GLASS TOWER DESIGN
NAR OUSE REGENERATION AREA (NORA)
In 2000, I conceptualised landmark features inspired by Diatoms for the Nar Ouse Regeneration Area (NORA), Kings Lynn, Norfolk. These features would include a 35-meter spire and a shelter/kiosk constructed from recycled glass, depicting intricate microorganisms and diatom forms. The design aimed to integrate with the surrounding river landscape, resembling an 'eco-cathedral'. The base of the structure would offer shelter and accessibility through steps and a ramp leading to a viewing platform, fostering a connection between the community, nature, and the waterways.
project description
client
Kings Lynn & West Norfolk Borough Council
Morston Assets Ltd
date
2000 -03
design team
Sheils Flynn
LSI Architects (Architecture)
WSP (Engineering)
Irene Rogan (Artist)
Penny Anderson Associates (Ecology)
WT Partnership (QS)
links
As Master Planning artist my role included developing concepts for integrated artworks and an art strategy for the whole site. I developed concepts for a landmark sculpture. Located on the urban landscape & riverside regeneration in King’s Lynn along the Nar (SSSI) and Ouse Rivers ; this is a commercial development on a brown field site consisting of high density residential and community facilities.
Some of the key influences for the strategy were also inspired by rescue and revival:
Beautiful Bulrushes, Remarkable Reeds: The Water Reclamation Miracles of Kaethe Seidel in parallel with research into diatoms and microrganisms valuable as a tool for monitoring environmental conditions and commonly used in studies of water quality.
Bringing a brownfield site back to life for the King's Lynn communityas a location for enjoyment and essential services.The landmark diatom-inspired proposals are designed to highlight the beauty and value of natural resources of our rivers and water the and bringing the community together.
I worked in collaboration with Sheils Flynn - Landscape Architects and Urban Designers and Penny Anderson Associates, Consultant Ecologists, this scheme was Part of Millennium Communities Programme. Partners include English Partnerships, EEDA, Norfolk County Council, King’s Lynn & West Norfolk Borough Council, Morston’s Assets.
