Practice and Collaboration 4.

1 (INT9012)
Master of Arts in Interior Architecture and Design
INT9003M

Jehan Zaib, Mlambo, Damilare-Adebisi and Hassan

Lincoln School of Design

UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN
Historic Area Assessment: Project 1, 2023-24 (October 2023-Intake)
Jehan Zaib, Mlambo, Damilare-Adebisi and Hassan

Submitted in fulfillment of a part of the requirements for the degree Master of Arts in Interior Architecture and
Design

Lincoln School of Design

UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN

Supervisor: Mr. Denver Hendricks

Module: Practice and Collaboration
INT9012
October 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS

1
INTRODUCTION

PART - A
2

HISTORY OF THE CITY OF LINCOLN
2
1.1. Notable historic monuments 3
1.2. Buildings of heritage significance

1.2.1. Character Areas

1.2.2. Heritage Assessment - Precinct

5
SITE MAPPING
5
RECOMMENDATIONS TO AFFECT OR RETAIN THE CHARACTER AND
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE;
6

SITE ANALYSIS
4.1. Zone 1: High Street
4.2. Zone 2: Cornhill
4.3. Zone 3: Cornhill Backside Piazza
4.4. Zone 4: St. Benedict Square
4.5. Conclusion 8

AN ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING PROPOSALS FOR CHANGE

9
A SHORTLIST OF BUILDINGS / SITES / ISSUES WHICH CAN BE
DEVELOPED
10
IDENTIFICATION OF SUB-AREAS FOR MORE DETAILED
ASSESSMENT IN FUTURE.
11
PART - B

PROPOSALS FOR REGENERATION OF THE PRECINCT;

8.1. Zone 1: High Street
8.2. Zone 2: Cornhill
8.3. Zone 3: Cornhill Backside Piazza
8.4. Zone 4: St. Benedict Square

17
CONCLUSION

REFERENCES

ALPHA - OCTOBER 2023 iii

 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1: Collage of High Street (Photoshop)

Figure 1.2: Facadeof High Street (Photoshop)

Figure 1.3: Evolution of High Street (Miro Board)

Figure 1.4: Listed Building in Lincoln (Internet Research)

Figure 1.5: Map of Character Area (CAD)

Figure 1.6: Map of Precint Selected (CAD)

Figure 2.1: Brainstorm and Mental Map (CAD and Photoshop)

Figure 3.1: Site Mapping (Map Box and Photoshop)

Figure 4.1: Site Analysis Zone 01 - High Street (Photoshop)

Figure 4.2: Site Analysis Zone 02 - CornHill (Photoshop)

Figure 4.3: Site Analysis Zone 03 - CornHill Piazza (Photoshop)

Figure 4.4: Site Analysis Zone 04 - st. Benedict square (Photoshop)

Figure 5.1: St Mary’s Guildhall - Proposal for change (Internet Research)

Figure 5.2: Barbican Hotel - Proposal for change (Internet Research)

Figure 5.3: High Bridge - Proposal for change (Internet Research)

Figure 6.1: Barbican Hotel - Can be developed (Internet Research)

Figure 6.2: 190 & 191, High Street - Can be developed (Internet Research)

igure 6.3: High Bridge - Can be developed (Internet Research)

Figure 7.1: Zone 05- WaterBody Regenration- identification of sub-areas for more detailed

assessment in future.

Figure 7.2: Zone 05- Landmark & Node Regenration- identification of sub-areas for more detailed

assessment in future.

Figure 8.1.1: Zone 01- Case Study (Internet Research)

Figure 8.1.1: Zone 01-Proposal Collage (Photoshop)

Figure 8.2.1: Zone 02- Case Study (Internet Research)

Figure 8.2.2: Zone 02-Proposal Collage (Photoshop)

Figure 8.2.3: Zone 02-Proposal Collage (Photoshop)

Figure 8.3.1: Zone 03- Case Study (Internet Research)

Figure 8.3.2: Zone 03-Proposal Collage (Photoshop)

Figure 8.3.3: Zone 03-Proposal Collage (Photoshop)

Figure 8.4.1: Zone 04- Case Study (Internet Research)

Figure 8.4.2: Zone 04-Proposal Collage (Photoshop)

Figure 8.4.3: Zone 04-Proposal Collage (Photoshop)

iv
INTRODUCTION

Figure 1.1: Collage of High Street, Lincoln

With the growing need to reduce carbon emissions, the building industry is consistently exploring interventions that can
be implemented to reduce its carbon footprint. According to the World Green Building Council, “Buildings are currently
responsible for 39% of global energy related carbon emissions: 28% from operational emissions, from energy needed
to heat, cool and power them, and the remaining 11% from materials and construction.” [1] This insight has fuelled the
move to repurpose and reuse existing buildings as much as possible. Adaptive reuse is a concept within the disciple
of conservation that aims to revitalize existing, underutilized buildings while retaining their cultural significance and
repurposing them to suit the needs of modern day society. This concept aims to strike a balance between the past and
present.

