Tag: Threshold

Writ in Water

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  • Credit National Trust
  • Credit National Trust

There are very few buildings which actually move me. This is one. The historical significance may be a factor but I love the geometrical rigour; the simple yet effective threshold spaces; the sensory experience created through balance of textured and smooth, variation of temperature according to material or position, changes in volume and light, the quiet and calm or the sound of rain; and the human dimension communicated not only through the message on the water but also with the use of a human-centric form of measurement, the cubit.

This project resonates quite deeply with the issues with which I’m grappling for my D4 design project, an independent living centre for autistic adults.

Learning by design

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Classroom of the Future, Mossbrook School, by Sarah Wigglesworth 2003

Designed with autistic children in mind. Key features: clarity and geometry of structure; geometric spatial division on grid; variety of volumes for different functions; design to form part of learning; design offers sensory experience; closeness to and interaction with nature

https://www.swarch.co.uk/work/mossbrook-school/

Liminal circulation

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  • Photo by Jo Underhill

St Teresa School 6th Form by IF_DO. Based on traditional cloister and college typologies, circulation is externalised, yet defined by a sheltered colonnade. The colonnade creates a liminal space, tying the user to the surrounding nature, yet guiding and preparing them for the classroom. The threshold is achieved through shelter, change in volume, change in material, and a formal route.

Images available at: https://www.dezeen.com/2019/01/21/if-do-st-teresa-school-surrey-architecture/

Thresholds

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My D4 project is a threshold in itself: a place of transition between autistic adults living in care and living independently.

On a more detailed level, the notion of thresholds is particularly important to the scheme. Sudden changes in the experienced space, whether by variation of volume, colour, function etc, are challenging experiences for many autistic people with sensory difficulties. Thresholds should be designed in a way that prepares the user for what lies ahead, giving enough clarity to dare move forward, whilst providing an opportunity to pause and get ready.

Boettger, T. (2014) Threshold Spaces: Transitions in Architecture, Analysis and Design Tools. Basel: Birkhauser.