier with a definitive m2 of space. The unit is dynamic in its ability to lower and become part of the landscape, but the space is not expandable. A Competitive Contract will provide an occupier with a minimum amount of m2. The rental space can then expand through the addition of dynamic units based on a set of parameters. These include user requests and an automated sensory response based on use and demand. Units available ranging from 16m2 to 48m2. The rental price for a Fixed Contract will initially be higher than a Competitive Contract to promote uptake of the new system. The system provides a significant benefit to retailers with the premise of free additional floor space based on performance. Fixed rental spaces are positioned so that additional units will be shared between retailers – creating a healthy, completive and evolutionary market.
In addition to the retail master plan, a green master plan is overlayed onto the grid. This includes the large areas of grassy lawn to allow for a diverse range of uses. Other areas of the grid are built up with low to medium density vegetation – breaking the monotony of the landscape, highlighting the nature of the grid and providing sun shading. Included in this master plan are small, low cost areas for rental by the community for the growth of produce. These urban faming plots are positioned around the perimeter of the site for protection. A small team of horticulturists will ensure the maintenance of all green areas in De Markt. A system utilising the paved areas and roofs of the units as collections surfaces channels water through the structural columns to a large underground water storage tank. Water from the tank can be pumped back up through the columns via an automated hydroponic system to ensure the longevity and survival of the lawns, vegetation and farmland.
The site and rental contracts will be managed by the De Markt Corporation, a subsidiary of Stichting Kinestsch Noord. The unique dynamic nature of the site will become a significant attractor for both retailers and NDSM. This is in addition to the provision of car parking, flexible retail hours and mixed site use. Furthermore, De Markt can guaranty the safety of a retailer’s storefront, fit-out and products as a consequence of the dynamic nature of the unit. When not in use, the unit is stored beneath the surface where it is safe from vandalism or theft. As a result of these factors rental rates for De Markt will be higher than the industry standard. Furthermore, additional income can be sourced from the paid public car parking and communal urban farm. The individual nature of the unit allows for an evolution of the initial master plan over time. De Markt can respond and ensure it always stays competitive in the market providing the most relevant rental options.
LANDSCAPE GRAPHIC
UNIT DETAIL
Establishing connections with existing and new project seamlessly integrates De Markt within its context. Connections strengthen the premise of De Markt with any additional users seen as a source of revenue for the site.
The vertical movement of the unit is controlled by a screw mechanism as detailed and prototyped in the Hyperbody project flexscape. The screw mechanism becomes informs the design of the prefabricated unit module – expressed and utilised as a framework for its structure. With the screw acting as columns, bracing the floor plate and roof structure, the facades of the unit are free. This allows for a number of entrance options and the freedom of an individual fit out. A range of façade options are available to retailers, with standard configurations including glazing or translucent panels. A light permeable material is preferable to reduce the visual bulk of the unit within the landscape, highlight the screw mechanism and allow a degree of transparency revealing the retail activity within. All units come equipped with basic amenities including electrical, water and lighting. To adhere to the contouring of the landscape each unit is capped with a unique prefabricated roof. The system is designed to sustain an intensive green garden, including drainage and watering systems.
NDSM CENTER
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MEDIA LAB
QUAKEX
