Proposal & Plan

In pertaining to the process of my re-brief, I will continue to re-define modern styling by supplementing it with contemporary culture. My projection on the future of architectural styles will be the result of imposing automotive styling techniques, concepts and ideas of geometry onto architecture.

Formal technique

These techniques are defined in the overall shape definition by structural feature, detail definition by detail feature, analysis of reflection lines, identification and manipulation of Aesthetic Key Lines (AKLs) and phases of semantic modelling which is a mathematical technique to ensure the flow and proportion of shape. These sculpting techniques will be both finishes and structures. The definition of each structure will be based on span, loading and support, and the decorative elements will be fused to the structure adding to the integrity of its performance. These structural elements will flow continuously through column to beam, where partitions will be clad when needed. 

The Aesthetics of Asymmetry

The geometrical design of the car 'cube' was based on the original concept of a pair of sunglasses.  This concept later evolved into a bulldog wearing sunglasses in order to give the design a little more charm.  The odd shape of this iconic car addresses the situation where cars have to frequently back up on tight roads. The designer decided to cut the rear windows asymmetrically to expand the rear view, giving its drivers greater confidence.  Nissan justified this new concept to western cultures by comparing the horse-drawn carriage with the Japanese oxcart. The oxcart was square and was a slower means of transportation but it had the priority of comfort and relaxation. This contemporary interpretation was based on the idea of tension-releasing slow cars from Japan.

I wish to introduce this play in geometry by re-defining the line of site in architecture and discarding the traditional ideals of symmetrical window arrangements that give the façade balance in aesthetics.  

Interior concept

Nissan designers recently conducted an investigation on defining lifestyle in developing their new car 'Teana'. They gave 30 prospective customers disposable cameras and asked them to take pictures of their favourite items in their homes.  When analyzing these pictures, Nissan concluded that consumers were very conscious of modern design and themed their interior modern living.

Unattainable lightness

The idea of 'Unattainable Lightness' was inspired by both Le Corbusier's Villa Savoye with its characteristic combination of steel and glass, and Zaha Hadid whose work originated from the process of structural calculation made possible through technological innovations. Nissan translated these ideas into their interior by;

- using wave-like curves that will add a calming or soothing feeling to its space

- creating an airy feel with their panels by letting pads float above the instrument panels and doors

- achieving lightness through emphasis on giving the interior certain depth

- focusing on eliminating unnecessary elements in the cabin

- extending the armrest and joining it to the seating surface to give the seating cushion and armrest the look and feel of a real sofa

Perceived quality

- providing the same degree of softness regardless of their material; everything that should be hard feels hard and everything which should feel soft is soft.

- reducing dividing lines on panels

Interior colour

- using lighter or darker colours to give interior a free-floating feel and making everything feel lighter

Smart textiles

Smart textiles are able to sense stimuli from the environment, to react to them and to adapt to them by integrating functionalities in the textile structure. The stimulus as well as the response can have an electrical, thermal, chemical, magnetic or other origin. These textiles serve as 5 basic functions, sensors, data processing, actuators, storage and communication. In cars these textiles are usually used in interior spaces. I wish to also incorporate these fabrics in my canopy designs.

Proposal

I propose to design a formula-one race track that is similar in size and in function to that of the new Yas Marina Circuit in Adu Dhabi. The Yas Island is 25kmsq; a manmade Island that was designed to be the dream entertainment destination. The island is a host to exclusive theme parks, hotels, residential areas and beaches. The circuit itself has 21 corners, 4 grand stands, underground pit lanes, team buildings behind pit buildings, media centre, dragster track, VIP tower and Ferrari building.

Seating capacity - 41,093

Area - 161.9 ha

Length - 5.5 km

I wish to design my circuit in the same prestige as the Yas Marina Circuit in India for their 2011 opening race.  The design of this new Circuit will not be culturally influenced by its location and will be a new reflection on modern architecture and a monument to automotive racing.