Studio 08
2070
Benjamin Lau
Studio Description
The world population is predicted to peak at 9.4 billion around 2070 with two-thirds of the world population living in cities. At the turn of this century when Melbourne decided to densify mainly within the Hoddle Grid and South Bank by developing upwards rather than expanding outwards, we have been experiencing the fastest urban densification in Australia’s history.
Students will experience the challenges of urban densification alongside with other global issues faced by most architects nowadays. This thesis studio will design a super tall development complex at the heart of Melbourne CBD for the future based on science fiction predictions of technology, future climatic and sociological issues. Dense development does not necessary mean starting from ground zero, we should respect the local culture of our place and our rich history.
Studio Outcomes
This thesis studio will design to the highest permissible FAR of 18:1 without comprising our urban environment and the quality of architecture. Critical issues due to rapid urbanisation will be identified through research and in-depth discussion, meanwhile design methodology and modern technology will be explored to overcome these. The structure of this studio will be in two parts – Masterplan and architecture, with emphasis on public realm, sustainable and Space Positive design. Students are required to develop their own complex briefs for a 24/7 multi-use development including offices, hotels, apartments, Retail Dining & Entertainment, other public and community functions.
Studio Leader
Benjamin Lau is a Design Partner of Farrells who has led many key projects of the practice in the Asia Pacific region. Farrells is renowned for place-making and sensitivity to public realm. Working between the Farrells offices in London, Hong Kong and Australia for over twenty years, he is specialised in mixed-use urban design, integrated complexes and transportation. Time after time, Benjamin’s deft combination of cultural sensitive architecture and public realm sensitive urban design has produced mixed-use destinations renowned for vitality, beauty and multifaceted complexity.
Readings & References
- Shaping London - Sir Terry Farrell
- 10 things to know about the impacts of urbanisation - ODI
- Central Melbourne Design Guide – City of Melbourne
- Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design with Nature – Douglas Farr
- Cities without Ground, a guidebook to Hong Kong's elevated walkways - Adam Frampton Jonathan D. Solomon & Clara Wong
- 2040 film - Damon Gameau
- Rapid Urbanisation and Urban Resilience – UNSW (www.youtube.com/watch?v=QbJg62zvEC0)
- Urbanization and the future of cities - Vance Kite (www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKnAJCSGSdk)
Schedule Thursdays 15:15-18:15, Fridays 09:00-12:00