Pier

arch 101 (studio 1a)

A series of collages began the design process of the pier. Using my own photography, I used multiple textures, shades of black, and hues of color to explore the concept of pheonominal transparency. Relief models were then created based on the collages, to extract the implication of shade, shadow, hue, and their correlation with depth. The relief model then informed the choreography of the pier and the circulation throughout the structure. Incorporating the intervention of the frame allowed for the control of view shed and sound throughout the paths of circulation.

As the user enters the pier, there is a wide open space that contrasts the compact space of the city and allows the sounds of the city to echo within the space. The viewer cannot yet see the river and the end of the pier creating an anticipation within the user. The framing and the tunnel on the lower level toward the center of the pier creates spaces that mimic the compactness of the city and create an hourglass effect. The sounds of the city then disappear and the user is in a quiet, tight space. Even though the user is in a compacted space, they can see the river which further enhances the anticipation to get to the end. As soon as the user enters the end of the pier, they are thrust into another wide open space to view and experience the river either on the top level, or on the bottom level.