Student Magazine new draft jw2

Retreat Pod
Discover how a student from the
University of Salford designed a new
working space for a musician
Sajni Devraj Sanghani a
student at University of
Salford, designed this small
retreat pod specifically for
Andrew, a musician, who
is a concert director and
works at the Djangoli Music
Centre based at University
of Salford. It is situated in
Heaton Park, Manchester,
close to a pond. This was
purposely chosen to meet
his brief of a peaceful place,
away from the hassle of
the city and near an area
which allows him to catch a
glimpse of various species of
birds.
Initial design processes began
with a clear analysis of the site.
At first the pod design was a long
rectangular, set on the ground,
with well-lit windows to maximise
the connection from the outside
environment. Later, the idea of a pod
resting underneath columns was
inspired by the silhouette of a bird
resting alongside water. The roof
design was shaped like the head of
a bird.
The concept follows that of tree
houses whereby to gain the best
bird watching views, it is designed
above the ground level.
The two balconies, on different
levels, on the opposite facades of
the building allows the client to bird
watch from his own comfort zone.
Birds such as swans and ducks can
also be seen swimming in the pond,
and this adds to the hypnotising
view of the connection of water
and nature. Easy access from the
main staircase to the lush green
trees surrounding the pod also offer
a place to go to the outside for his
further bird watching.
aspirATion Autumn/Winter 2016
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