FIELD 3: Children’s Aid Society Melrose Village

TINY RELATIONS

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THE SITE :

Hundred and thirteen trees, thirty-eight species, three meters to thirty meters in height;

Fourteen meteres of gradual level difference, a naturally charming terrain;

Nestled amidst low-rise surroundings, vastness of view to sky,

and open field,

of peace,

of seclusion,

of security,

of protection.

THE ABSTRACT :

Envisaged as a heterogenous village, where the notion of freedom to run free, unbounded but yet protected, multiple internal courtyards varying from intimate gardens to a central park are formed around existing trees and the natural slope. Nature is seen as a natural healing element where vulnerable residents of varying age-group begins their journey in building stable and long-term relations.

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HETEROGENITY OF SPACES

+ Interlocking modular volumes creates heterogenous spaces, revealing varying pocket of courtyards & park, evoking curiosity, creativity and imagination, giving identity to the residents.

FLEXIBILITY & BUILDABILITY

+ Varying size of modules afford flexibility in re-purposing of space-use for future structural program changes and ease of building.

NATURAL VENTILATION

+ All spaces are designed for maximum natural ventilation.

INFORMAL SPACES

+ Informal spaces within residents: living, dining and study celebrates individuality, planned to allow maximum flexibility for daily usage, hence freedom of mind and movement, minimizing fixed programmed spaces.

FORMAL SPACES

+ Formal spaces within residents: bedrooms, communal bathrooms, kitchen, office and sick bay are seen as regulated spaces to allow efficient carrying out of daily functions.

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With SM(ALL) Architects.