This study aims to identify a precinct and key zones within it that require interventions. The precinct is one that will be
strategically be located in an area that has listed heritage buildings, public spaces that are underutilized, and areas with
a lack of identity. In order to contextualise it, this study will investigate the criteria with which it was selected, the history of
the city of Lincoln and how it has contributed to the urban development and planning of the city.

Figure 1.2: Facade of High Street, Lincoln

ALPHA - OCTOBER 2023 1

 PART - A
HISTORY OF THE CITY OF LINCOLN

The history of the city of Lincoln in the United Kingdom can be traced back to two millennia ago. It is a city that is rich
in heritage and marked by remarkable historical events. This brief summary will highlight the key events that have been
instrumental in the formation and expansion of the city.

The Romans formed a settlement known as Lindum Colonia in the first century AD, this settlement was a key outpost
on the Ermine street, a major Roman road constructed during the first and second centuries AD. The first notable event
was the construction of the Roman road. The road started in London and was extended to York as the conquest of Britain
progressed. It was designed to give direct passage and connection to the main centres of the military occupation in Lincoln
and York. This was an important building block to the inception of Lincoln’s urban development. According to Roman
writers, the tribe in this area was the Corieltauvii. Their territory was in what is now known as the English East Midlands,
in the counties of Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Rutland and Northamptonshire. [3] The

Figure 1.3: Evolution of High Street

1.1 NOTABLE HISTORIC MONUMENTS

Ermine Street “ Ermine Street, major Roman road in England between London and York. The road was built within
the first three decades after the Roman invasion of Britain in 43 CE and expanded north with the
continuing conquest. ” [4]

Lincoln Cathedral “ Lincoln Cathedral was commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1072 and is one of England’s
finest Gothic cathedrals. For many years it housed a copy of the Magna Carta and was the world’s tallest
building. ” [5]

Bishop’s Palace “ Constructed in the 11th century the Bishop of Lincoln’s Medieval Palace was once one of the most
impressive buildings in the country. It entertained Henry VIII and James I and many of the elite of English
society. Severely damaged during the Civil War, it was subsequently abandoned and fell into disrepair
before undergoing restoration in 1876 and then again in 2021. ” [6]

Lincoln Castle “ Lincoln Castle was begun in 1068 by William I (the Conqueror) on the site of a Roman fort.
Constructed of timber, William’s castle was destroyed by fire in 1113 and rebuilt in stone. From the 18th
century I was used as a prison and today houses the Crown Court. It also contains one of the copies of
the Magna Carta. ” [7]

Saint Peter Church “ Saint Peter at Gowts Church, Lincoln, is of Saxon origin, and dates to the 11th century. Constructed
of coursed rubble and dressed stone with ashlar dressings and a slate roof, it contains both rounded
and pointed-arched windows, showing its Norman and Gothic roots. Having undergone substantial
development over the years, it is still in use today as the parish church of St Peter at Gowts and St
Andrew. ” [8]

Lincoln Crown Court “ The first stone was laid on the 10th of March, 1823, and it was sufficiently completed in 1826 as
to permit the business of the March assizes to be transacted in it. The total cost of the building and its
internal decorations amounted to nearly £40,000. ” [9]

Norman House “ Norman House was, according to tradition, built for Aaron of Lincoln: a Jewish moneylender around
1170 who advanced large sums of money to nobility, including King Henry II. ” [10]

The Jew House “ The house has traditionally been associated with the thriving Jewish community in Medieval Lincoln,
thought to have last belonged to Belaset, daughter of Solomon of Wallingford, before the expulsion of the
Jews from England in 1290. ” [11]

2
 St Mary’s Guildhall “ St Mary’s Guildhall, Lincoln is a domestic complex, which is believed to have been constructed as a
townhouse for Henry II’s crown-wearing ceremonies of Christmas 1157. Its’ Great Hall measuring 20m
(65.6 ft) by 6.5m (21 ft), makes it amongst the largest Great Hall in a surviving building from the 12th
century. ” [12]

Stone High Bridge “ The stone High Bridge was built around 1160, possibly replacing a wooden bridge. The first building
to be built on the bridge, that is now part of Lincoln High Street, was a chapel, dedicated to Thomas
Becket - a common occurrence on Medieval English bridges. ” [13]

