Abstract:
The main objective of this research is to develop an underground space framework which establishes
design solutions to underpin the successful design of underground buildings. The poorly conceived nature
of contemporary underground space often means it has little, or no contribution to its above-ground
environment, as it neglects the significant relationship between the ground plane, and above and belowground
space. As a result of this omission towards its above-ground environment, urban design theory
and practice have neglected the subject of underground space, where it is presented typically as ancillary
spaces, of a highly fragmented nature.
This problem is addressed through a literature review, establishing the treatment of underground space
within urban design literature, a taxonomy analysis of the physical form of 90 contemporary underground
buildings, and a discussion of the five archetypes of underground space. Developed from the findings of
each of these research sections, an underground space framework is established. The framework is divided
into six guideline categories with which each focusing on a major design issue relevant to underground
space. The presentation of each guideline briefly states the issue, its objective, and then suggests various
solutions for implementing the specific objective. The guidelines are intended to be flexible, where they
are selected, developed and applied with regard to the underground buildings unique site and programme
characteristics.
The design case study, an extension of Wellingtons Museum of City and Sea located at Post Office Square,
demonstrates how these guidelines can be used, through selecting, developing and then applying, suitable
guidelines in response to its specific site and programme requirements.
In total, the research suggests that the underground space framework can underpin the successful design
of underground space through establishing strong physical connections between below ground and above
ground public space. This can be achieved through blurring the boundaries between above and below
-ground space, revealing historical underground elements above ground, and considering the underground
as a viable option to resolving specific urban design issues present above ground.
