Project Synopsis
This project located in the centre of Kilkenny is based on the concept of reintroducing light industry back into the city. The basis of creating a recycle centre in the city is for its by-product of fabric. The plastic bottles that are processed are put through a process that results in creating fabric. The brief also incorporates space for fashion designers to use this fabric to make and exhibit their work.
The site is located on the existing Smithwicks brewery, the recycle centre utilizing an existing building on the site. The storage of the plastic is housed in various silos with the exhibition spaces above.
The whole process, from collection of the plastic bottles to the finished pieces of designed clothing, is on display for visitors to experience from the raised walkways around the complex.
The main building material used was P.E.T, this is the plastic that is recycled in the centre.
The site is located on the existing Smithwicks brewery, the recycle centre utilizing an existing building on the site. The storage of the plastic is housed in various silos with the exhibition spaces above.
The whole process, from collection of the plastic bottles to the finished pieces of designed clothing, is on display for visitors to experience from the raised walkways around the complex.
The main building material used was P.E.T, this is the plastic that is recycled in the centre.
Process Diagram - Converting plastic bottles into fabric.
Design Stages
Cross Section
Cross Section
Section of Main St. to the river
Gatje Style Context Plan
Ground floor plan of Recycle Centre
Plan of exhibition/storage silos
Plan of recycle centre and silos, connected with a belvedere.
“Here's where redesign begins in earnest, where we stop trying to be less bad and we start figuring out how to be good.”
William McDonough, 'Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things'
The book Cradle to Cradle was a strong influence in my design process and in the methodology of the project.
