Giving a physical space for a community worry in Stroud.

This project was about using architecture for creating a transparent and welcoming discussion space that emphasises Stroud's social activism , where the community has to be heard and taken into account.

I was interested on creating an Ecocide Courtroom without precedent, that will make more visible the rebellious spirit of this town, catching international interest and making a powerful statement against climate change. Stroud locals are very involved in social activism, therefore it was imperative for me to materialise this special character. Also, ecocide has to be considered an international crime that needs to be taken into consideration and it has to be punished. In 50 years time, this project is meant to finish ecocide.

In my personal research, I studied different courthouses from a classical (Old Bailey) towards more contemporary (Antwerp Courthouse) and ending with an informal one (Gacaca Court). I looked at Louis Kahn floor plans of the Dominican Motherhouse that takes the reader through his methodical and thoughtful process of designing a simple squared shaped structure. I looked at the Louisiana Museum. . The thoughtful use of corridors that will invite the viewer to observe bottom-up images of the different landscapes that surround the museum spaces. The architect will describe how each corridor guides the visitor with a specific purpose.

The Ecocide Courthouse is mixed with three different ecosystems: a wetland, flowerbeds and some greenery. There are two small hearing rooms and a main one that will be placed in the middle of the site, to show its importance. It will be connected through corridors that will serve s mediators in between trials as well as connecting or dividing people from one place to another. There will be a clear 'security line'.
The project was meant to use mainly natural materials such as different types of timber that will accentuate the sustainable aspect of it. This project is respecting the ecology and the hydrology of the site by the use of screw piles so buildings aren't directly touching the ground and giving

In conclusion, this project tried to be sensible towards the site surroundings and the community needs and wants whilst still trying to bring a bold and strong statement against climate change with clean and simple shaped buildings with an innovative way of circulation and setup.