[re]establishing forgotten sites
EXPLORING THE BAR
I propose to convert the Ballroom into a modern bar / restaurant. I decided on this program due to the location, history and existing structure (which will remain due to the heritage restrictions).
How can we connect the existing features of the site to the design of the modern program?
In attempt to connect the site to the bar, I turned to collage to explore potential materiality. Initially, I looked at bringing the parquetry flooring up the sides of the bar.
Should the modern additions reinterpret or highlight the existing?
Considering my research into authenticity, reproduction and imitation, I thought that this method would be unsuccessful.
How can I create a similar effect in a more modern interpretation?
How do reflective materials interact with body and site?
Mirrors and reflection are often associated with vanity, and mirror selfies have become a popular trend. In today's society there's a mantra of "if you didn't instagram it, did it even happen?"
Found that in focussing on this reflection of site I was able to notice more details on how the waves came and went, and how the foam would build.
Beginning to look at how the site might begin to reflect upon itself, I created these images alike to a kaleidoscope. This was done in photoshop by cutting out triangles of the Ballroom and then mirroring them. In this process, I find that this number of mirroring, although beautiful, begins to distort the site, making their features unidentifiable. On the other hand, it highlights the ornamental detail within the site, to the extent where even the peeling paint becomes a decorative feature.
How can the focus be on the site and not the occupants?
How does the angle of the mirror begin to impact how we view the site in the reflection?
Although the 90 degree mirror allows for the illusion of continuation of site, it would also directly reflect the person that would be adjacent to it. I began to get more interested in my last image, and how the timber looks as if it is leaning back, although the mirror is leaning forward.
Elevation illustration of how the bar (angled at 110 degrees) may begin to look within the Ballroom
Perspective collage of how the bar may begin to look within the Ballroom