Instant Hotel @ Borella - Transport Oriented Development

University of Moratuwa (UoM), Faculty of Architecture, Department of Architecture, Moratuwa

Project idea

The proposed site is Borella- an urban zone in the city of Colombo, known for its highly development in commercial and transport oriented activities. As the city or the neighbored keeps developing, more people from outskirts are attracted into the city. Allocating space-temporary stay, for the locals and foreign tourist, especially for a very short time period is a major issue faced. When space is not available in close proximity to the city center, people spend more time and money on travelling, this is also a major reason for the increase in vehicular congestion in the city. It also increases the carbon footprint of the city. By introducing a concept called ‘Sojourn’, This design becomes is a creative approach to this problem.

Project description

Sojourn is a short, term capsule hotel which act as a transits spot. By designing this vertically in a High rise, the demand for space is reduced. As stated the function of this capsule hotel is a temporary stay for the cities transits passengers. Each capsule is designed with the minimum space allocation, while considering to anthropocentric and ergonomics. There are two types of capsule designs, according to the preferences of the users. An important factor in the building Is the LRT-light trail transit which is an in-built transport system. The location of the building is in very close proximity to bus stops and therefore, it promotes pedestrian movement. The building also has retails shops, cafeteria and public services such as ATM, vending machines and kiosks, to facilitate the users. The design also introduces public communal spaces and green pockets, for the comfort of the users.

Technical information

The design is not merely functional but also the sustainable. The building can be built by using recycled steel sections and recycled boat wood, by using simple construction techniques. Natural ventilation and passive cooling methods are thought aspects. The design is very simple and flexible. The building is designed with consideration to views and sights of the city, to create a holistic experience of the city. This also creates an inter- relationship between the city and the users. By creating a very lightweight structure, this could be an answer to the design problem, and a futuristic idea for cities that are facing similar problem.