LACMA EXHIBITION PAVILION

source: archinect

This exhibition pavilion is a proposal in addition to the existing Los Angeles County Museum of Art buildings. Here the geometrical simplicity of the box is altered to inspire and capture pedestrians and drivers as they approach the site on Wilshire Boulevard. From this side of the building, its exterior envelope is pulled in forming a cavity that goes deep into the structure, and then; it is stretched back out connecting to the street. The deep void formed by the cavity allows natural light to reach all levels of the museum. It also provides visual connections across levels. This creates a feeling of openness, and it allows for a better appreciation of the art work being exhibited there. The surface stretching out into the street creates a covered public plaza underneath it. The building connects to the city with aggressive and bold moves. The architecture explores ideas in design derived by the geometrical study of “surface to volume” inspired by lectures on “thick skins and deep cavities” by architect Tom Wiscombe. The building houses exhibition areas, storage spaces and a theater.