Design Project : Stalled Spaces
Year 2025
Course: BA Design Practice
To transform a stalled space in Glasgow into something for the community. That can be then adapted into a pavilion for the biennale in Venice.
Part 1
Location:
My space is located behind the science centre. It is a wide open space that is overgrown with greenery and trees.
As it has been neglected since 1988 there is rubbish and rubble all over.
History:
1897 - 1970 Princes Docks
My space was originally a canting basin that allowed for ships to move more freely.
The main cargo was coal but towards the end it became general goods.
By the 70s the docks use had come to a close and the canting basin was part filled in to make room for the Garden festival.
28th April - 26th September 1988
The Garden festival was brought to different cities to reclaim deindustrialising land.
It was only held in Scotland once out of the 5 times.
This event helped to restore Glasgows recognition nationally and internationally, by attracting 4.2 million visitors.
Part 2
Mapping & Development
This was the final shape I used to explore the history of the Princes Docks.
3D Exploration
Laser cut fence.
I mapped out the garden festivals landscape as this design would create a visual contrast against the fence.
Block structure exploration.
Layering wood-chip material onto the space.
Concept for part 1 & 2
Main idea : Playground
Based on : Froebels theory & the history of the stalled space.
Supports : Cradle to cradle and circular economy (sustainability theories)
My concept for the stalled space is to create a playground that allows for learning to flourish. I have taken into account the surrounding areas and the historical value that this space holds.
Breakdown of design:
The floor is a gaping of the garden festival
The fence is inspired by the princes docks
The main play structure is inspired by the large stone blocks that are currently in the space.
Part 3
'The gift of change' Pavillion
My concept encompasses the way we view life: how it's made up of changes, uncertainties and choices. Visitors can interact with the moving blocks which represent things that we can control (in life), while the fences represent obstacles that we may face.
I have taken Froebels approach and adapted it to appeal to all audiences while still keeping some of his key principles in place i.e engaging with nature, connectedness and unity.
Lazer cutter process video
