Sam Jones - Design 3

D3: La Ciudad Porosa - Torn Tradition: Residential + Community Project

In early 2019 I was lucky enough to spend many weeks overseas in Sevilla, where this project was based. We were tasked with inserting a residential complex into the dense, torn urban fabric of the Sevilla Feria. The complex also needed to provide work opportunities for those that live on site. Torn Tradition looks at re-implementing the fragmented Sevillan tradition of Ceramics as a way of ‘repairing the mould’ of site and reigniting a forgotten trade. Semi-private Courtyards present themselves as spaces of Earth, Wind, Water and Fire, reflecting the deconstructed material components of the ceramic. The lost artistry of Ceramics is reignited by decorative artists that live and work on-site, where on-site studios encourage communal reparation through inviting, immersive public experiences. These experiences play on the conceived role of the viewer, serving as a series of moments that transform the onlooker into the subject; thus, becoming the ‘maker’.

Axonometric: Early Site Analysis

North Elevation: Traditional Moorish design elements complimented by contemporary approaches to Seville pattern & decoration.

Site Axonometric: A series of enclosed and open spaces across multiple storeys.

Sectional Perspective: Stacked residences around an interior courtyard provide a shared social and living environment.

Quite self-explanatory, really.

Studio Experience Axonometric: A public path through the Studios goes underground into a multi-sensory experience of the ceramic elements. The path emerges above ground in the second studio, where a swooping path immerses the viewer within the artist environment. The path returns to ground level where it now faces the 'Makers Space', where the participant is now encouraged to make their own ceramics; thus, flipping the role of artist and viewer.

Studio Experience Axonometric: A public path through the Studios goes underground into a multi-sensory experience of the ceramic elements: The rammed-earth walls represent the Earth, followed by brick walls and a warmer climate in reference to the kiln: Fire. A fine mist is sprayed as you follow steps up to the surface, representing the water element. Finally, the participant walks out into the open, representing the air and the cooling of the ceramic upon completion.

Studio Path + Water Courtyard: The swooping path allows views down on artists, whilst allowing a view across to the Water Courtyard and the Makers Space: Where the viewer becomes the maker.

Air Courtyard: A traditional Islamic-style courtyard greets those that enter site from the North.

I don't think this needs an explanation.

Fire Courtyard: In plan view, the arrangement of jagged planes form a ceramic pattern. The irregular heights form different levels of seating and eating space around a communal tagine pot - the traditional method of cooking.

Earth Courtyard: This green labrynth attempts to give residents momentary relief from the dense urban fabric. At the centre of the maze are benches and fountains for a spot of relaxation amongst the bustling complex.

Click the button below to view the exhibition that this project was a part of!