EXERCISES

The following four exercises were completed as attempts to understand how architecture can draw attention to place.

The exercises began with the same 20’ x 20’ x 20’ box placed in four very different locations. Minimal manipulations in the form were allowed. Two apertures that provided a relation to the place had to be added to each one.

At the end of these exercises it became evident that architecture requires a response to more than its immediate surroundings to heighten ones consciousness of place.

Focus

From the shore of Portugal with its crashing waves and the salty ocean winds, through the rock-lined path and steps, to the entrance of the Boa Nova Tea House. Passing through the humble door I am confronted with the terminus of the sky and ocean; encapsulated in a single thin, wide aperture. The sky and ocean; both seemingly endless and existing hundreds of miles apart, magically meet within this frame.

Connection

Am I alone? Floating in the middle of nowhere, with the swaying ocean to my side and the sky above. The sun rises and sets marking the transition of one day to the next. The stars stare back at night telling tales of great gods and beasts and men who used them to guide there way. Time, history, direction; they keep me company.

Construct

Looking through the tall, narrow window onto Central Park and the skyscrapers down 5th avenue, I see the great feats of man. How small I feel, amongst such incredible things, until I look down. Below I see what makes New York City so wonderful, its people. I watch from above as they go about their day, constantly moving, never stopping.

Form

A box, pitched roof and two windows create a home. This symbol, which is associated with the idea of a house and home, is easily recognized and understood. Looking out my two windows in my home there is a row of houses, all the same. Such a strange thing that all the houses look the same though the homes couldn’t be more different.