The Architect’s vision behind the design was to create a building that rises out of the Bay engaging passers-by with an over-sailing roof that creates a place for people to gather and meet
The design of Senedd originates from sculpting the ground plane; the bay, to form the working spaces and sculpting the roof plane; the sky, to create the public space. The material enclosure between the two is as transparent as possible.
At the heart of the design is the wish to produce a building that symbolises an open democracy. It has also been designed to make a significant contribution to sustainable development.
As part of the original design brief, the architect aimed to:
- Generate a sense of open government and public accessibility
- Provide a Quality Working Environment, a ‘fit for purpose’ building without being lavish.
- Provide good access for people with disabilities
- Respond Effectively to Change Over Time
- Exploit Information Technology
- Represent Value for Money, not just in the initial capital spend but in the ongoing “whole life” costs
- Be a Good Neighbour by benefiting the local community and respecting and enhancing the existing environment in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act.
The following principles were adopted when designing the building:
- The design makes good use of the physical advantages of the waterside frontage.
- The nature of the exceptional site drives the building form.
- The juxtaposition of neighbouring buildings with great views across the Bay contrasts containment and openness. These forces are typical of the greatest urban spaces.
- The juxtaposition of roof and plinth orients the building outwards to the Bay, symbolising its role, as a national building that will give identity to Wales.