Reclaim . Reuse . Reinvent
Eisteddfod Festival Hall
Wales is the home of the National Eisteddfod, a celebration of culture and language, yet also the home of an abundance of abandoned boats and scraped metal, Conwy is no exception. The addition of this new Festival Hall on the quay-side would celebrate the panoramic views, lighting opportunities and address an underlying waste management problem by Reclaiming, and Reusing scrap metal to Reinvent Conwy’s urban landscape.
Research
The site laid against a high wall and potruding turret, making in depth analysis critical to understanding how to approach the design. Lighting constraints was the main issue I encountered, leading to the implementation of lighting devices. As well as this was the location of scrapyards and wrecked boats for sourcing metal, the distribution of public and private spaces and significant transport connections.
Solution to a problem
The idea behind this project was to address the underlying environmental issue that the town of Conwy, as well as many other UK areas have. Boats are left to rot and decay along the shoreline and marina, creating not only an environmental problem but a visual one, as this destroys the beauty and wonder of this historic place. My solution was to reclaim the scrap metal from the old ships, treat it and remodel it, then use it to create elements of the festival hall, such as exterior cladding and stage design. A multifunctional building with an environmental statement.
A flexible environment
One of the main requirements for the festival hall was for it to include a multifunctional space that acts as both a performange area with stage, seats and control room. As well as an Event space with room for tables, chairs and place for serving food/drinks. My approach to this was to utilise the stage to be multipurpose, by having the stage move up and down in its inner part and outer rim, it could be used for both dynamic performances as well as a bar for serving drinks and food. The seating would also be retractable and fold up against the wall to clear space
Construction Section
SouthWest Section
Wrap up
The overall project aim was to create a presence on the Conwy marina that would fit in with its historical setting as well as celebrate the culture of the town. My approach was different as from my first visit I could not take notice of the blatant lack of environmental consciousness, with wreckage littering the shore. As a counter I did a lot to ensure the building performed well and sustainably, i.e with the North lights, mounted movable solar panels, grey water harnessing and cross ventilation. With these needs met, the opportunity to make a statement and do a service to the town would be to clean up the mess along the shoreline and repurpose it to help create the festival hall. In the end, I would hope this could be a reminder and warning for the coastal towns, but also a fantastic place for the community to come together, celebrate and enjoy the spectacular views from the harbour.
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