This Project was centred around a 14th century Gatehouse, one of the only surviving from this period, an intervention was required that would not only provided restorative measures but also forge a connection with the surrounding community that was severed and isolated by collapsed industries and poor city planning. 

 

After extensive primary and secondary research, it was concluded that the new structural additions would function as community spaces to enable better local cohesion, whilst also operating as a community support centre, that would tackle the areas key issues; such as drug use and financial instability. To be respectful to the pre-existing Gate house, any addition had to be simplistic and efficient in its use of space as not to question the Gatehouses grandeur and form. 

 

Not only would the project fulfil its functions on its interior, it would also act as a social hub from an exterior perspective with Its grounds hosting local trade markets and community events. The design can from the drive to connect with the local history through materials, so an exterior storage system was integrated to hold key materials, such as brewing equipment, mining waste and historical relics such as cornices from the priory ruin. This storage system is mimicked on the interior to host more precious artefacts for the community to value. 

 

Due to the site security and social issues, materials on the Structure had to be very durable. However, to provide a greater sense of ownership of the space to the community, it had to remain visibly fragile to emit a sense of trust. This was achieved through the use of a multicell polycarbonate that could withstand the hardware and use, whilst being transparent like glass, making it seem fragile. 

 

To form a greater connection between the new and old aspects of the project, joint elements were 3d printed to match the geometry and curvature of the gate houses stonework. The 3d printed elements utilised a sandstone based mortar to provide the best colour fit.