Architectonics / Spring 2021
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Lower East Side Community Center
Professor James Lowder

This project examines the rigidity of ribbon forms transformed to three dimensions, as well as topological organizations regulated by program and accessibility. Walls seem to become floors and then walls again, wrapping and distorting to separate and connect spaces. A surrounding glass envelope is then penetrated by timber members and circulation spines running vertically and horizontally. The effect is a single surface presenting spaces of intrigue and exploration, rationalized by circulatory and service systems. It simultaneously conforms and rebels, connects and disconnects, defines and un-defines space.
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Seemingly homogenous in its formal distribution, varying rigidities create unexpected but disciplined spaces in the Museum. Conceptually “soft” transparent rooms flow between rigid opaque rooms through rounded corners, and act as planimetric circulation. The use of glass material also allows light to penetrate in layers inside the building. Sketches and prototypes show the evolution of the museum into the Spatial Morph project.