learn about
UPWARD SPIRAL
why the spiral?
The healing process is experienced as spiral-like rather than a straight incline. It is chaotic, bumpy and unpredictable but just as life moves in circles, it is an essential process of the healing journey
spatial strategies
form
Inserted through the first void of the Boiler House, Upward Spiral is a spiral staircase which juxtaposes against the linear and rigid morphology of the existing site. It mimics the volume of Boiler 1 that is sits in the fourth void to communicate the relationship existing and extant. It offers a sense of fluidity as people circulate and allows for multiple views of the site and nature that would otherwise be missed if a linear approach was taken.
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It was vital that the existing voids were not covered but embraced so placing the highest area of foot traffic through the voids allowed people the experience them at a personal level and truly appreciate the magnitude of the Boiler House.
EDI
Inclusive access - both spiral staircase and lift ​
braille on balustrade for visually impaired
material palette
Strong, soft and calm were key qualities that I wanted to evoke in upward spiral and its materials. This restrained material palette allow people to focus on their journey of healing as they circulate throughout whilst the wood effect tiles offers calmness that wood psychology provides
1. lime render in Cubitt CON1 by BishopMasterFinishes
2. Wood effect tiles in brown walnut
3. Trimless fixed spotlight by JSB Lighting
4. Custom reflective mirror to fit stair treads