LIMBS TO FINS
DUNDEE, SCOTLAND
GPS:  56°27'13.9"N 2°58'33.7"W   Typology:  Masterplan
Year: 2023
Type: Academic
Tutors: Richard Dundas

Dundee has all the precursors to a successful waterfront: a gorgeous view to the water, a historic silhouette to Perth Road, and a rich history in the jute, fishing, and whaling industries. However, it has become more and more disconnected from the rest of the city due to commercialization.

The evolution of the whale species was characterized by the transformation from a land to sea creature. How can we do the same for the people of Dundee? How can we turn limbs to fins and bring the city to the water?
Density is at the forefront of the answer, making the waterfront not just a destination, but also a community of demographics in a social blender. The horizontal barriers along the esplanade will be broken down, with the landscape swallowing the water, mitigating disastrous flooding consequences. Dundee’s industrial past is reflected in the architecture, taking precedent from the tenements nearby. Limbs to Fins will succeed in breaking down the vertical and horizontal barrier as well as animating Dundee’s front page.






The evolution of the whale provides a comparative metaphor for the citizens of Dundee. Just like the whale, we must evolve the city towards the water.










Nodes
Cycle circulation
Pedestrian circulation
Vehicle circulation


Masterplan






A consistent visual connection is met with courtyard tenements opening up to the River Tay. The geometry and materiality of the tenements is a nod to Dundee’s history as an industrial port city.










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Dylan Baliski Architecture (DBA) is a portfolio focusing on academic, competition, and built works from around the world.