Shelters and kiosk
The shelters and kiosk are a family of structures each one distinctive yet unified by a basic programme of forms, intended to create intrigue from within, nearby and afar. The design plays with the curves of the De La Warr Pavilion and draws form from the sound mirrors at Dungeness.
The shelters comprise of curved or domed steel shells enclosed in a glass envelope with either barrel vaulted or pitched roofs. Envisaged as a means of enhancing the visual and aural connection of users with their natural and urban surroundings, polished concave surfaces reflect shapes and colours of the neighbouring architecture and seascape whilst their parabolic forms mimic the acoustic qualities of the sound mirrors. Instead of withdrawing the user, the shelter offers an alternative, enhanced experience of the environment throughout the seasons.
The intimacy, volume and proportion of the spaces is central to their appeal. The semi-circular plan creates an equal degree of peripheral exposure and physical enclosure. A solid wooden bench provides a tactile interface for the rester. Its simple shape allows for alternate sitting positions and facilitates multiple uses for the shelters.
In differing light conditions and from various perspectives the shelters appear either ethereal and elusive or as primary archetypes. This duality is enhanced by the reflectivity of the glass. The negative space in between glass and steel shells will be lit to define their shapes by night while the seating areas will remain subtly lit. This lighting gradually alters in colour defining the shelters after dark and adding to the night-time ambiance of the seafront.
The design of the kiosk follows the basic premise of the shelters, materially and visually and provides an architectural bookend to the sequence of structures. Like the shelters it gives equal importance to the beach as to the town by opening to both sides, allowing additional flexibility in different seasons and weather conditions. Opening panels on both elevations act as dual sunshade and counter.
The kiosk and shelter's main structure is high grade stainless steel, resistant to the effects of the maritime environment and easily re-polished if defaced. The shelter's envelope is solar reflective glass which provides additional shading. This glass, toughened and laminated with protected edges, can be easily replaced if damaged. The lighting can be supported by means of solar cells integrated into the high level glazing. All materials are robust and can stand up well to the tough natural and urban environment.
The shelters and kiosk are a family of structures each one distinctive yet unified by a basic programme of forms, intended to create intrigue from within, nearby and afar. The design plays with the curves of the De La Warr Pavilion and draws form from the sound mirrors at Dungeness.
The shelters comprise of curved or domed steel shells enclosed in a glass envelope with either barrel vaulted or pitched roofs. Envisaged as a means of enhancing the visual and aural connection of users with their natural and urban surroundings, polished concave surfaces reflect shapes and colours of the neighbouring architecture and seascape whilst their parabolic forms mimic the acoustic qualities of the sound mirrors. Instead of withdrawing the user, the shelter offers an alternative, enhanced experience of the environment throughout the seasons.
The intimacy, volume and proportion of the spaces is central to their appeal. The semi-circular plan creates an equal degree of peripheral exposure and physical enclosure. A solid wooden bench provides a tactile interface for the rester. Its simple shape allows for alternate sitting positions and facilitates multiple uses for the shelters.
In differing light conditions and from various perspectives the shelters appear either ethereal and elusive or as primary archetypes. This duality is enhanced by the reflectivity of the glass. The negative space in between glass and steel shells will be lit to define their shapes by night while the seating areas will remain subtly lit. This lighting gradually alters in colour defining the shelters after dark and adding to the night-time ambiance of the seafront.
The design of the kiosk follows the basic premise of the shelters, materially and visually and provides an architectural bookend to the sequence of structures. Like the shelters it gives equal importance to the beach as to the town by opening to both sides, allowing additional flexibility in different seasons and weather conditions. Opening panels on both elevations act as dual sunshade and counter.
The kiosk and shelter's main structure is high grade stainless steel, resistant to the effects of the maritime environment and easily re-polished if defaced. The shelter's envelope is solar reflective glass which provides additional shading. This glass, toughened and laminated with protected edges, can be easily replaced if damaged. The lighting can be supported by means of solar cells integrated into the high level glazing. All materials are robust and can stand up well to the tough natural and urban environment.