Gazebo for Diyatha Uyana, Sri Lanka

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

Project idea

An Architectural implementation for an open structure with shade to relax and watch the surroundings with temporal utilitarian functions provided according to site and user requirements. Designing a simple structure that composes with the setting by analyzing the availing problems, generating possible solutions and developing a communicative interaction between space and user through design solutions. 'A good fit for a GAZEBO'.

Location

The Gazebo will be located at a tourist attraction park in Colombo, Sri Lanka which is known as 'Diyatha Uyana'. The significance of this context is that people from all around the island visit here to enjoy recreation.
The site is located at corner interaction point of the park where it sits between the jogging track and lake at a sharp bend. Specific lake viewpoints to be seen from the site and is generally a crowded location.

User

Many visitors including tourists visit the park. Families, students, Employees, couples, individuals, joggers and fitness enthusiasts are some of the key visitors of the context. When narrowing down to the site, the gazebo will cater fitness enthusiasts and workaholics as the main two user categories. So that the structure can be occupied at any hour of the day.

Project description

Design Approach

Nature is the living proof which keeps us inspired with naturally occurring relationships. There are many natural scenarios which symbolizes unity among mother nature. As a simple example, if we pay detailed attention on how a creeper plant twists itself on an existing element, the essence of being able to adjust and fit with the space is what inspired me to design a context-oriented gazebo. Applying this essence to my design using the same material to wind through the space to get maximum views and to create entry points is the initial approach to the design.

Technical information

The gazebo caters mainly two user categories namely the fitness enthusiasts (joggers and exercise group for resting and stretching purpose) and workaholics (students and employees for study and work purpose).

Collapsible Furniture

Therefore, I have incorporated convertible furniture which acts multi-functional according to user purposes. Design consists of window-bench like furniture which can be opened and closed for seating purpose and other fitness activities. These seating structures are designed to be collapsed to provide maximum space when required. Example: At rainy times these seating can be folded back again providing more space to occupy maximum number of users inside for rain cover.

Passive energy

Gazebo consists of solar panels which will generate power and electricity for user to plug in their electronic devices like laptops for study and work purposes. Electricity will be also utilized to automate the rain cover system at rainy times.

Materials

Gazebo is built using timber panels (lightweight), C channels (for reinforcement and strength) and a bottom slab consisting exposed concrete (to protect the structure from dampness).

Pergola design on roof

Roof timber panels consist of pergola openings which will allow the form to play with light and shadows. This will add aesthetic value to the gazebo as well as provides necessary light for user to conduct activities effectively.