"Fort Widley" of Innovative Restoration Project

  "Fort Widley": Renovate for accommodation and a reception wedding venue.

The United Kingdom's "POTENTIALLY THE MOST IMPRESSIVE PIECE OF NINETY-CENTURY DEFENSIVE ARCHITECTURE"

The Fort Widley Project

Fort Widley is being transformed into a unique wedding venue, reception space, and lodging facility as part of a transformative adaptive reuse project to combine the appeal of a historic landmark with modern amenities and minimise environmental impact.

Fort Widley is being transformed into a unique wedding venue, reception space, and lodging facility as part of a transformative adaptive reuse project to combine the appeal of a historic landmark with modern amenities and minimise environmental impact.

Fig : Location Map Fort widley

Fort Widley is a former military bastion that is being transformed into a distinctive wedding location, reception area, and lodging facility with an emphasis on sustainability and maintaining its historical charm. This proposal seeks to minimise environmental effect while merging the charm of a historic monument with contemporary conveniences, creating an unforgettable and environmentally friendly location for couples looking for a unique wedding experience.

27th February 2023 - SITE VISIT and Project History

Fort Widley is one of five Victorian forts that overlook Portsmouth Harbour. It was built in the 1860s and was used for military purposes for more than a century before being taken over by the council. Today, it serves as an equestrian facility and the Pompey Pals military museum.

The main entrance of the Port is surrounded by casemates.

On Portsdown Hill in Portsmouth, United Kingdom is an ancient stronghold called Fort Widley. The fort was erected in the 1860s as a part of a system of defensive fortifications to defend the city and its naval base from invasion. Fort Widley, which had a moat, drawbridge, and underground tunnels connecting different areas of the fort, was thought to be state-of-the-art when it was being built. The fort was built to withstand a protracted siege and was outfitted with powerful guns and cannons.

                                                                Fort Widley Building View

Fort Widley served as a military training facility in World War I and as a station for anti-aircraft weaponry in World War II. The fort was abandoned after the war and deteriorated. The fort served as a temporary residence for East African migrants in the 1960s, and also housed explosives storage facilities in the 1970s. The fort was named a Scheduled Ancient Monument in the 1980s, and work was done to protect and restore the location. 

Fort Widley is now a museum and tourist destination where the history and architecture of the fort are on display. Many events, including weddings, concerts, and theatrical productions, are held at the fort.

The architectural style of Fort Widley buildings

Fort Widley's architectural design is a classic illustration of a Palmerston fort. It is a polygonal fort with a central parade ground that is fortified by numerous bastions and defensive walls. A wide ditch surrounds the fort, which is made of stone and brick. A gatehouse that is guarded by a number of defensive buildings serves as the entryway to the fort.

                                                     Tunnel entryway the fort Widley

The fort's architecture reflects the time's military thought, which placed a premium on a fortress's ability to endure continuous bombardment. 

                                                A structure with natural lighting

As a result, the fort was constructed with high ditches and sturdy walls to give defense against enemy fire. In order to protect the garrison in the case of an attack, the fort also has a number of underground passages and chambers.
In general, Fort Widley is a superb illustration of the Palmerston fortifications that were constructed all around the nation in the 19th century. It serves as a museum and historical site and is a significant piece of the nation's military heritage.
                                                Building shape from above

Site observed around the fort widely:

On Portsdown Hill in Portsmouth, England, the site of Fort Widley is situated in a forested environment. Many elements and constructions typical of Palmerston forts and other military fortifications can be seen by site visitors. 

Aerial Perspective Fort Widley

Around the Fort Widley site, some things that can be seen include:

  • Bastions and defensive walls around the fort are intended to deter enemy fire.
  • The garrison conducted drills and training on the central parade ground.
  • The fort's entrance was secured by the gatehouse and other fortifications.
  • The chambers and tunnels below ground were built to protect the garrison in case of invasion.
  • To give the fort's guardians a clear line of sight, the surrounding woodland region was cleared of trees.
  • Portsmouth and the surrounding area are visible from all angles because of the surrounding terrain.
  • Informational displays and panels that explain the history and importance of the fort.
  • Visitors to the Fort Widley site can learn more about the military history of the country and the function that forts like this one performed in protecting the country from potential invasion.

