CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT:

The following pages are some mind mapping/thought process exercises to build upon the original idea of creating a mobile architectural entity to complement/enhance the light rail system. I ended up with the concept of creating some kind of 'travelling restaurant' that will run in conjunction with the light rail. My thoughts are that this 'mobile restaurant' could be possibly run over two light rail lines- (both direction tracks) and be created to connect the Russell station and the museum station around the river. This would be a separate line to the light rail network to allow the carriage/s to run at a slower pace than the normal light rail and be semi-enclosed to act almost as a miniature rail- an additional cultural attraction that could complete the concept of the light rail. This restaurant carriage/s could potentially be designed both inside and out to show off Australian culture in a unique way. It could be used for people on holidays after they have taken a look around Canberra on the light rail- they could jump off at the museum station and jump on the restaurant rail for a feed while enjoying the views of Canberra. It could also be used by politicians, especially from international locations, as it is an easy and central way to have a meal while taking in the views of the city. The carriage/s will be built to be big enough for a pleasant space (over two tracks) and possibly retractable to one train line to be easily transported to other locations in Canberra through the light rail. It could be transported to attend to different functions/ events at the time. For example, if a special function was happening at Parliament Hill the restaurant could be transported to be used in that area for a week. This concept could also have the potential for an added function- art gallery, market area, entertainment/music event. Some kind of cultural function would enhance the travelling restaurant and allow it to be an attraction in itself that Canberra could be renowned for.