People will perceive architecture in many different ways, yet I firmly believe that there are key elements of design that can enhance human experience and facilitate the road towards human happiness and well-being. It’s through small changes that we can start making the world a happier place, and architecture is definitely a tool that can be used to do so.
This thesis intends to explore how architecture can affect people’s happiness. It seeks to design spaces that cause people to slow down and detach themselves from the roadrunner culture we live in. These spaces are created by renovating two existing public spaces in New York, and using air rights to create a new archetype which will be used as a transition space or destination. The architectural strategy is to elevate people off the ground and start creating “above” and “below” conditions. By creating multiple paths, the user’s experience becomes varied and unique based on the chosen path. With little pockets and surprises, the paths create an experiential phenomena that will transform user’s daily routines. Furthermore, the site becomes a work of public art, not only relevant to people in it, but to people from a distance.
UNDER THE POD
THE MEZZANINE:
In between the ground level and the fourth level a “mezzanine” hangs from the structure. This strategy was used to give people a closer view to the ground level and the traffic without being in it; like creating an oasis in the middle of the dessert. It is filled with tables and areas for people to sit. At each end the floors start being manipulated giving people the freedom to lay down or sit at their own comfort. An unexpected surprise is that the art panels can be seen from below creating an enticing ceiling above them.
In between the ground level and the fourth level a “mezzanine” hangs from the structure. This strategy was used to give people a closer view to the ground level and the traffic without being in it; like creating an oasis in the middle of the dessert. It is filled with tables and areas for people to sit. At each end the floors start being manipulated giving people the freedom to lay down or sit at their own comfort. An unexpected surprise is that the art panels can be seen from below creating an enticing ceiling above them.
THE PATH:
The first path is an assemblage of exchangeable panels where artists can portray their artwork. These will be constantly changing, creating a different experience. They are meant to be “plugged” and even though usually translucent, artists can use solid materials to create different patterns. All of these panels light up at night giving the intervention an opportunity of another different experience.
The first path is an assemblage of exchangeable panels where artists can portray their artwork. These will be constantly changing, creating a different experience. They are meant to be “plugged” and even though usually translucent, artists can use solid materials to create different patterns. All of these panels light up at night giving the intervention an opportunity of another different experience.
Herald Square Light Up Model
Manhattan, New York City, NY
This light up model is made out of plexiglass, ledlights enclosed in spraypainted wooden box. File made in autocad and etched in a laser cutter.
CLOSE UP
Herald Square Light Up Model
Manhattan, New York City, NY
This light up model is made out of plexiglass, ledlights enclosed in spraypainted wooden box. File made in autocad and etched in a laser cutter.
Herald Square Light Up Model
Manhattan, New York City, NY
This light up model is made out of plexiglass, ledlights enclosed in spraypainted wooden box. File made in autocad and etched in a laser cutter.
Final Presentation for the Thesis
