Architecture and Daylight

from Studio Themes 2022–2023. Mk2

Stockholm Mania

Teachers: Fredrik Stenberg, Per Franson

Studio Theme Given the intimate correlation of light and architecture, their dependency and influence on human perception and experience, the studio focuses on a strong interdisciplinary approach of Light, Architecture, Art & Engineering. By orchestrating the visible and the invisible throughout the design process we will allow human centered and empathic spaces. These poetic dimensions as well as the tectonic properties of architecture are enhanced and conveyed by using light and darkness as materials. The aim is to create a synergy between Light & Architecture through an interdisciplinary platform. Architecture will be observed, analyzed, discussed and interpreted by means of a design based approach where light is the common thread. Modeling and experiencing light at different scales, from working models to immersive large scale models will be a fundamental part of this journey.

Teaching Methodology Theory and practice support each other in parallel by applying theoretical knowledge to experiments and projects. The method is to learn through observation, site analysis and practical testing; firsthand experience.

As daylight is diverse and varies, the Studio method is site specific in the Nordic context. Gained knowledge, methodology and practical exercises are transferable and contextualized to any desired geographical point. For the Spring term we will work on both sides of the Swedish costline. At the meeting of water and land we will create architecture and infrastructure to enhance the development for a sustainable use of the ocean.

We will work at Djurö outside Stockholm and on the Island of Skaftö in the municipality of Lysekil. In both location we will collaborate with Marine researchers, explore their methods and needs. There is also the connection to local environments and people as well as to turism and educational issues.

Project 3 Conducting research in real environments, testing new technologies and demonstrating prototypes is necessary for an effective innovation process. Today, there are few places in the Stockholm archipelago where KTH can conduct field-based research on the Baltic Sea and its coastal landscape in a simple and sustainable way. 40 minutes’ drive from Slussen, or an hour from KTH, we have access to an area at a fenced municipal water and sewerage facility. You can access the site by boat and quickly get out on Kanholmsfjärden and further out on the open sea. KTH has established a mobile workshop module and a smaller workboat with a heated cabin for year-round work. At the station, they are currently conducting field tests of underwater drones and hydrofoil technology for small boats.

Project 4 We develop the learnings from P3 and create an Architectural proposal for an extension to Kristineberg Marine Research Center on the Island Skaftö, Lysekilskommun. After lectures and tutorials with external experts in sustainable design, climate design, and structure, we will meet the researchers at Kristineberg and explore the island and its specific conditions. Through the project we will development an eco-tectonic focus around site specific design and architectural sustainability with the progressive program of an extension to the Marinecenter.

You will propose an extension where ideas and the production of a New Blue Food can take place. The extension or addition will provide work between research and hospitality. You will create a new architecture where researchers, scientists, investors, chefs, food entrepreneurs can meet and create what is produced and harvest right outside.

Fredrik Stenberg FS is an architect based in Stockholm. He has worked as a lecturer at KTH since 2016. He is one of the founding members in the collective Uglycute and participated in the Art and Architecture Biennale (2003 and 2010) in Venice, and are represented in the collections of Moderna museet. Per Franson Architect, educator with over 20 years of experience of having his own architectural practice.