Church of St Benedict “ The Church of St Benedict dates from the early 13th century and early 14th century. The nave and
north aisle were demolished and then rebuilt from old materials in the mid-17th century. ” [14]

Exchange Arcade “ Grade II listed former corn exchange and market building, now restaurant, covered market and bingo
club, dating from 1879 and by Bellamy & Hardy. They were converted in the late 20th century. They are
brick with stone dressings, iron piers and
joists and have slate and lead roofs with two gable stacks and three gabled ventilators. They are in
Italianate style. ” [15]

St Mary le Wigford “ An eleventh century church with later additions and alterations from the medieval period onwards.
Anglo-Saxon The west tower is Anglo-Saxon 11th century and has a reset stone with Roman and Anglo-Saxon
inscriptions ” (PRN 70030) [16]

1.2. BUILDING OF HERITAGE SIGNIFICANCE: LISTED BUILDINGS IN LINCOLN

“ Lincoln has 418 Listed Buildings, ranging in date from the Roman period through to the 1950s, including churches,
private and commercial properties, statues, parish boundary stones and telephone boxes.

Buildings are graded as follows:

• Grade I – Buildings of exceptional interest
• Grade II – Buildings of special interest that warrant every effort being made to preserve them
• Grade II* – Particularly important buildings of more than special interest

Most buildings on the list were selected in the course of the national re-survey of listed buildings which began in 1970.
Some were already on the list at that time, many from 1953. Others have been added in addition to this process. It is open
to anyone to apply for a building to be listed; the decision rests with the Secretary of State, after taking advice from Historic
England. ” [17]

Figure 1.4: Listed Building in Lincoln

The development of the city centre can be noted as forming around precinct A. This precinct can be characterised as the
historic part of the city centre. Precinct B can be characterised as the mostly cultural and partially commercial areas that
transitions into the High Street Action Zone.

The High Street is the precinct that was selected for due to the identification of zones that require revitalization and
activation.

ALPHA - OCTOBER 2023 3

 Figure 1.5: Map of Character Areas

Figure 1.6: Map of the precinct selected

4
SITE MAPPING
Brain-stroming and Mental Map

Figure 2.1: Brain-Stroming and Mental Map

RECOMMENDATIONS TO AFFECT OR RETAIN THE CHARACTER AND CULTURAL

SIGNIFICANCE:

Endorsements to enhance the existing

demographic considerations that are already
present on the site in the form of shopping
areas, a café, and a central meeting space.
To encourage interaction and collaboration the
support is to be reserved by existing features
of multigenerational utility, cultural diversity,
and socio-economic factors. This encourages
the in cooperation of inclusive Design factors
such as flexible communal seating, gathering
areas, and participatory art installations. To
promote inclusively and a sense of belonging
respect to existing historical identities is to be
paid which assists in maintaining a balance
between preserving the original character of
the street and introducing new elements with
selective restoration and ruination, along with
the integration of new and worn architectural
styles.

Accessibility and linkage should coexist with

the diverse functions of welcoming spaces
which, can be introduced via interactive
design principles and cultural programming.
To serve the needs of various segments of the
community as per user analysis and community
needs assessments different recessions planes
(Edward N. Bacon) for the cultural festivals, art
exhibitions, and performances can be kept in
consideration while responsive designing.

Figure 3.1: Site Mapping

ALPHA - OCTOBER 2023 5

 SITE ANALYSIS
4.1. Zone 01- HIGH STREET

Figure 4.1: Site Analysis Zone 01 - High Street

When analyzed, the street characters as a series of living spaces, promenades, and informal streets, encourage
interaction and end up the vividness, underutilization, and diverse activities primarily social throughout the day. However,
a public trail for the social and economic exchanges to occur, the continuity to produce a socially responsive communal
space with characteristics of access and linkage along with usage and activity while keeping the bubble of comfort makes
it capable of being intervened with additive transformations for visual transparency as a medium to open up closed spaces
for human activities to occur. Considering the structure, atmosphere, and pattern of the context, the opportunity remains to
design a response for the ‘locale’, the users, programs of the site, and its immediate as well as the larger context, taking
inspiration from homegrown, as well as foreign construction and design techniques.

