MSA Stage 5 School of Architecture
Ailsa Innes
Projects
Taxonomy of Stone
The citizens of Marseille akin to the rest of France are passionate in voicing their opinions. However, all too often these views and morals felt by the community aren’t listened to within the decisions of city development.
Therefore, this thesis is about creating architecture that holds the concerns of Marseille citizens at the forefront of decision making. Particularly regarding the development of historic sites and understanding the appropriate options available to provide a celebration of their heritage.
This thesis attests to these principles through utilising the site of the ancient Greek limestone quarry on Boulevard de la Corderie. This site was at the centre of protests after proposals to build a housing development over the quarry were publicised. This objection provides an opportunity to broach this complex matter through providing a different use for the site, opening it up to the city rather than using it for private gain.
Therefore, the intent is to establish a transparent resource focused on providing the citizens of Marseille with a greater connection to the city. Instead of disregarding the heritage of the site, this proposal celebrates the city’s roots, focusing on the resource which initially built this city, stone. Through creation of a publicly accessible programme celebrating the site’s past and providing innovation for the future through a stone research hub.
Understanding the context surrounding the protests around the site and wider protests to do with Marseille’s history and built environment has aided in creating an understanding of an approach that will most suit the citizens of this city. Understanding the sites previous uses also informed justified reasoning for an appropriate use of the site.
Through testing different methods this informed a line of intervention that provides a use, aesthetic and nature that will allow this site to realise its full potential once more whilst still being respectful to the history of such an important site.
Through this approach the proposal works to facilitate a sense of belonging, purpose, and direction for the citizens of Marseille. Providing a space which fosters a connection to the history of the city.