CONCEPT WORK

This is the idea i have had stuck in my head all week. I want to use an elliptical base which gradually forms a circle, to then go into a twisting offset square a the peak. I was imagining that an organic skin would envelop the base of the tower, up to around mid point, fading out as reflective or coloured window glass emerged from the tower. This will provide an extremely unique building, providing a beacon an possible icon to the area.

This was another idea that i sketched up which relates more to the entrance, also providing the symmetrical element.

This one was the north facing building, with the positioning enabling plenty of room on the north side of the tower which could be utilised for a pool and spa area. The only issues i have with this is the entrance to the site. It covers two roads as a pass through. However, overall i believe it works. After completing the site analysis though, i believe that Wickham Street is the street to which this site must address. A more front on design to this street may be beneficial. The corner however can work, as it is almost an invitation to the Valley from the Brisbane side.

The design below caters for everything i wanted to accomplish, however it almost turns its back on the surrounding areas. This has been done before however (Jupiters on the Gold Coast), but this site is close to a train station, as well as the city, so the need for local traffic accommodation isn't as strong. In one way, coming from the train station side of the site, the tower would be overlooking this area (front of tower), but coming from Brisbane it would almost look like the tower was shunning that side. It also fails to interact with Wickham Street. I think movement in this plan would need work.

This design below was influenced by Vegas Casinos (or some of them at least). I looked at the Bellagio mainly, as well as influences from treasure island and mirage. I wanted to incorporate a symmetrical design, and also give some of the space back to the public. This was a tricky one to work out in terms of where things should go. I ended up putting the recreational / pool space one level below the entrance level, accessible by going underneath the car entrance outside the front doors of the tower. This provides interest for walkers passing the site. It also engages with Wickham Street and enables the rest of the site to be built on. Even though the tower will dominate the space, on ground level it is almost 50/50 with built form and natural environment.