The Interior Space of style in Fort Widley:

The interior layout of a building is an essential component of its design and has a big impact on how people use it. Depending on the building's architectural style and the intended use of the space, interior design can vary substantially.

Fort Widley Tunnel Interior Space 

Hampshire, England is home to the former military fortress known as Fort Widley. The utilitarian design of the fort, which was constructed in the late 19th century with an emphasis on usefulness and practicality, was used in its construction. The interior parts of Fort Widley were intended to serve specific purposes as a military stronghold, including barracks, storage spaces, and command centers. The military strategies and equipment available during the period, as well as the requirements of the soldiers and commanders manning the fort, would have had an impact on the design of these areas. Interior design trends have generally changed over time as a result of different cultural, societal, and technological influences.

The following are some of the most well-liked interior design trends over time:

  • Classical: Symmetry, proportion, and order are stressed in this style. The architecture of ancient Greece or Rome may have served as an inspiration for the ornamental decorations that are frequently found in classical interiors, such as columns, arches, and moldings.

                                                                    Symmetry Arches
    • Gothic: Drama and opulence are emphasized in this style. Soaring ceilings pointed arches, and elaborate stone carvings are common features of gothic interiors. During the Middle Ages, Gothic architecture was widely utilized in the design of churches and cathedrals throughout Europe.
    • Renaissance: Harmony and balance are emphasized in this style. The art and architecture of the Italian Renaissance may have served as an inspiration for the extravagant features that are frequently found in Renaissance interiors, such as tapestries and frescoes.
    • Baroque: Its fashion is distinguished by an emphasis on extravagance and grandeur. Baroque interiors frequently have rich decorations, such as gilded ceilings, and lavish chandeliers, and they may have been influenced by European art and architecture from the 17th century.

                                                    Modern Building Perspective _ Fort Widley
      • Modern: Its style is distinguished by an emphasis on functionality and minimalism. Clean lines, neutral hues, and little to no adornment are common characteristics of modern interiors. The early 20th century saw the emergence of the modern style, which was influenced by the development of new materials and technology as well as industrialization.
      • It's vital to remember that these styles can be blended or altered in a variety of ways to produce original interior designs. In addition, modern interior design trends are constantly changing and frequently impacted by emerging technologies and societal trends.

       Used of Materials in Fort Widley:

      Fort Widley was constructed with a mix of strong and damage-resistant materials since it was intended to withstand artillery and aerial assaults. Fort Widley was built with the following materials:

                                                      Brick Materials Interior Spaces

      Brick: Brick, a sturdy and fire-resistant building material, was used to build the fort's external walls. Fort Widley's bricks were probably either manufactured on-site or purchased from nearby brickwork.

      Concrete: Reinforced concrete, a relatively new building material at the time of construction, is also used extensively in the fort. Concrete, which was prized for its strength and durability, was utilized to build the fort's roof, flooring, and inner walls.

                                                  Exposed Steel Materials I Section Beam

      Steel: A lot of steel was used to build Fort Widley, especially in the form of steel reinforcing bars (rebar) that were incorporated into the concrete. The fort's gun emplacements and other military elements were built out of steel as well.

                                                         Natural Stone Materials Tunnel

      Stone: The gatehouse and other ornamental elements at Fort Widley were particularly covered with stone. Fort Widley's building employed stone that most likely came from nearby quarries. Mainly Tunnel focuses the Natural stone materials.

                                       Wood Materials Cilling, beam

      Wood: Wood was mostly used for interior components like door and window frames. Yet given time and use, it's likely that a large portion of the wood used to build Fort Widley has been replaced.

      Fort Widley also has a variety of secondary materials, including plaster, glass, and ironwork, in addition to these fundamental architectural components. Several of these materials were employed to provide ornamental details or to offer practical support for the main building elements.


      Lighting System in Fort Widley:

      Lighting would have served a variety of purposes at Fort Widley. The lighting system essentially uses two types of light: artificial light and natural light.