4.2. ZONE 02 – CORNHILL:

Figure 4.2: Site Analysis Zone 02 - CornHill

6
 The Zone structures a dominant open plan that acts as a central gathering space featuring a tree with pavers and
a cemented bench which makes it flexibly conducive for events and gatherings to engage locals and visitors. The
historic Santander bank building acts as a central focal point and enriches the site with the city’s social, economic, and
architectural fabric. It also provides a stage for new recessions spaces to be set up. The exposed plan also facilitates
the in-cooperation of seating, lighting, potentially greenery spaces, and a forum for public art. As it the predominantly
accessible on foot, it is open and used as a secondary pathway to access the other side of the structure and also the
Lincoln bus and train station which are in the vicinity. The approach that connects the region with the high street is often
utilized by a vegetable and fruit stall apart from promotional displays. Diversity of businesses such as banks, jewellery,
stationery, and other items ensures the flow of multi-generations and thus, asks the architect to consider the flexibility
among all ages before any newer intervention.

4.3. ZONE 03 – CORNHILL PIAZZA:

Figure 4.3: Site Analysis Zone 03 - CornHill Piazza

This zone combines different forms and features with different densities and materials to shape the piazza with a deeper
impact on human brain dynamics. It has a sense of history which, can be experienced by the static identity concepts of
old structures with the systematic chaos. The relationship of space with perception which, is subjective to the user allows
it to be differentiated from other zones based on situational personality. The newer extensions and renovations to the
building add to the spatial environment which, provides a system of mutually replacing and interacting modern architectural
identities that maximize the possibilities of linking history to the city. This integration of visuals strengthens the opportunity
for this isolated square to be utilized as socially productive for the local community is primarily present. The open plan
gives the possible activities an opportunity in the space to diffuse into each other and a diverse sense of place.

4.4. ZONE 04: ST. BENEDICT SQUARE

A historically dominant zone with the presence of St. Benedict Church and the Lincoln War Memorial
Challenges the individual with a need to integrate the concept of enclosure and exposure with an internalized, evolving
story of the site, that provides a sense of inside-ness along with the demand to learn about the history to attain a degree of
attachment and involvement. The ongoing conversion between the zone being factually momentous and still abandoned
raises the need for the facades to be permeable and flexible functions to be incorporated. Like other cultural heritage sites
this square provides a cultural identity and heritage to the city which, opens up the way to revive the nostalgia of this lost
space to be restored as a welcoming and comfortable space for the use to gain a former authentic state and significance.
The green area has the qualities to facilitate functionality, relaxation & meditation through a biophilic approach. It allows the
user to step back from day-to-day life and slow down, relax, and unwind by turning all distractions off ideal for reading. A
nearly ruin, but salvageable increases the demand for a determined rehabilitation program to restore its rightful glory.

ALPHA - OCTOBER 2023 7

 Figure 4.4: Site Analysis Zone 04 - BENEDICT SQUARE
AN ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING PROPOSALS FOR CHANGE
5.1. ST MARY’S GUILDHALL, COVENTRY
Figure 5.1: St Mary’s Guildhall - Proposal for change
Figure 5.2: Barbican Hotel - Proposal for change
8
St Mary’s Guildhall is a domestic complex, which is believed to
have been constructed as a townhouse for Henry II’s crown-wearing
ceremonies of Christmas 1157. It’s Great Hall measures 20m by 6.5m,
making this structure one of the biggest great hall’s in a heritage
building from the 12th century. [12]
The interventions implement at St. Mary’s Guildhall include a stair lift
from the Medieval Kitchen to the Muniment Room as well as a lift from
the Kitchen to the Gallery. A lift from the courtyard to the restaurant
Tales of Tea located within the under croft of the Guildhall. There is
also a 360° movable image available to view on the new tablet digital
tour, which enable areas which do not have step free access to be
viewed. There is also a new spiral staircase in the Great Hall that
allows greater access to be used in conjunction with the old stone
staircase. [18]
The interventions implemented were to serve the purpose of retaining
the cultural and historic significance of the building while making it
functional for the users. (The Burra Charter, 2013). The interventions
are non-imposing and non-invasive and respect the character of the
building.
5.2. Barbican Hotel
The Lincoln City Council (2018) has proposed to alter the previous
function of Barbican Hotel into an art centre. Due to its closure, the
Barbican Hotel was undergoing severe decay, which raised the
possibility that it might lose architectural features that are important to
the building’s historical significance and the conservation area’s overall
character.
The building’s proximity to Lincoln’s new transportation hub and its
placement among neighbouring designated heritage assets, such as
the St. Mary Le Wigford Church (Grade I), Lincoln Central Railway
Station (Grade II) and Lincoln Central Bus Station, make The Barbican
a significant first impression for visitors in Lincoln.
The building should not be limited to just an art centre and should
portray the impression of a mixed-used building. It aims to make it
easy for denizens to access given areas. Mix-use integrates various
functions within a building or within an area, where a variety of
activities and functions are threaded within a single area or building.
This type of property demonstrates a variety of living activities due
to its excellent accessibility for its many purposes and location in the
neighbourhood of its occupants (Narvaez & Penn, 2016).
 5.3. High Bridge
Proposed changes to Lincoln High Bridge are centred on a comprehensive
refurbishment and upgrade plan. The goal is to make the bridge safer,
easier to use, and better able to perform its functions. Increasing the
safety, usefulness, and visual appeal of the bridge are the main goals
of this idea. Many people see the High Bridge as an important part of
history and culture. It is known for having Roman roots and a medieval
style of architecture. Because of this, any changes made to its physical
makeup are very important.

