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Ground Floor Use
It is seen that for the site to succeed in it's entirety, existing ground floor space should be occupied in order to establish active ground floors creating an engaging public realm. Temporary uses of these spaces could consist of:
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Co-working space
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Arts exhibitions and performance spaces
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Space for pop-up local businesses
As the site develops, it is intended that these existing ground floors become home to amenities and services dedicated to serving the local community such as shops, places to eat, pharmacies alongside co-working spaces and community space.
SketchUp model of redesigned offices
Active Waterfront
Alongside active ground floors, the space on the doorstep of these amenities need to be vibrant and inviting spaces by:
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Greening the space using trees and planting, also benefiting air quality and providing shade in the summer
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Allowing businesses such as restaurants and cafes, as well as co-working to 'spill out' into the public space with seating and spaces for people to relax
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Encouraging street vendors and market stalls to use the waterfront here as well as at market square
SketchUp model of redesigned offices
Improved Facade
The existing facades of ABP Phase 1 were assessed as dull and unpleasant in the group site analysis. These office buildings create an uninviting and bland experience so it is important the facades are sustainably improved by:
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Use of green walls: these can brighten and energise the appearance of the buildings as well as serve a benefit to the environment and biodiversity.
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Use of varied materials: Varying the materials across the buildings, using forms of fireproof cladding of various materials and colours to bring interest and colour to the currently bland landscape.
SketchUp model of redesigned offices
Risks & Issues Addressed
Issues Addressed
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Addressing the need to activate currently unused ground floor units through meanwhile to permanent uses
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Ensuring all public spaces are well used and vibrant
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Improving the repetitive and dull facade of the office buildings
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Creating green space which is currently lacking, improving sustainability
Risks of Proposals
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Plans for ground floor use do not stimulate enough activity and use to help drive the continued success of the site
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Adding planting and uses to the waterfront clutters the space making it less accessible