                                                                  Interior Space Light

      The fort's tunnels have undergone improvements to make them more usable for the general public and to better their condition. In order to improve visitor satisfaction and highlight historical elements, a new interior lighting system was built. It has energy-saving LED lights that produce a warm, natural light that improves the mood.

                                           Interior space Light            Welcome Natural Light


      About the Functional facilities:

      Staircases:

      Many staircases that go to various levels of the stronghold are present inside Fort Widley. Regular maintenance of these staircases is necessary to guarantee the comfort and safety of guests. This includes maintaining them clear of trash, making sure the steps are non-slip and offering enough lighting. To help visitors, especially those with mobility challenges, feel supported and stable, handrails should be put on both sides of the staircase.

                                                              Staircase Photograph

                                                              Staircase Photograph

      Toilets:

      In the internal area of Fort Widley, restrooms are another crucial function that needs to be kept in good condition. Toilet paper, soap, and paper towels should be replenished on a regular basis to guarantee that visitors have access to clean, sanitary restrooms. Toilets should have enough ventilation, hand dryers, and paper towels to prevent unwanted odors and provide a welcoming environment for guests.

      Circulation areas:

      The places that allow guests to travel between rooms and corridors are referred to as circulation zones inside Fort Widley. To ensure that visitors can easily navigate these spaces, it is crucial to keep them well-lit, tidy, and equipped with clear signs. Moreover, circulation spaces should be created with people with mobility concerns in mind, and ramps or lifts should be constructed when required.

                                                              Circulation outline_Fort Widley


                                                   Circulation Photo_Fort Widley

      Fort Widley Sustainable interior design repurposing:

      Fort Widley's interior repurposing using sustainable design principles can offer chances to maintain the fortification's historical significance while also making it a more sustainable and ecologically friendly setting. These are some design ideas to take into account while renovating the inside of Fort Widley in a sustainable manner:

      Adaptive reuse: Repurposing existing buildings or structures for new uses rather than eliminating them is referred to as adaptive reuse in sustainable design. The internal arrangement of Fort Widley can be modified to accommodate new purposes while maintaining its historical significance.

      Energy efficiency: The inside of Fort Widley can be planned to use the least amount of energy possible. This might involve the utilisation of natural lighting and ventilation as well as the installation of energy-efficient heating, cooling, and lighting equipment.

      Water conservation: The interior layout of Fort Widley can potentially use water conservation techniques. This can involve installing water-efficient landscaping, using low-flow toilets and faucets, and harvesting rainwater.

      Sustainable materials: For the interior finishes of the space that Fort Widley is repurposing, sustainable materials can be used, including recycled or recovered wood, natural stone, and low-VOC paints.

      Universal design: The internal area at Fort Widley can be reconfigured such that everyone who visits, regardless of their abilities, will be able to use it. The construction of ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms might all fall under this category.

      Green space: The air quality can be improved and a more welcoming environment can be created for tourists by including green spaces into the interior design of Fort Widley. Outside gardens, living walls, and green roofs can all be added to the fortress to improve its sustainability.

      In conclusion, Fort Widley's interior space may be reused sustainably to maintain its historical significance while also creating a more pleasant experience for tourists. The repurposed facility can be made more appealing, usable, and entertaining for visitors by including sustainable design principles like adaptive reuse, energy efficiency, water conservation, sustainable materials, universal design, and green space.


      Accommodation Services:

      Visitors to Fort Widley may need access to restrooms or other amenities to feel comfortable and enjoy their stay. Visitors could have trouble finding proper facilities if there aren't enough restrooms, which could ruin their experience. Also, the lack of lodging options can restrict how long visitors can spend visiting the fortification, which might have an effect on the whole experience.

                                                                 Existing Accommodation Space

      Thus, it is crucial to have sufficient lodging and lavatory facilities inside Fort Widley. This can be accomplished by putting into practice suitable management and maintenance procedures, such as routine inspections, cleaning, and repairs. Installing additional facilities, such as temporary housing or portable restrooms, where they are required can also greatly enhance the overall visitor experience.


