Architecture that belongs
How can material systems in architecture shape the conditions for spatial, and public belonging through the transformation of abandoned quarries?
S. van Apeldoorn (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
Alper Alkan – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
Johan van Lierop – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
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Abstract
This research investigates how architecture can create conditions for spatial and public belonging. This is done through the transformation of an abandoned granite quarry in Colmenar Viejo, Spain. This research draws on theory based on material systems, co-optive and constructive making, material and spatial continuity, and situated practice. It is acknowledged that belonging is not a fixed result or something that can be created, but should be approached as a set of conditions. These conditions are translated into criteria based on the theoretical framework, which provides two principles: transform without displacing, and co-optive making before constructive making. To map the quarry, photogrammetry techniques are used. This provides a sufficiently detailed 3D model that can be used to study the quarry walls, edges, and level differences, allowing a co-optive approach. Further research was done into excavation techniques. Two methods are suitable for granite extraction, which are drill and blast and diamond wire cutting, both of which are used in this project. This results in gaining material that can be used for constructive making and spaces that can be co-opted. Research by design shows that there is a conflict between a co-optive approach and a program-led approach. The planned event space is flexible in program and can therefore easily be adapted based on the conditions of the quarry. The restaurant is less flexible in its program and was less suitable for a co-optive approach. Material continuity is achieved by using the excavated granite in the new building and by making the transformation of the material legible. The main finding of the research is that excavation can act as a mediator between co-optive and constructive making. Spatial conditions are continued by creating new spaces that can be co-opted, and material conditions are continued by producing granite, which can be transformed and used on site for new construction. This way, architectural belonging is approached by continuing the logic of the quarry.