DESA1002 'Nine Quarter City' - <Edward Yao>

Abstract

The Tunis community theatre project has the purpose of creating a small open air community performance space. The design has been a good demonstration of the progression of the design process, the final model being the product of several iterations and revisions. There were three main objectives for the project, these were: Objective 1 – Connectivity: The theatre would be the embodiment of the site’s shared courtyard space. This space would allow residents in adjacent buildings to take advantage of the special ability of their flat rooftop spaces to experience performances from their own homes. Its ability to broadcast its message in such a wide reaching way through its open air performance space would allow it to become a centre of connectivity for the site. Objective 2 – Contrast: By choosing to construct the structure from two vastly different materials, one traditional (masonry) and the other modern (steel frame and tensile membrane), the contrast between old and new is highlighted. The way in which the new springs forth from a well rooted traditional building is designed to evoke a sense of freedom and to act as a symbol of expressive freedom. Objective 3 – Public: Creating a site suitable for the public was always one of the aims of this project. This objective has expressed itself in the open spaces of the structure. The lack of permanent roofing on the building creates a sense of openness akin to that of a public square. Simplicity was key to my design, with the three primary objectives being to create a project that emphasizes connectivity, displays contrast and is a practical public space. In this sense I have hopefully succeeded in addressing the context of my site, whilst also creating a functional building which sparks the interest of its users.