      Venue for a Fort Widley wedding reception:

      Couples looking for a distinctive and historic backdrop for their wedding reception may find Fort Widley to be the perfect location. The interior of the fortification offers a lovely and rustic ambiance that can be improved by suitable lighting and ornamentation. Consider the following while choosing Fort Widley as the location for your wedding reception:

      Capacity: Before selecting Fort Widley as the location for your wedding reception, it's crucial to take the space's capacity into account. The area must be adequate to comfortably hold the number of guests attending the event.

      Catering: A wedding reception location should be able to offer suitable culinary services. Further culinary facilities, like refrigeration and cooking equipment, might be needed for the Fort Widley interior space.

      Decorations: The inside of Fort Widley can be made more charming and beautiful with the right décor. The design should be chosen to enhance the historic location and draw attention to its distinctive features.

      Lighting: The inside of Fort Widley can be made to feel cosy and romantic with the use of the right lighting. To create a pleasant and private atmosphere, utilize candlelight or soft lighting.

      Accessibility: All visitors, including those with impairments or mobility challenges, must be able to enter the Fort Widley interior space. To guarantee that everyone can access the venue, appropriate accommodations like ramps or lifts should be constructed.

      Parking: There should be enough parking spaces for people attending the wedding reception. The parking lot ought to be accessible and convenient to the Fort Widley interior space.

      Overall, Fort Widley might be a special and endearing location for a wedding celebration that offers a historic atmosphere and a special experience for couples and their guests. Prior to choosing a location for the wedding reception, it is crucial to take into account the venue's capacity, catering options, décor, lighting, accessibility, and parking.


      20TH MARCH CONTRACT SUBMISSION

      The physical analysis of the Fort Widley site visit was the major goal of my expedition. This excursion to Fort Widley was necessary in order to undertake a physical site visit, identity the difficulties, and opportunities, and get a deeper understanding of nature and its characteristics. An essential interior architectural conservation project in Fort Widley can involve repairing a restoring the inside areas to enhance the tourist experience.

       My investigation’s findings were as follows:

      A fascinating and engaging visitor experience is greatly influenced by the interior design of Fort Widley, a significant historical site. The “Wedding Hall Reception Venue” and “Accommodation” sections are, in my opinion, “completely occupied” and unable to host any events at this time. An inquiry into the internal architecture of Fort Widley involved a full analysis of its interior spaces, including its lodging and Wedding Hall venue. The assessment might determine the fort’s interior’s current condition and identify any areas that need modernization or renovation. The Fort Widley wall and ceiling are composed of a mix of brick and stone, and they are many feet thick. The tunnels and chambers of the fort are supported by arches and other structural elements, spreading the fort’s weight and maintaining its stability.

       The renovation and revitalization of the internal spaces of the fort to enhance the visitor experience is a major topic for interior architectural research. Fort Widley will continue to be a popular tourist attraction and an important historical place for years to come, in my opinion. Several of the few marks, such as the degraded quality of the structural elements, the wall coated in algae and mildew, the gaps around the windows and doors, the failing flooring, and the wet subfloor. The inner space circulation is primarily straight, and three tunnels join the main circular point. Another thing is that the internal area that really drew me in was the circular staircase; it is an incredibly unforgettable one.

      Fort Widley on Portsdown Hill, a grade two star listed building and scheduled monument, is included in the historic England heritage registry. Cooperation between the Portsmouth city council [PCC] and Peter Ashley activity centers [PAACT] is being discussed in order to submit an application for grants for preservation and upkeep. Peter Ashley Activity Centres will take up the PCC’s function in locating funding sources [PAACT]. This gives the author the chance to highlight the importance of environmentally friendly lodgings and creative repurposing for a wedding venue event.

      There is a relationship between the academic discipline of interior architecture and Fort Widley. Students major in interior architecture would be able to take advantage of Fort Widley’s opportunities, which would provide them with a real world setting in which to apply for knowledge and skills.

      Historic Site: Students might concentrate on tasks like creating interior spaces that are useful, aesthetically pleasing, and conscious of the site’s history and tradition at the historic site.

      Sustainable Design: Fort Widley, which has to be repaired to become more energy–efficient, environment-friendly, and economically viable, might serve as a case study for sustainable design techniques. Research should be done by interior architecture students to find solutions to accommodate guests while reducing the site’s carbon footprint.

