FLOOR ONE
By encouraging Oppenheimer’s same sense of curiosity and interaction with art, Switch Galleries - located in the “Rust Belt” city of Troy, NY - gives guests a unique gallery experience, unveiling the shear possibilities of architecture through Oppenheimer’s artworks, possibilities not only of the building and its spaces, but also of its microtechnologies, such as rotating glass panels and walls, or architectural elements such as doors, screens, ramps, or columns.
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40 INCHES
SCALE: N.T.S.
7 Principles of Universal Design
30 INCHES
Reception Desk ADA Compliance
Equitable Use: The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities. Flexibility in Use: The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. Simple + Intuitive Use: The design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, etc. Perceptible Information: The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user. Tolerance for Error: The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions. Low Physical Effort: The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue. Size + Space for Approach and Use: Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user’s body size, posture, or mobility.
FLOOR TWO
By creating a dialog between the building and the art, and again between the art and museumgoers, Switch facilitates a conversation regarding the ability of architecture to encourage movement and creates a free flow of energy and feedback between the space and its users. Guests are encouraged to “play” with the art, analyze its connections, and become part of the installation, an aspect that often characterizes Oppenheimer’s work.
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Herman Miller “Goetz” Sofa
Skandiform “Conica F-205” Lounge Chair
West Elm Overarching Floor Lamp
Maharam “Agency” in Citrus
Traditional
Lunch + Learn
Utilizing a “charged” palette of electric yellows and blues, contrasted with black, white, and grey, the palette responds to this energy and intervention encouraged by the idea of a “switch.”
Performance
FLOOR THREE
Moving to the couple’s apartment on the third level, the space becomes much more intimate and inviting. Bridging the comforts of home and the aesthetic of an upscale New York City loft, the apartment seamlessly incorporates aspects of the lively gallery spaces. Utilizing the same materials, color scheme, and repetition of architectural elements, namingly the “canopy” feature (represented here by a black wall and ceiling wrapped in warm wood and echoed in both the first & second floors), the space brings familiarity, while also offering a certain level of flexibility.
Inspired by the minimal and transformative nature of Oppenheimer’s pieces, the furniture throughout the gallery and apartment reflects mid-century modern style and custom millwork in the apartment can be converted to support different tasks, all while complying with universal design standards. This adaptable coffee table from Duffy London quickly transforms from living to dining in a matter of seconds.
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The kitchen features custom bamboo cabinetry and LG EnergyStar-certified appliances, while also meeting the needs of universal design, including clear-knee access under the sink and cooktop, a low-mounted oven and microwave for side wheelchair approach, and additional accessible worksurfaces hidden in the cabinetry.