Knowledge and Experience Sharing Center - aiming to explore a depository of historical and scientific artifacts of artistic valu

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

Project idea

Design Interpretation
We are intending to cover the master design brief within the length of the three phases proposed on the project. We are subdividing the three spaces and would be working on it in a detailed form beforehand so that maximum focus can be given to the spaces. Main priority of the project will be given for the functions. Based on the hierarchy minor function in that case will serve in such a way to make main functions become a reality.
In the design we are intending to make the maximum use of the existing spaces. The spaces will be enhanced by exposing and integrating them with elements and inspirations drawn right from the ceramic industry.
Features of the existing walls will be used to highlight the surfaces and finishes found within the ceramic industry. This is done with an intention to showcase the breadth of design possibilities that can be achieved through this material and to give the visitor an immersive experience into to the world of ceramics.
Uses of ceramics and use of ceramic samples which are at an experimental or a prototype stage would also be used throughout the proposed procedure to give the visitor snapshot on the design and development processes and also as to what should be expected from the industry. The center would allow the visitor to carry these experiences out to the masses.
It has become a global trend for factories to not just function as production facilities but also as spaces which enable the customers to experience about the product at a broader sense.
In the project, the visitors will gain opportunities to see, observe and experience the world of ceramic. From the top management procedure so the quality testing stage, every industrial procedure will takes place in such a way for the visitors to experience the insides of the industry. The transparency is something that we intends to maintain throughout the project.
The interior arrangement and the surrounding qualities, techniques and finishes used in the project will support to enhance the requirements of the spaces.
Therefore, the visitors will be naturally guided and moved around the spaces from the design itself.
The project intends to give the visitors a maximum knowledge and experience on the ceramic industry by also creating spatial environments for interaction with sense on movement, safety, and excitement. This will be mainly done by bridging the visitor experience with the ceramic industry through multitude of senses, such as by showcasing the transformation of materials to a product, sense materials used in the design and its finishes, sense of direction and interaction, etc.

Project description

The project is to re-purpose the site at kirimetithenne to a Knowledge and Experience Center. The site is currently underused and making the facility the center of the operation would render this asset into a self-sustained and revenue generating entity while acting as a valuable research resource.

Phase 1: Cleaning out of the existing factory building and unused equipment while renovating building utilities for future development. Some parts of the existing factory would be preserved to be re-purposed as parts of knowledge and skills sharing Center.

Phase 2: Installing and commissioning three main production lines and two secondary production line around which the knowledge and experience sharing center would be build.

Phase 3: Other supplementary facilities would be developed to the level of the newly build knowledge and experience sharing center. Once this phase is completed the center would be a self-sustaining unit which would this report would focus on the second stage of the development which includes the main factory building, product development and multi-functional indoor space.

Technical information

The project is to repurpose the site at kirimetithenne to a Knowledge and
Experience Center. The site is currently underused and making the facility
the center of the operation would render this asset into a self sustained and
revenue generating entity while acting as a valuable research resource.

Co-authors

Technical Feasibility
Space is available within the factory therefore the proposed designs would be implemented in the space using standard manufacturing methods. Only tried and tested technologies would be used in the product. Lighting and ventilation is planned without obstructing the factory as well as the knowledge sharing spaces that runs along with them.

Economic Feasibility
Investment is significantly less related to what has been already invested and the final value after the investment Long term snowballing effect would result in exponential revenue growth with the skill and knowledge bleeding out to the market benefiting the industry as a whole. Knowledge sharing would improve the industry giving better benefits.