The suggested changes could have a big effect on what Lincoln

High Bridge is all about and how important it is to culture. Adding
repairs to a bridge could make it safer and easier for people to use.
But it is very important to find a good balance if we want to keep the
bridge’s historical appeal and good looks. Please be very careful when
dealing with the bridge’s unique features, which are deeply rooted in
the city’s culture, in order to protect its historical accuracy and personal
significance to the people who live there.

Figure 5.3: High Bridge - Proposal for change

A SHORTLIST OF BUILDINGS / SITES / ISSUES WHICH CAN BE DEVELOPED

6.1. Barbican Hotel

This is a Grade II listed building in Lincoln City, it was listed on

16th July 2021. The Barbican Hotel in St Mary’s Street in Lincoln the
hotel building, which has stood empty since 2008. It was originally
a gentleman’s club called the Lincoln Club House which dates from
1867. The building was designed by local architect Michael Drury and
later a hotel with alterations during the 1890s by Goddard & Sons and
Messers W Watkins & Sons, and further alterations during the C20. It
became the Albion Hotel in the 1870s and was renamed the Barbican
in the 1980s.

Barbican Hotel, Lincoln, Lincolnshire (britishlistedbuildings.co.uk)

Figure 6.1: Barbican Hotel - Can be developed

6.2. 190 and 191, High Street

This is a Grade II Listed Building in Lincoln, 190 and 191 High Street
was listed on the 9 March 1973. This building is located in a highly
pedestrianized High Street and in close proximity to the award-winning
Cornhill-Quarter. It is a four floor, 620 square meter building. The
construction can be traced back from 1896 to 1897, it was altered in
the mid-20th century and restored in 1992. “It is brick with a terracotta
front made by Doulton of Lambeth, and has a slate roof with two side
wall stacks with cornices. It is in Gothic/Renaissance Revival style.”

(Lincolnshire Heritage Explorer)

Figure 6.2: 190 & 191, High Street - Can be developed

ALPHA - OCTOBER 2023 9

 6.3. High Bridge

High Bridge, is a medieval stone arched bridge built in 1160 AD. It’s
one of only three bridges with buildings on it remaining in England.
The bridge chapel was dedicated to the murdered Archbishop of
Canterbury, Thomas Becket, and the characteristic timber-framed
shops were added in the 1550s. The bridge has caused floods in
Lincoln since the 14th century, but it’s still a unique and charming
structure. Today, the shop fronts are occupied by a cafe and a
traditional English bakery. The steps leading down the side provide the
best view of the bridge.

Figure 6.3: High Bridge - Can be developed

AN ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING PROPOSALS FOR CHANGE

Figure 7.1: Zone 05- Water Body Regeneration- identification of sub-areas for more detailed assessment in future.

The aim is to transform obsolete or isolated water body strips into socially productive ones for the local community. To
improve the existing public facility, seeking a solution that would reactivate the entire Park as a public destination within
the City. Targeting the re-establishment of the natural landscape and fulfilling an entire urban regeneration, turning it into
a major urban and ecological landmark for the city to be used throughout all seasons. The plan should connect facilities
through a system of meandering interweaved pedestrian paths, allowing easy pedestrian accessibility between all of
them, and transforming the entire river front into a prominent public natural destination. Programmatic interventions for
entertainment and leisure spaces within the natural environment are to be envisioned, offering valuable interactions with
nature. The project can come with facilities and a wide range of spaces for practising a wide range of sports, resting areas,
shading structures, and natural kids’ play scapes, resulting in a multifunctional park suitable for all kinds of ages.

10
Figure 7.2: Zone 05- Landmark , Nodes Regeneration- identification of sub-areas for more detailed assessment in future.

