The thesis explores the notion of placemaking through a variety of studies. Initially through investigating my own identity, progressing to looking to places. Specifically, Dover and The City of London.
1. A response to the White Cliffs of Dover, the countries natural ‘edge’.
The proposed volume is set into the landscape, revealing itself as the land falls away. The volumes formality contrasts against the cliff edge, with numerous footpaths marked in the chalky soil. Footpaths were explored in the investigations into my own identity, the ritual nature of walking and the informal marks left by them. The proposal aims to respond and highlight these paths.
2. The City, London’s the Charterhouse is located on the city’s historic edge.
This study examines its growth from a 16th c. monastery up until today, studying how its architecture has responded to both the cities edge and the monks’ daily rituals.
These investigations have culminated in a synthesis, embodied by the project explored at St-Margaret’s-at-Cliffe. A village neighbouring Dover’s western edge, the South Foreland Valley. Within which lie a composition of roads, built for a housing development in the 1900’s which was never realised. just as the paths explored previously, these abandoned roads have been left marking the landscape.
The proposal explores this western, predominately residential edge. Exploring a way in which it may develop and provide new homes. Investigating how typologies may differ to the detached homes of the 1900’s plan. Taking influence from the Charterhouse’s Carthusian typology, the scheme is proposed in a more dense manner. Minimising disruption to the landscape and allowing for more green space across the area. The proposal comprises a community hall, farm shop and large allotments in the valley floor, this provision aims to foster a community spirit as well as integrate the new residents within the existing community through collaborative action.
