Spaces of Making as Spaces of Learning

This thesis proposes a City Central Shed. A shed is a familiar term for how many makers began. A little space at the back of a house with an interest in the material world and engaging it by any means we have. The proposal is a workshop on a civic scale, situated in Auckland in proximity to Auckland’s other civic spaces, Auckland Art Gallery, Auckland Central City Library and Aotea Square. Just as how libraries exist for the development and promotion of learning primarily through a literary medium, this building exists for people to learn through a material medium. This thesis examines the overlaps of different production spaces in society, and seeks to address the apparent lack in this niche. The proposed building is tested largely through models. In learning during the process, it testifies the symbiotic relationship of the two. There is unique value in learning through making for individuals and communities that can be realised through architecture.