Intersection

Objective: Explore the relationship of parts and the interstitial space created in their meeting

When building an intersection in Valerio Olgiati’s National Park Museum using one full sheet of foam core without making any cuts, I focused on three blocks and the dynamic relationship between these spaces. I was interested in the differences between the components with one solid, one dramatic and the other as a void.

In keeping with this tripartite system, I began to question the ways that these three parts intersect and unite. The three distinct spaces in this building, a community center in Downtown Berkeley, have different spatial qualities and uses, but together, they form a complex fluidity of space. The stairs in the center not only physically unify the blocks on either side, but their angles inform all other design decisions, such as the windows.

The blocks are also unified through program. I grouped all social and public spaces together to form one fluid space connected by the stairs. Private spaces such as the children’s center, storage and bathrooms are inaccessible though the central stair system. The gallery, library, computer space, information desk and cafe all flow together -- up and down the bleacher stairs and large openings. The stairs then become programmatic as people and usage spill out onto them.