PART - B
8.1: ZONE 01- HIGH STREET: PROPOSAL FOR REGENERATION OF THE PRECINCT:

Figure 8.1.1: Zone 01- Case Study

The aim was to facilitate the concept of plug & play in the program that caters to facilities of functionality and public
life. The user will utilize the street not just as a walkway but, for the secondary purpose of promoting communal
interaction through flexibility (allowing programs to operate as nigh life) and sharing common recession planes which,
are reinvented in the placemaking process for the heart of Lincoln. To improve the existing public facility, importance is
given to transforming obsolete paths into socially reactivated and productive public destinations within the city. Targeting
a collaborative process to shape the public realm by fulfilling urban regeneration, turning it into a major urban and social
landmark that can be used throughout all year with variations in the climate. The interventions facilitate the creative
patterns of use such as meetings, Cafes, and shopping while paying particular attention to the physical and social identities
that support the evolution. To negotiate between businesses and approach, transition spaces are incorporated via additions
of shaded pathways, seating spaces, and water bodies while making use of existing elements such as benches, cemented
green pods, landmarks, and nodes.

ALPHA - OCTOBER 2023 11

 The plan connects facilities through a system of destinations that give an identity and image to the community and help
attract visitors, businesses, and investment. With the assistance of a gateway on the edge of the high street, the viewer
will get the element of approach and arrival as discussed in Edmund N. Bacon’s Design of Cities. Facilitating public arts
to attract participation in abstract expressionism gathered from activities happening around. This will help the project to
portray a good image by making the user comfortable.
Programmatic interventions for entertainment and leisure spaces within the natural environment are envisioned, resulting
in multifunctional street furniture as a strip running in the middle along the horizontal plane suitable for all kinds of ages,
evolving itself for reading, eating, sitting, and absorbing the environment. This will in turn result in a sociable environment
that acts as a catalyst to gather people and make them visit again.

Figure 8.1.2: Zone 01 - Proposal Collage

12
8.2: ZONE 02
CORNHILL: PROPOSAL FOR REGENERATION OF THE PRECINCT:

Figure 8.2.1: Zone 02- Case Study

‘A clear image of the city enables one to move about easily and quickly, but also gives the possessor an important sense
of emotional security and intensity of human experience.’ Lynch. K.A.
Through the site analysis, it was determined that the square is in need of interventions that will assist in creating a
distinct identity for the space. There is a need to enhance the visual quality of the space using five elements; Paths,
edges, nodes, districts and landmarks. This is the guiding principle that has influenced the decision to create covered
walkways along the edges of the zone to facilitate the transition from the buildings into the public space. The covered
walkways would also served the purpose of increasing the comfortability for the users against the elements, thus ensuring
a consistent use of the public space all year round. The installation of the play area would serve as a landmark and focal
point for pedestrians along High street and would ensure that the variety of demographics and age groups are catered
for in the city centre. The park would bring a much needed green space in the area that will allow users the opportunity to
slow down and enjoy the city life. The park, play area and seating areas would be the districts that have different function
catering for different users.

Figure 8.2.2: Zone 02- Proposal Collage

ALPHA - OCTOBER 2023 13

 Figure 8.2.2.: Zone 02-Proposal Collage

8.3: ZONE 03
CORNHILL PIAZZA: PROPOSAL FOR REGENERATION OF THE PRECINCT:

Figure 8.3.1: Zone 03 - Case Study

Urban public spaces are essential for fostering social interactions and are presumed to advance the design of a
sustainable, safe and sound, as well as a vibrant city. In this space social interactions with its environment are primarily
visible. The focus is to improve the existing design and facilities within this zone, which will in turn give aesthetic and
make it more functional. Currently the open space is underutilized compared to the activities happening around the space.
According to (Koohsari et al., 2015b) Public open spaces such as parks and green spaces are key built environment
elements within neighbourhoods for encouraging a variety of physical activity behaviours. Therefore, the concept and
method that will be incorporated as analysed by Ned Crankshaw Creating Vibrant Public Spaces will be considered.

14
 The intervention is to create techniques for revitalizing the public space of the district in a way that preserves their
historic character and makes them viable alternatives to suburban sprawl.

Materials selection will give an approach that communicates a more visible façade to the environment and nightlife. This
will attract people within and around the city of Lincoln to spend some valuable time in the space. The ETFE material will
be considered to shade the open public space, this helps to reduce solar gain while retaining transparency to the space.
The Conceptual design for the installation of the material will be different hexagonal shapes to form the shade pattern. For
nightlife the use of LED strip light will be used with this material to give it more aesthetic at night.

