Thesis: The project thesis is “Sculpting Space”. This title derives from the extensive research undertaken for the studio’s precedent research work on Alvaro Siza’s projects. It resonates with the langauge of architecture within Siza’s buildings and its constant use of sculptural language be it in the making of the form of the building, the level changes within the topography and the building, the extrusion of ceilings, or the rising of internal floors. The thesis title explores the concept of sculpting from the exterior to the interior and from the positive to the negative spaces. The project aims to create a relationship between the site, the river, and the city backdrops.
Brief + Programme: The brief set out for the unit was to design a place of exchange and interaction with public and private spaces. The programme of the building was not set in the brief requirements and is open to individuals’ interpretation of the requirements of the brief. Hence, the programme chosen for the project is a Youth Centre with urban hardscape. Given my own experience and interest in being a founding member of a youth organisation, I am aware of the importance of having such facilities available to the younger generation of our communities. Therefore, the primary objective of the facilities will be an exchange of skillset, knowledge, and development for future career opportunities, which will ultimately increase the future economy of the city (a valuable exchange for the locality) and provide a place of social interaction for the youth. Research of existing facilities concluded that the proposed youth centre will be the first in the locality and immediate context of Vila Nova De Gaia.
‘As a frustrated sculptor he chose space as his clay’ – Alexandre Alves Costa