Point of Departure

This semester we investigated circulation, connection, and networks through the making of our own custom-made devices called marble runs. The more interesting runs involve interesting stops and starts, rotational movement (not so unlike stairs) and the use of collection chambers to allow for multiple “occupants” to gather together before moving on. As the studio develops, we considered ways that volumes might build up around the circulatory systems, with the circulation systems informing not only spatial sequence, but a tectonic and formal language.
Then we looked closely at LAX, taking into account the numerous ongoing upgrades that are currently in the works. We designed a network of buildings, with the ambition of creating a catalyst for a more vibrant and pedestrian based form of urbanization for the airport. The idea is to use circulation and connectivity as a foregrounded element in the work.