DESA1002 'Continuous City' Camilla D'Arcy

Abstract

CAMILLA D’ARCY: 308 157 346 PROJECT SUMMARY: Studio Gallery, Isfahan. My design aims to challenge the traditional concept of an art gallery, subverting this to create a hybrid studio gallery where the process of art making is displayed before the finished works. In this way the process of art making becomes an art work in itself. My design consists of two very different spaces or floors contrasting in function and aesthetics. The ground floor is a studio; an open, transparent space where members of the public can witness the creation of art firsthand. The upper floor is the gallery space and is therefore very controlled. The cladding is robust, restricting the entry of light to three defined portholes. The gallery floor floats above the studio space, protruding out from the bottom floor and extending away from the ground floor building. The snake-like shape of the upper floor is very different to the typical shape of the ground floor this contrast in shape reflecting the difference in function of each space. The floors are connected however through the centralised courtyard and cladding systems. The subtle tones compliment each other and the courtyard acts as a link; people on the ground and first floor are able to see what is happening in each space from these alternate view points. The final design of the studio/ gallery is the product of much experimentation. My initial designs are very different to what is the final model however elements of these initial ideas are still present. One of the main constraints I faced was allowing enough light to enter the courtyard. Many different shapes for the first floor where developed in response to this lighting issue. Secondly I struggled to connect the two very different spaces in a successful manner. I solved this by raising the first floor and extending it out and away from the first floor. This simple move creates a dynamic connection between the spaces. I am very happy and proud of my final design and the work I have completed this semester. I have improved a lot and progressed from each task as is evident in my folio. Most importantly however my passion for architecture is still strong and I will strive to improve when I return in 2010 for second year.