Social + Landmark

The project takes on a landmark approach to create a new social and economic hub within Cymmer. I aim to spark community regeneration and economic development in Cymmer through the introduction of the hub.

The primer project had us discover a childhood memory. The memory in itself is a landmark in my childhood. In addition to this, the reason why the memory was so vivid is because of its landmark status in the area. This led to research that provided an understanding of what constitutes a landmark. Architecturally, designing a proposed landmark has the potential to shed a light on an area which aligns with the unit's overall theme of a new approach to rural life.

The revival of the old train line through the valleys is the major move in the proposal as the train line historically brought a change in Cymmer when they were introduced as a means to transport coal out of the mines.
The final proposal is a Train station complex in the heart of Cymmer. The complex is comprised of two buildings, a partially sheltered concourse, renovated playground and a cycling shelter. One building houses the train station on the ground floor and communal workspaces on the top floor. The second building has communal workshop spaces on both floors. The work element in the proposal is residency based aimed at supporting local entrepreneurs in Cymmer. The concourse is a public space that can be used by commuters using the train service, locals as a space for community events and a space for the workshop businesses to sell their products. The playground and the cycling shelter are overlooked social landmarks that complement the overall project.

Creating this transport and business hub in Cymmer will spark and support the development that is very much needed in the area. The hub has room for expansion should it be successful. I believe this approach can be implemented in other valley towns which are in the same deprived state as Cymmer.