Through Interstices — Jessica Jie Zhou

THROUGH INTERSTICES

Intended to be a shared “third place” for organizations, this youth center explores the potential of interstitial spaces especially in terms of how they encourage spontaneous collaboration.

Urban Adaptation in Brooklyn, NY

Urbanism Core IV Studio, Spring 2021
Instructor: Aniket Shahane

Featured in Retrospecta 44

The concept model articulates one questions that this project is trying to answer:
what would be a generative way of organizing the in-between space?
Both on a macro and micro scale, the Dixwell intersection forms its own liminal microcosm.

How can the “liminal” be stretched, compressed, elongated, and celebrated?

The building is set back from Orchard Street in the west, giving it an open front and a welcoming gesture, echoing with the residential nature of the neighborhood. Cross-circulation is also preserved for this unique lot that’s at the intersection of three major streets.

The massing then shifts to make way for the “double functions”, including the two performance spaces and art classrooms, offering more possibilities for the process of meandering from one to the other.

The double skin structure of the project highlights its light qualities and the undulating roof plates, encouraging it to become a beacon for the neighborhood.

︎︎︎ Ground level extends towards spaces with different levels of openness upon entering

︎︎︎ Dynamic roofscape and apertures introduces fun and vibrancy into the childcare area

︎︎︎ Niche spaces functions as buffer zone between individual studios and collaboration areas,
allowing activities with different intimacy levels to happen at the same time

︎︎︎ Central community staircase provides space for public event, local classes, and personal connection

︎︎︎ Third floor performance space embraces natural light for small-scale activities

︎︎︎ Daylighting Study Models; softening Southern light into Northern skylight