Jacob Hedge

Master of Architecture (ARB/RIBA Part 2)

Theme

COASTAL CONFLICT

A Parallel Institution Resolving Conflict Through Common Law

My thesis began with an interrogation of the coast of Britain. Examining the many facets of its history, peoples and culture. I discovered the great depth of military history and activity that occurred over the previous centuries across the Isle. These layers of history seemed forgotten and eclipsed by larger world events.

Through a history of conflict the question of the present arises and how this wealth of knowledge can be used to impact our current time. The conduit of conflict resolution allows for an archive to be built, this archive can be used to store those documents that hold value to a nation, and represent a piece of history that will not be so easily forgotten. Conflict resolution can tie the past and present together, finding common ground between hostile parties and helping nations to prosper in peace.

The accumulation of centuries of royal decrees, judge rulings and customs has built up a vast wealth and layering of governing precedent creating English and common law. This is the same case for Scotland although containing some slight variations – this wealth of precedential rulings can help aid the resolution of international conflicts from a new perspective.

Whilst this key aim can be facilitated through a primary architecture, other, smaller histories spring forward when engaging with the past. Parallel programs of forgotten crafts that can be rediscovered and revitalised, and aid in the relearning of the past and a reshaping of the future. The Island of Cramond is a perfect location for something as large as an institution, especially one that holds a key principle to impartiality, adjoined to the mainland through the temporal causeway similar to how a history of conflict can be forgotten and reconnected to.

Website: http://jsharch.uk

Scroll for more icon-down-arrow

Jacob Hedge | Architecture 5
The building is formed from three parts. The courtyard, which supplies the materials such as canvas and ink and rooms for scribes copying documents. The large isle and adjacent halls that host the library and archive and access to the crypt holding documents. Finally, where processions, rights and rituals are concluded the rotunda and the steps into the judges’ amphitheatre where cases for conflict resolution are heard and debated and decreed upon.
Jacob Hedge | Architecture 4
Site plan of Cramond island and the parallel institution. Connected to the mainland by the tidal causeway.
Jacob Hedge | Architecture 3
1:200 Sectional Model. 1.2m x 0.6m. 3d print, Plywood, copper.
Jacob Hedge | Architecture 2
Through a process of collage, reference and layering, elevations of the institution have been created. The process mirrors that of the layers of conflict and history accumulating and building up over time. The architecture of this parallel institution reflects that of the English and Scotts common law being practiced there, one of strength, utility and beauty.
Jacob Hedge | Architecture 1
Wormseye Axo
Jacob Hedge | Architecture
The tides have given way to the land and the causeway resurfaces, a procession heads towards the island, celebrating another conflict has been resolved and anxious to give thanks to the members of the institution.
Icon long arrow up Architecture
Icon long arrow left Ethan Burley | Architecture Aishwarya Warrier | ArchitectureIcon long arrow right