The improvement of landscaping (green area, walkway and setting out) will help promote the significance of the space
and give a sustainable environment. For more social interaction to this space the introduction of green plants with colourful
flowers will be hung underneath the shade to more appeal the environment. According to Gehl and Koch (1987), social
interaction in open spaces offers an opportunity to be with other people in a relaxing and undemanding way. This will in
turn give it a greenhouse/ green home concept. This helps to improve the quality of air under the shade, boost environment
quality, promote healthy living and create vibrant public space (Creating vibrant public spaces by Ned Crankshaw).

Figure 8.3.2.: Zone 02: Proposal Collage

Figure 8.3.3.: Zone 02- Proposal Collage

ALPHA - OCTOBER 2023 15

 8.4: ZONE 04
ST. BENEDICT SQUARE: PROPOSAL FOR REGENERATION OF THE PRECINCT:

Figure 8.4.1: Zone 04 - Case Study

The aim is to not just transform the region physically but, to create a vibrant community hub, making it welcoming, and
providing a communal atmosphere. The approach is defined by the introduction of a wooden gateway which, provides the
essence of arrival (Edward N. Bacon). The seating is introduced to enhance the communal gathering function and has the
flexibility of being shaded or open to the sky for the user to either respite from the unpredictable weather or relish sunlight.
The green area will act as a node to promote a tranquil space for relaxation, reflection, and socializing as a communal
surplus. The contemporary water body offers visual appeal and sensory sounds, Temporary stalls promote local vendors
thus, encouraging social interaction and shared experiences. For nightlife to revive rope lighting will illuminate the pathway.

Figure 8.4.2: Zone 04- Proposal Collage

16
Figure 8.4.3: Zone 04 - Proposal Collage

CONCLUSION

Determinately, the objectives were to investigate an urban context through the lens of history and social sustainability
while primarily introducing aspects of public facilities and regenerating the communal surplus. Analysing the precinct for
its hidden possibilities and demographic characteristics to breathe in the sense of place and enhance the usability of the
space. Incorporating elements of the city (Kevin Lynch) envisioned public realm and spatial dimensions while keeping
up with the narrative, and identity of the place. Each proposal was aimed to be subjective to its zone, making the design
context-specific thus, reducing the cost, and labor and additionally transforming the efficiency of problem-solving. The
districts are looked at through the eyes of accessibility, sociability, comfort, and user activities. Thus, the solutions revolve
around aspects of social, economic, and environmental significance. To strike a balance between preserving the historical
significance and adapting it to the current needs of the user, informed decisions derived from the theoretical approach
were taken. This involved the utilization of appropriate materials, geometry, and aspects of architectural integrity.

ALPHA - OCTOBER 2023 17

 REFERENCES:

[1] https://worldgbc.org/advancing-net-zero/embodied-carbon/#:~:text=Buildings%20are%20currently%20responsible%20
for,11%25%20from%20materials%20and%20construction. Accessed 02 November 2023
[2] Bullen P.A., Love P.E.D. Adaptive reuse of heritage buildings. Structural Survey. 2011;29(5):411–421
[3] https://www.romanobritain.org/4-celt/clb_tribe_corieltauvi.php
[4] https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ermine-Street
[5] http://www.famous-historic-buildings.org.uk/lincoln.html
[6] http://www.famous-historic-buildings.org.uk/bishops-medieval-palace-lincoln.html
[7] http://www.famous-historic-buildings.org.uk/lincoln_castle.html
[8] http://www.famous-historic-buildings.org.uk/st-peter-at-gowts-church-lincoln.html
[9] Allen, Thomas (1833). “The history of the county of Lincoln”. p. 200.
[10] https://www.visitlincoln.com/things-to-do/norman-house
[11] https://www.visitlincoln.com/things-to-do/jews-house
[12] http://www.famous-historic-buildings.org.uk/st-marys-guildhall-lincoln.html
[13] https://www.visitlincoln.com/things-to-do/high-bridge
[14] https://heritage-explorer.lincolnshire.gov.uk/Monument/MLI83056
[15] https://heritage-explorer.lincolnshire.gov.uk/Monument/MLI93783
[16] https://heritage-explorer.lincolnshire.gov.uk/Monument/MLI89088
[17] City of Lincoln Council, https://www.lincoln.gov.uk/planning/conservation-archaeology-heritage/6
• Crankshaw, N. (2012). Creating Vibrant Public Spaces. Island Press.
• J Gehl and J Koch (1987). Life Between Building: Using Public Space. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold Company.
• Koohsari, M.J., Mavoa, S., Villanueva, K., Sugiyama, T., Badland, H., Kaczynski, A.T., Owen, N. and Giles-Corti , B. (2015).
Public open space, physical activity, urban design and public health: Concepts, methods and research agenda. Health & Place,
(online) 33, pp.75-82

Kevin Lynch : Elements of urban design

Edward N. Bacon : Design of cities

Infographics Used in Site Analysis of each zone Infographics Used in Site Analysis of each zone
https://alexandrasteedurban.com/project/south-essex-strategic-green-and-blue-infrastructure- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1110016819300110#f0005n

xxii
Questions Asked for Site Analysis: What makes a great public space?