      Heritage Conservation: A military post that needs to be preserved for heritage purposes Fort Widley’s historical relevance makes it significant to the academic topic of heritage conservation. Students of interior architecture may look at ways to adapt and preserve historic structures while still meeting modern requirements.

       The Key drivers for investigating these links are:

      Enhancing student learning: Students studying interior architecture may gain practical experience and build professional abilities that will enable them to succeed in their future careers.

       Keeping Cultural Heritage safe: Cultural heritage must be kept safe in order to protect Fort Widley and other historic sites from neglect, destruction, and development.

       Taking care of environmental issues: Managing environmental issues is becoming more and more prevalent in interior architecture as a result of resource depletion and climate change. By considering the possibilities of Fort Widley, I believe it can contribute to the creation of more sustainably built habitats.

      As a result, this is the ideal chance for me to illustrate the relevance of my study’s topic, For Widley, which involves using adaptive reuse to create a location for a wedding celebration and lodging with sustainable solutions. 

      The following are the research aims for this proposal:

         While assessing the possible options for interior architecture students at Fort Widley, its historical significance, architectural features, and potential for adaptive reuse.

      ·    The research site’s initial topography and physical features.

      ·    Fort widley serves as a case study for environmentally conscious design methods that take into account viability, environmental effect, and energy efficiency. 

      ·   In order to improve learning outcomes, professional skills, and employability prospects for students pursuing interior architecture learning opportunities.

      ·    A filed investigation report on the following issues:

       . Arrangement of an existing building condition.

       . Site for landscape design surrounding.

       . Movement of the horizontal and vertical axes.

       . Accommodation, wedding hall, and reception.

       . Drawings of the interior architectural layout and detailing.

       . Circular shape staircase.

       . Design elements that require a 3d model will be taken into account, as will sectional elevations of the preliminary room number schedules, doors, hardware, sanitary fixtures, and finishes.

       . Plans for the buildings services

       . Fire safety strategy

       . Acoustic separation

       . The use of resources and the possibilities for waste management, recycling, and reuse.



      THE PROJECT BRIEF 

      Client: Deniz Beck 

      Project Overview 

      The goal of this project is to use sustainable practices to turn Fort Widley into a distinctive wedding location with lodging and reception areas. It is important to maintain and enhance the fort's historic features so that wedding celebrations will be unforgettable and environmental responsibility is upheld. To reduce its negative effects on the environment, the project should take sustainable design concepts and cutting-edge strategies into account.


      Key Project Requirements:

      1. Wedding Venue and Reception Facilities:

      In the fort, provide adaptable rooms that can hold wedding ceremonies, receptions, and related festivities. Include architectural and design components that accentuate the fort's historic appeal while fostering a posh and welcoming ambiance. Assure that there are sufficient amenities for dining, entertainment, and visitor comfort.

       2. Accommodation:

      Include hotel alternatives on the grounds of the fort to provide easy accommodations for wedding parties and visitors. Establish tasteful and cosy cottages, suites, or rooms while preserving the fort's ancient charm. Include guest-friendly features including restrooms, lounges, and communal spaces.

      3. Sustainable Solutions:

      Utilise green technology and methods throughout the project, such as waste management techniques, water conservation measures, and renewable energy systems.

      Include eco-friendly building materials, landscaping strategies, and building methods to reduce the project's carbon footprint.

      To improve sustainability, look into solutions for rainwater collection, solar energy use, effective insulation, and natural ventilation. 

      4. Accessibility and Safety:

      Ensure accessibility for all visitors, including those with disabilities, by making the necessary infrastructural and design changes. To ensure that guests are in a secure atmosphere, adhere to safety rules and do the appropriate assessments.


      CASE STUDIES:

      The first two case studies were investigated because they are comparable to my fort widley project in scope and scale in that they all involve altering or upgrading existing structures to provide sustainable solution facilities. The main exception is the project's Heritage designation, but they all face the same challenges when attempting to work within an existing structure.

