Key Aspects:
Function
Centuries ago, people gathered in a single place to discuss matters, but nowadays societies have increased in population and spaces of the past cannot accommodate them. However, print and digital media have now enhanced communication on discussion of matters of the state. We have television shows, internet sites, blog and polls but do these mediums allow direct communication with the federal government? We think not, as was explored in the first project.
Yet, allowing the public to have an active role in the parliamentary chambers may cause security concerns but not having them have a role excludes their presence and voice that reflects position in their country.
This is an age where technology is advancing and where communication can be easily exchanged through text, email, and web chats. This technology has the potential to integrate the public’s voice within the parliamentary chambers without raising security risks. I am proposing that a virtual presence within the parliamentary chambers is the solution of communication between the public and the parliament members without raising security risks.
But, support services are required to make discussion between the public and members of parliament be significant.
Centres for Public Consultation are being proposed to assist in the successfully implementation of the proposed new function of public consultation in the legislative process. Through imposing the centres into the existing building fabric of the Parliament House in Canberra, it gives the public a purpose and power rather than existing as a visitor/tourist without a voice.
Form
The forms are intended to boldly interpose on either side of the flagpole on the existing Parliament House building.
The form has been influenced by the flagpole on top of Parliament House.
Movement
It has been influenced by movement – the flow of the glass roof slope directs the eye up to the presence of the iconic flagpole.
Emphasis
To attract viewers/passersby, emphasis on the point of attraction is through the emergence of the fold-like structures.
Unity - Balance
The atmosphere of unity aims to be achieved through the symmetrical balance – placement of the centres at either sides of the flagpole.
Contrast
The play on contrast on the exterior against the rigid light-coloured stone (existing building fabric) and the interruption of the protruding dark metal (proposed extension building fabric).
Transparency
Utilising a transparent lightweight structure to create an openness to the external environment and visible to the spectators on the various levels of proposed centres. The transparent structures to also embody/signify the voice of the people.
Flexibility
Transformation & Interaction – Shading Device
A series of uniquely shaped cells retract back into the structural profile of the roof to allow natural daylight to enter into the chambers and views to the above sky that was once hidden in the previous structure. This system also reduces solar gain and glare. The cells also shade the interior by computerised control through an algorithm that involves historic solar gain data with real-time sensing of light levels.
Other windows on the centres utilise the same system but inhabitants can request to control each window.
Adaption – Flexible Space
Future change can be easily adapted through interior spaces that require utilising movable partitions rather than a permanent wall. Spaces are open to enable diverse range of function from workspace, relaxation, and entertainment.
