TIM  LAHAISE  ARCHITECT

After an underdeveloped and lacklustre Unit-wide masterplan proposal, myself and 3 other students were selected to revisit the design and remake the Aberdeen waterfront areas in our own vision. Within this proposal I explored how Aberdeen’s often-bemoaned light and weather conditions could be considered advantageous characteristics of the design. Nordic lighting and urban planning concepts were a major inspiration, in particular the concept of Hygge: described as the comfortable feeling of soft warm light against dark winter nights.

 

The planning was based around concepts such as the 20-minute neighborhood; prioritising walkability and cyclability to promote sustainable modes of travel and reduce reliance on cars. The plan is divided into blocks by a branching network of pedestrianised streets and one-way roads which connect the main points of interest in the area. Within each block, residential and commercial properties are mixed to ensure each amenity is within walking or cycling distance. Informed by combining both Mediterranean and Scandinavian influences, each building is free standing to provide quality lighting year round, with scattered orientation to create intrigue and encourage exploration. Additionally, the planning is designed to be in keeping with the urban grain of Footdee.

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This project was commended by the university and was ultimately selected independently by the Royal Scottish Academy for exhibition at the New Contemporaries 2023 Exhibition in Edinburgh, as one of just 6 architecture exhibits selected from graduate projects across the country.