WHAT MAKES A GREAT PUBLIC SPACE?

Questions to consider on Access & Linkages:

• Can you see the space from a distance? Is its interior visible from the outside?
The main high street can be seen but not the piazza’s as they cater the character of enclosure & exposure
Hocks & corners lack Perceived accessibility
• Is there a good connection between the space and the adjacent buildings, or is it surrounded by blank walls? Do occupants of adjacent buildings use thespace?
The facades are blank and dead, Only eye level contact. No balcony or transparency in facades
• Can people easily walk to the place? For example, do they have to dart between moving cars to get to the place?
Accessible easily via walk as Vehicular circulation banned or tightly controlled
• Do sidewalks lead to and from the adjacent areas?
Yes, Accessibility to and from the space/connectivity
• Does the space function for people with special needs?
Yes, has ramps, even level & smooth surfaces for differently abled (considered appropriate horizontal surface treatments
• Do the roads and paths through the space take people where they actually want to go?
A safe, accessible, and equitable space for all users regardless of physical or cognitive ability.
• Can people use a variety of transportation options - bus train, car, bicycle, etc. - to reach the place? Wig ford way, Mint St
• Are transit stops conveniently located next to destinations such as libraries, post offices, park entrances, etc.?
Lincoln Central Bus station & Lincoln, Saint Mary's Street Station (Distance 150 m)

Questions to consider on Comfort & Image:

• Does the place make a good first impression?
1. Well maintained, clean
2. Comfortable microclimate
3. Adaptable
4. Variety of details
5. Carefully considered and appropriate horizontal surface treatments
6. Feeling of safety (unthreatening)
• Are there more women than men? Yes - Shopping, Socializing, Café & Food
• Are there enough places to sit? Are seats conveniently located? Do people have is a choice of places to sit, either in the sun or shade?
1. Exposed Sitting – Troubles when raining
2. Distant Benches
• Are spaces being clean and free of litter? Who is responsible for maintenance? What do they do? When?
Well maintained and clean, Maintained by Lincolnshire County Council
• Does the area feel safe? Is there a security presence? If so, what do these people do? When are they on duty?
Neighborhood watch, Human scale, Comfortable microclimate
• Are people taking pictures? Are there many photo opportunities available? Visitors & Tourist, Heritage sites
• Do vehicles dominate pedestrian use of the space, or prevent them from easily getting to the space?
Vehicular circulation banned or tightly controlled, Bicycles only

Questions to consider on uses & activities:

• Are people using the space or is it empty?
• How many different types of activities are occurring - people walking, eating, playing baseball, chess, relaxing, reading?
1. Street Performances
2. Reading/Relaxing
3. Photography
4. Education
5. Volunteering
6. Community Engagement
7. Dinning
8. Shopping
9. Sightseeing/Tourism
10. Pet Walking/Socializing
• Is it used by people of different ages? Multi-generational
• Are people in groups? Students, Family, Friends
• Which parts of the space are used and which are not?
High Street Used, Piazzas in front of Santander, around Lincoln War Memorial NOT USED
Lack of -Visual Accessibility, Diverse use, Sitting space
• Are there choices of things to do? Food, Shop, Sit
• Is there a management presence, or can you identify anyone is in charge of the space? No

Questions to consider on sociability:

• Is this a place where you would choose to meet your friends? Are others meeting friends here or running into them?
High Street Benches, Tree Cornhill, Behind Santander
• Are people in groups? Are they talking with one another? Students, Family, Friends
• Do people seem to know each other by face or by name? No
• Do people bring their friends and relatives to see the place or do they point to one of its features with pride?
High Street, Cornhill & War memorial
• Are people smiling? Do people make eye contact with each other? Yes- Human eye level
• Do people use the place regularly and by choice?
Both, Regular to access university, work. By choice-Shop & eat
• Does a mix of ages and ethnic groups that generally reflect the community at large? Yes
• Do people tend to pick up litter when they see it? No

https://www.archdaily.com/914616/what-makes-a-great-public-place

ALPHA - OCTOBER 2023 xxiii