      Designed by British practice Whittam Cox Architects:


      Park Hill - urban splash

      "Our responsibility is to interpret what is there and develop a design solution that ensures a long-term future for both the structure of this historically significant asset, while also seeking to promote a sustainable and diverse community," the author writes.

      Venetian examples of adaptive reuse: 
      from fortified castle to wedding destination. There are numerous mediaeval castles that have long served purposes other than that for which they were built across the Venetian Terraferma (and, in fact, throughout all of Europe). However, because they are made of stone, they are expensive to destroy and, more significantly, have significant historical value. Many of these fascinating palimpsests of the past have survived fires, earthquakes, and simple neglect because to the inventiveness of owners, architects, and towns in discovering ways to conserve and restore them.


      Fig: Fortified castle

      CONCEPT: SUSTAINABLE MODERN CONSERVATION

      Sustainability has grown in importance as a component of design and architecture in the modern world. In order to create environments that are both aesthetically beautiful and ecologically responsible, sustainable modernism emphasizes the integration of environmental, social, and economic factors. This article analyses the concept of adaptive reuse for a reception wedding venue accommodation within the context of a work-based learning course, exhibiting sustainable solutions and concepts that connect with the ideals of sustainable modernism.

      Historic Fort Widley is a long-abandoned fort that may be found in Portsmouth, England. However, the fort has the potential to be transformed into a modern conservation design that is sustainable and enables adaptive reuse as a location for wedding receptions and lodging.

      For this project, a number of creative solutions can be used to realize sustainable modern conservation concepts for the adaptive reuse of a wedding venue reception and accommodations. These options can lessen the venue's environmental effect while still giving the bridal party and their guests a special and unforgettable experience.

      The use of locally obtained and environmentally friendly materials is one of the main factors in sustainable conservation. This can entail employing recycled products, salvaged timber, and eco-friendly building materials. These components can be employed to provide a lovely and rural ambiance that blends well with the surroundings.


      11th MAY 2023 - PROPOSED DRAWINGS AND 3D IMAGES OF FINAL DESIGN






      Fig: section drawing accommodation



      Fig: Toilet Details






      Fig : Reception & wedding venue Section drawing


      Fig : Reception Wedding hall venue 3d image 

      The design idea centers on converting an outdated industrial structure into a sustainable lodging facility that satisfies the demands of contemporary society. The focus is on eco-friendly elements and sustainable practices that help lessen one's environmental footprint. By emphasizing important components like renewable energy sources, effective space utilization, natural lighting, and green spaces, the 3D design graphic effectively captures the essence of the project.






      Fig : Accomadation 3D image 

      This work-based learning course provides an opportunity to explore the transformative potential of adaptive reuse while inspiring students to embrace sustainability in their future architectural endeavors.

      SUSTAINABLE IDEAS:
      This article investigates the idea of sustainable modernism and offers creative suggestions for integrating sustainable solutions in projects that adaptively repurpose existing buildings for housing.

      The aims, scope, and resources of a conservation project will determine how precisely the SoloLift system will be implemented. The SoloLift technology would need to be customised and work with authorities in wastewater management and conservation in order to be successfully integrated into the project.

      Here's a concept of how it can be utilized:

        Fig : Solo Lift Work System Diagrams

      Rainwater harvesting for conservation projects is the most efficient technique that may be employed in the UK. The following is a general overview of how rainwater collection may be used in the UK for a conservation project:


      Fig: rainwater harvesting diagram


      ENERGY SOURCES
      By utilizing renewable energy sources like solar power in conservation initiatives, Fortwidley may see a significant reduction in carbon emissions and a promotion of renewable energy. Below is a description of how solar or wind energy can be incorporated into a conservation project.
                                                                      Fig : solar energy diagram

                                                                  Fig: Transportation


      CONCLUSION: 
      The idea of sustainable modernism in adaptive reuse for housing demonstrates the effectiveness of fusing sustainable principles with contemporary design methodologies. We may design green living areas that improve resource efficiency and community well-being by reusing existing structures and implementing sustainable solutions. Sustainable modernism provides the way for a more sustainable and bright future by utilizing energy efficiency, water conservation, the use of sustainable materials, and community integration. Adopting this idea will enable us to improve the built environment while minimizing our environmental impact.

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