FABRIC GEOMETRY: BATTERSEA POWER STATION (MARCH PROJECT)

This project proposes to re-use the abandoned Battersea Power Station as a Centre for 7
Performing Arts. The philosophy behind the design proposal derived from a dissertation
study Irrational Feats of Structure and Geometry that looked at the use of geometry and
mathematics in the work of three architects Philibert de lOrme, Antoni Gaudi and Preston
Scott Cohen. Moving between different architectural eras of French Renaissance, Catalan
Modernism and Deconstructivism, revealed geometry as an art form that can produce vastly
different results and aesthetics when approached through different media.
Deriving from this theory, geometry was approached through two different media, !rstly
through hand drawings and secondly through plaster casting in order to combine an abstract mathematical approach with another that worked with the physical nature of the material. De lOrme always maintained that two simple perpendicular lines is always the starting point for any organic geometric form. In this sense, the existing gridded steel structure
of the ruinous Battersea Power Station forms the impetus to convert a rigid, repetitive and
rectilinear into an expressive and organic theatre space.

The images on this page show a series of abstract geometric drawings based on inversion of
a square around a circle. The drawing is then developed into a model by cutting, folding and
pulling areas out of the plane and then connecting with string to form a tensile structure.

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1,2,3 Images of Battersea Power Station
4. Philibert de lOrmes drawing for a trompe- Precedent
5. Rectilinear spiriculate by Preston Scott Cohen- Precedent
6. Top view of model
7. Geometric Inversion- Overlay of hand drawing
8,9 Elevation view of Model

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Shravan Vaidyanath - Work Samples

Line of columns
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The second method approaches geometry through plaster casting. It derives from Gaudis hanging chain models which sought
to generate form that is simultaneously organic and structural.
In this instance a sheet of fabric is allowed to hang between set
points determined by the layout of the existing foundations of
the power station. Plaster is then poured onto the fabric and form
is found from the way the plaster sets under the in"uence of gravity. The resulting structure is then inverted to form a compressive
shell structure. Care is taken to ensure the imperfections of the
casting are retained to give a unique feel to each element.

1. Image of the fabric mould

2. Image of the fabric mould with a plaster cast in it
3,4. Images showing development of the model
5. Concept model showing development of the roof structure
6-9. Examples of the research by Centre for Architectural Structures & Technology at the University of Manitoba showing the
real life process of concrete formed by fabric formwork.
Shravan Vaidyanath - Work Samples

Photos of the model depicting the proposed structure and spaces in relation to the
existing structural grid. The theatre spaces are imagined as completely enclosed
space. The in-between areas between the theatres form an exhibition space for
mathematical art and are more open to the weather with a porous roof.

1. View of the southern end; 2. View of the north elevation with the iconic chimneys
in the background; 3,4.Close up the materiality of and the open space between
the theatres; 5. View from above looking north.
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Shravan Vaidyanath - Work Samples

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1. Photomontage of the main concert hall; 2. Detail of the staircase which hangs from the shell structure; 3. View of the cafe with the theatre space above
4. Longitudinal section; 5. Elevation looking through the existing structure; 6. Plan of the theatre level

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Shravan Vaidyanath - Work Samples

CONCORDIA AND CONSORTIA HOUSE, MERTON (YEAR-OUT PROJECT)

Located on Merton High Street and next to the Merton Conservation Area,
this scheme provides a mix of 8 "ats of supported housing for people with
learning dif!culties and remaining 11 "ats for market housing. Working on this
project from start to !nish proved to be an invaluable experience going from
design to structure to detailing and construction.
As a scheme that was part funded by the Merton Borough Council, I had the
opportunity to work closely with the planning department towards delivering
a high quality scheme. It was technically challenging project designed to Level
4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes and meets the criteria set out in the London Housing Design Guide. The supported housing section of the building is
designed to be wheel chair friendly. A number of renewable energy features
such green roofed terraces for rainwater harvesting and photovoltaic array
were incorporated.
Being part of a small of!ce, I was entrusted with the responsibility of producing the entire working drawing package using BIM. I produced the drawings
through constant input and co-ordination with the timber frame consultants
and the contractor. I am particularly proud of the large double glazed bay
windows, a striking feature of this scheme that provides plenty of light and
ample views out of the spaces. The cladding is bespoke and is made from
charred timber.
The scheme has made a positive impact on the neighbourhood with many
members of the public coming up to us and appreciating our efforts when we
were taking photos of the !nished scheme.

1. Section; 2. View from the rear garden; 3. View of the front entrancefrom
Merton high Street; 4. Detail plan and sections of the bay window
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Shravan Vaidyanath - Work Samples