UNSTABLE ARCHITECTURES

This studio began with care studies of existing pavilion spaces, then developed into the conception of our own pavilion designs. We undertook several explorations of surface, colour and proportion through the conceptual framework of memory, exclusion and desire to develop 3 initial designs. Three sites around UTS were allowed for these exercises (Systrum Street laneway, UTS rooftop & Mortuary Station) and the brief prescribed a smaller scale and demountable style of pavilion, an insertion into the space that could  either reinforce or juxtapose the existing conditions of each site.

Using the three initial pavilion designs as a platform from which to launch a third and final pavilion, the design was refined by choosing the strongest physical and theoretical moments from the initial designs to inform the structure. The final pavilion holds strong ties to the initial ‘Pavilion of Memory’ design, a tall symmetrical tower rising up from the lane way space. The final pavilion, titled “The Pavilion of Consciousness” is designed based on the question, “Is it more difficult to remember or to forget?”. Two strong towers are welded together by a third void space erupt from the ground plane of the lane way, drawing in the pedestrian and forcing the choice of one of two paths upward.

This strong vertical stair space is interrupted by three doorways, each housing a different symbolic spatial visualisation of either trying to remember or trying to forget. This is executed through juxtaposition of colour and surface, playing on contrasting materiality to symbolise the concept of trying to remember or trying to forget.

Characterised by either matte translucent glass or highly reflective chrome and a light or dark colour palette respectively. These spaces are highly symbolic, either lessening the user’s presence or heightening it depending on where the user is in the space.