Next Project

Reimagining Port Talbot: A sustainable coastal future

Part 2 Project 2025
Keerthana Nagalaxmi Muralidhar
 University of Hertfordshire | UK
Reimagining Port Talbot: A Sustainable Coastal Future explores the transformation of a major steel production site in South Wales into a marine conservation-led coastal masterplan. Located at the edge of a heavily industrialised landscape, the project responds to ecological degradation, rising sea levels, and the urgent need for post-carbon futures in coastal cities.

The proposal's focal point is a Marine Conservation Centre, a hybrid structure that adapts to the region's harsh tides by floating and submerging. Repurposed elements from the Tata Steel site were employed in its design, which incorporates educational facilities, public engagement areas, and marine rehabilitation labs. Technical issues like water filtration systems, buoyant construction, and passive design appropriate for its changing environment are also addressed in the building.

Through the adaptive reuse of industrial structures, the development of community-led green areas, and the incorporation of arboretum planting for soil remediation, the broader masterplan embraces a circular economy approach. The project rethinks how architecture might support social inclusion and ecological recovery by presenting marine conservation as a catalyst for regeneration.

This work offers a forward-thinking architectural response based on local context and global challenges, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable design, material reuse, and coastal resilience.

Tutor(s)
Monica Cherry
Simon Knight
2025
Image 01 – External Visualisation of the Marine Conservation Centre A render illustrating the floating and amphibious architecture of the Marine Conservation Centre in Port Talbot. This image also serves as the title page, representing the project’s conce
Image 02 – Site Analysis and Concept Development A compilation of site research, contextual studies, and early conceptual exploration. This image sets the foundation for the design narrative by analysing the post-industrial coastline and introducing the c
Image 03 – Masterplan with Context and Urban Strategy A detailed masterplan illustrating the integration of the Marine Conservation Centre within the wider urban regeneration of Port Talbot. The drawing highlights ecological zones, adaptive reuse of indus
Image 04 – Social Sustainability Layers and Quality of Life A diagrammatic breakdown of the proposed social sustainability strategies, including inclusive public access, educational integration, and wellbeing-driven spatial design. This image visualises h
Image 05 – Ground Floor, Lower-Level Plan and Axonometric Floor Layouts Architectural drawings presenting the ground and lower-level plans alongside axonometric views of all floors. These illustrate the spatial organisation of key programs including aquar
Image 06 – Roof Plan and Key Spatial Connections The roof plan highlights functional and environmental layers including green roof systems, solar integration, observation decks, and circulation flows. This drawing emphasises the connection between built f
Image 07 – South and West Elevations Detailed elevation drawings showing the building’s interaction with the tidal edge, material articulation using recycled concrete and steel, and the layering of public, research, and rehabilitation zones across its flo
Image 08 – Longitudinal and Cross Sections Sectional drawings that reveal the internal spatial hierarchy, interaction with tidal levels, and the integration of passive design strategies. These cuts illustrate how public, research, and rehabilitation progr
Image 09 – Technical Section through Façade and Roof A detailed construction section illustrating the build-up of the façade and roof systems, including bio-receptive concrete panels, passive ventilation, insulation layers, and green roof infrastructure d
Image 10 – External Visualisation of the Marine Conservation Centre A perspective render showcasing the centre’s floating form anchored along Port Talbot’s tidal edge. The image captures the architectural language, public accessibility, and the project's
• Page Hits: 158         • Entry Date: 02 September 2025         • Last Update: 02 September 2025