Ruby Caruana

The 1:250 Master Plan features pathways indicated by dashed lines above and below ground. Emphasising light, the ambient passageways offer varied experiences. The entrance at Tram Stop D5 leads into a dim underground tunnel, with a bright light at the end guiding visitors to the courtyard. From the eastern side, another tunnel with a glass-blocks ceiling, allows natural light to filter through. This connection is clear in View 1, where the ground floor and circulatory path on level one overlook the basement exhibition space which has a glass roof. Moreover, art programs including painting, ceramics, and printmaking studios, as well as an events room, bring visitors and seafarers together.

The 1:1000 Basement and Level-One Plans, along with the Exploded Axonometric Diagram, provide a comprehensive view of the building's spatial arrangement. The basement illustrates how the passageways connect, enhancing movement and accessibility. It also reveals the piers of the Yarra River, showcasing their significance. Level-one features a planetarium where maritime themes will be projected, and the glass roof structures of the studios are depicted. The exploded axonometric diagram illustrates the transformation of the original Mission to Seafarers building into the newly intervened space, showcasing its various design elements.

The 1:250 Perspective Sections AA and BB provide insightful views into the intervened Mission to Seafarers building. Section AA showcases the large staircase leading up from the boardwalk to level one, directing pedestrians into the building and enhancing accessibility. This connection is pivotal, linking the tram stop entrance to the Yarra River and integrating the building within its site context. Section BB clearly illustrates the chapel, reflective garden, and adjacent spaces, highlighting how these features interact with the surrounding buildings. The play with levels becomes more apparent, emphasising transparency with large windows that allow natural light to flood the interiors.

1:25 Section 01 highlights the northern facade, showcasing its intricate brick texture and the passageway above that rests on the wall, forging a seamless connection with existing elements. The elevated road is shown, providing clear context for the building's entry points. Section 02 reveals the underground amphitheatre, designed for performances with purposeful seating. This intimate space allows for views into the area above and vice versa, through the glass dome roof, fostering interaction between levels. Additionally, the design hints at an underground tunnel, sparking curiosity.

Modelled in Rhino, rendered in Enscape, and edited in Photoshop, the Tram Stop D5, Eastern Entrance & Interior Circulative Exhibition Renders capture the inviting and functional design of the Mission to Seafarers building. The tram stop serves as the main entrance for pedestrians, leading into an underground tunnel that culminates in the building's courtyard. The eastern entrance render features visitors enjoying picnics and spending time with family and friends, framed by views of the entrances, main stairs, and ramp up to level one. Additionally, the interior render depicts light filtering through the northern façade, creating an inviting atmosphere where art is appreciated by the public.

The 1:25 Sectional Physical Model of the Mission to Seafarers building highlights attention to detail. After laser-cutting and labelling each piece for easy assembly, elements were spray-painted grey to mimic concrete. A textured wood sticker was then added to the concrete steps for a realistic finish. Printed brick overlays on the plywood enhanced materiality, while flower foam formed the tunnel, mimicking metal with blue paper. Real soil enriches the underground amphitheatre, and a curved acrylic balustrade was created to resemble glass blocks. Textured silicone vegetation added realistic trees, and balsa wood picture frames display art, enhancing the creative theme.