Folie

Arbo-Architecture as Inspiration


Brainstorming on the experience that I wanted to create, and the aspect of learning, I thought that the topic of architecture, whilst inside an architectural sculpture seemed fitting.  In my mind the theme of sustainability in building design was hard to kick, yet I didn't want obvious learning, for the folie to become some kind of workshop.  I thought if I could make people think about their experience, and begin to question why things are the way they are, then they would've experienced something - and taken it with them in their minds.

I also wanted a reason for visitors to return, and I figure for this - there needs to be a change within the folie, a reason to return.  So the folie must provoke thought through experience, and change or develop over time.

In regard to development of the building, I thought why not grow it?  If some kind of a frame could be installed, and plants grown around the frame to create walls, hallways, roofing or whatever was possible.  Possibly even plants that bear fruit to be picked and taken by the visitors?

After thinking about this I researched the topic and discovered something called "Arbo-Architecture" - a type of architecture being developed by three young architects German architect;s Oliver Storz, Ferdinand Ludwig and Hannes Schwertfeger Germany.  Basically tree's are grown, supported and shaped by scaffolding originally, until they have developed into the desired shape, then the scaffolding is removed.  The results are impressive, but more research needs to be done in regard to the time involved in the growth of the structure etc.

References;


Sharma, Desh Raj. 2009. "Arbo-architecture: German trio pioneers living treehouses." Accessed March 6, 2012 http://www.greendiary.com/entry/arbo-architecture-german-trio-pioneers-living-treehouses/

Folie - Howard Smith Wharves

This assignment proposes a Folie to be designed at the Howard Smith Wharves.  At first I knew little about the concept of a Folie, other than it being some sort of architectural sculpture.  From the lecture and readings, the purpose of a Folie became more clear, and definitely more complex, and indeed made sense for the designated location.  A Folie is designed to activate space, and the Howard Smith Wharves are in dire need of this.  One of the last remaining undeveloped riverfront locations in Brisbane, nestled in between the cliff face and the river, when open to the public was merely used as a commuters path connecting new farm with the CBD.  I was one of the many people who did use the site for this exact purpose, riding my bike from home to university and back almost daily.  The site offers amazing views of the CBD and story bridge, and offers great historical value.  However despite this, it has never fulfilled its potential as a landmark site, and that is exactly the purpose of this assignment - to activate the space and deliver some of its potential.

An interesting concept about a Folie is that it is a structure with no distinct utilitarian purpose, its sole purpose being to draw in humans in one way or another.  One critical point in our assignment is for the Folie design to incur 'learning'.  However, the word 'learning' has been told to be used quiet loosely, or to create our own relevant definition for it for this project.

There is a lot to consider for this assignment, but i think above all else, contextually this Folie must fit well within its immediate surrounding, encompassing the cliffs, story bridge and CBD.  It must also offer benefits for not only the people who are purposefully visiting the sight, but also for the majority of people who will be using the site as a thorough fare between New Farm and the CBD.

(Views of the site, displaying its direct connection with the iconic Story Bridge and the CBD)