And in came the materials...

Modeling units for studios

Here is a series of speculations about how the rest of the space could be used in the future, the space is grand and could easily accommodate a host of studio spaces. tbc

Subterranean possibilities

As pointed out by Nick, a subterranean structure would boast a whole series of benefits from insulation, to some soundproofing so here I have briefly explored this concept. Unfortunately in this case it is not suitable due to the level of ground removal that would be required.  

Initial space modeling

I have started modeling the first space, the potential exhibition, performance, concert space. These models are working rudimentary models used to explore the space in relation to the DLR bridge and the Birds Nest pub next door. The containers in the images consist of 40ft, 20ft and 10ft, the main area is composed of three containers sandwiched together.

Lets recycle windows

This are taken from superuse.org, they are an architectural collective that are seemingly recycling the world, any surplus or industrial remnant they find uses for and some quite amazing ones at that. In this vein, recycled UPVC windows will adorn the steel containers, they are of course double glazed and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Straight in there!

So there has been no messing around on this site, it has been quite essential to get the ball rolling and people in so we have revised the initial model to open up the space for a spaciousness the original model may have deprived. We have two containers recently situated in the space, £1,500 each, they are prefab inside and relatively spacious. The have been placed directly against the wall mainly to open up and fully allow as much of the space to shine as possible. The idea with these two initially is to clad and insulate the tops to form two more spaces, utilising the recycled windows as displayed with appropriate stairwells either side. These additional spaces will provide a second floor almost within the space to be used by either the container residents or additional ones. The third photo down portrays the alternative perspective the second floor affords. 

Another cheeky area!

Ok John ok, it seems... John has another space, equally as exciting as the first, he's held it back until now and what can I say about it? It's, well... fantastic, industrial, raw, with a robust character which emanates from its original use as a mechanics yard and the structure is just as left. It's a relatively simple space as the pictures illustrate. It sits exactly opposite the site of the first. Composed of huge faded red and yellow steel girders, a steel and plastic corrugated roof and two sets of steel doors dividing the space into thirds. At the very back of the space there's a huge red steel platform, almost a stage with a secure area underneath. The floor is concrete, slightly uneven in places and contributes positively to its flavor, light seeps in from the one meter gap between the space the building adjacent of whose huge bricked up and broken windows provide additional character, perfect cavities for a lighting installation of some kind, again this could be a project that I put forward to some people on the course or a group of children?  

This space as opposed to the other, is going to have to utilised relatively quickly due to its present stagnating. Immediate thoughts are to transform it minimally into a working studio area with a basic exhibition space with potential for market areas also, it could quite easily be divided into 3 generous spaces each boasting a plethora of floor space and of course accompanying complementary ceiling proportions.

Sound Mitigation

Oh yes, sound mitigation, here we go! If we are to have a venue hosting an array of functions, gigs, exhibitions, concerts, film showing etc... then there are obviously conditions relating to the dispersal of sound as we have surrounding dwellings. Firstly we have the Birds Nest pub which houses a hostel on its upper floors, we have flats on the opposite side of the road which are of primary concern and then we have the house boats which anchor directly opposite the pub. There are various measures that can be taken to avoid intruding their air space. Here are a few factors that we have to consider in conclusion with the recent tour with Nick the sound mitigation man :

- Sound mitigation report is essential for a live venue

- Light sound referencing is required  for theatre use

- People leaving at night and loitering on streets for taxi's and causing noise is an issue

- Can we use the exit as an alternative

- Could we use the bus as a waiting ground

- 3-4" of rock wool- 2 layers of plaster board

- Ventilation also paramount

- Summer-winter temperature fluctuations 

- Lower frequency noise penetrates greater than higher

- Elevating the unit could reduce the noise leakage 

- Steel transmits and distributes heat

- A subterranean structure would aid insulation

- Security will have to be implemented

- Sound levels: a) 80 decibels-bar with noise b) 90 people dancing c) 100 rock and roll up

- Green roofs will enhance sound proofing and heat loss

- Sound proofed spaced are in relative demand

- Lobby doors provide additional sound proofing 

- £40 sqm overall costs

- £20 sqm material costs

Possible uses for the space

There are a multitude of functions that the space could perform and the options of which we are going to interrogate. We have divided the spaces use up into 4 categories and included an array of issues that surround each of those factors:

Studio spaces

As we have decided that shipping containers are going to form the main fabric of the architectural units, we have to consider the allocated amount of space that users need to exercise their craft/profession, so perhaps I need to document the type of use of space within some of the units on Creekside already. Fine artists understandably require more generous dimensions, whereas graphic artists, jewelers, textile designers require a much smaller space. I have witnessed first hand containers being used for studios over at container city so fear not! 

Entertainment/exhibition/mixed use/art space

Designing a unit that can potentially morph for specific uses in this instance is probably the most productive use as it could harmoniously combine music/exhibition/performance, think 'Proud' in Camden. 

One of the processes I'm always keen to engage with is recruiting opinions from potential space users, particularly regarding issues such as these: which reminds me... it would be good to contact the crazy Claire. 

The bus

Again this will depend on the designated use of the space, it could form again a multitude of functions from a cafe, exhibition space, studio space or a waiting area for taxis after the potential gigs have finished. Cathy, a local culture vulture has shown interest in utilising the space for a beautiful little haven during an annual Deptford festival. My initial thoughts about the bus flourished around the idea of renovating it to something of its former glory but a recent visit to Berlin has rapidly seen this notion revised! 

Weekend markets

Markets, markets, markets. This neck of the wood is home to some already legendary markets, we have the Greenwich indoor delight which boasts an array of world cuisines, the hog roast is particularly sublime, a fat ciabatta, cushions of rocket supporting generous wedges of juicy pork, gorgeous. Also, homemade, leather, ethical and sustainable goods, a bazaar of all things tactile. Deptford, also along the high street holds its famous Wednesday market attracting hordes  mostly from the south, more second hand goods are on offer here, reminiscent of a car boot/jumble sale explosion which, affording a little time and patience always surfaces a few unannounced treasures. Of course, how rude of me not to briefly mention the Caribbean food stall, the holder of which, a legend and integral to the aura of the market, although granted, if you don't make it early enough his stocks of his home-made jerk chicken and pork will vanish without a trace. He makes his own patties also which require a standing ovation (he has just revised his pastry, it has a wonderful bite now and has lost the greasiness common in these patties). Also we have another small market which is run along side the Deptford Project so there are many, whether we could infiltrate, collaborate, a network of small markets that are promoted as a 'Deptford' unit, similar to Brick Lane Sunday/weekend markets, we shall see.

A market could also be a way of whipping up a little interest in the areas renovations!

Greenwich Food Market

Whilst on route back from Container City I briefly documented the food court market in Greenwich, as a derivative could be an option for the space down in Creekside. It could exist within the space as a moveable structure due to the confines of the planning permission that overrule. Containers again could be something that offer this multi-purpose function. This particular market operates within a prime yet confined space with seating offerings either end.