inFORM studio

The Thorn Apple Valley redevelopment is an analysis into the adaptive reuse of a collection of processing and manufacturing facilities for the future use of office space and distribution for an urban school district.  Through a series of diagrams, this study illustrates attributes of the existing site, circulation and structures that require careful consideration as it relates to a typological transformation.  

The study is comprised of an evaluation and strategy for the urban development as a whole but more specifically addresses the overall strategy as it relates to the specificity of each structure within the area.  Predicated by the project scope, urban design concepts are considered through introductions within the architecture.  A brief observation of the site makes it evident that the existing context must demonstrate a new sensitivity to a secure environment, building orientation, scale and pedestrian access.  Individual projects are linear in their sequence of thought, as the project scope has increased.  However, relationships are facilitated between buildings as each new project is added to the scope.  The study is a new paradigm in thought as one explores collective building design as an individual urban design.

The adaptive re-use of the Berry Terminal for general office operations for the Wayne County Airport Authority considered two approaches based on the feasibility study and space program provided:

Conventional Approach

The conventional approach embraces an infill strategy consistent with the initial feasibility study. The programming is organized within large floor plates to accommodate adjacencies. This strategy is relatively invasive to the existing structure but is the most economically efficient solution for accommodating the required square footage. However, there are several negative repercussions that result from this approach:

• Destroys the integrity of the existing qualitative space

• Eliminates numerous opportunities for daylighting and resulting energy reduction

• Contributes to internal corridors resulting in difficulty for wayfinding and circulation efficiencies

• Reduces potential for exterior views to a minimal level which increases probability of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)

• Eliminates the possibility of Natural Ventilation and associated energy savings

• Does not acknowledge a sense of entry compatible with new typology without further exterior renovations

• WCAA identity is not considered with any exterior manifestation

Innovative Approach

An alternative approach is to implement a strategy of addition. The introduction of a slender bar of program integrates a design form specifically for office typology and optimizes the overall project for the introduction of sustainable principles into the architectural form of the existing and new:

• Maintains the spatial integrity of the existing structure and connects all three levels visually with the existing atrium, providing very clear visual connections for large floor plates improving circulation and wayfinding

• Introduction of daylighting to the majority of spaces

• Repurposing the existing skylight shaft as a heat chimney creates a stack effect improving ventilation

• High performance building envelope would enclose the new square footage and a portion of the existing structure helping to reduce the overall energy usage

• Formation of quality exterior courtyard spaces with the orientation and form of the new office bar

• Integration of numerous views to landscape areas for quality of interior space

• New building façade creates an identity for the WCAA and integrates a clarity of entrance into the building form

• Formal strategy contributes greatly to LEED points and reduces the need for more costly mechanical systems to gain energy efficiencies required

The Garland Street study, and the ensuing renovation, is illustrative of the nation’s renewed interest in urban living and the many benefits these types of projects can bring to our quality of life.  This study yields tremendous potentials but not without many of the challenges facing so many urban renewal plans, primarily cost. Important aspects considered in the evaluation of this study are the identification of it as a catalyst project and as recognition of the context around it.

The development of a proposed conceptual site plan is an important step in evaluating the feasibility of how this collection of structures and space can operate as a cohesively planned unit development.  Given the interstitial nature of the site situated between residential, commercial and educational, a mixed-use project with a diverse set of typologies is the most appropriate solution programmatically.

The Berridge Place building is the anchor of the project.  It provides more density and the most essential mix of program of any of the proposed renovated structures within the study. The existing exterior boasts a wonderful architectural quality, yet the interior requires a complete transformation.  This renovation although extensive provides an excellent opportunity for diverse residential units appealing to a broad range of prospective residents.  The mix of retail at the lower level addresses a very public corner and provides an opportunity for much-needed, convenient market-type store to the area.