PERformance + FORUM = PERFORUM

The building uses may be related but they still have a collection of varying spatial requirements. Instead of trying to press all of these varying spaces with differing needs into one singular form, the design allows each spatial component to take on its own form. This permits each programmatic element to work independently and efficiently.

The varying spaces are not compromised functionally in order to fit into a certain form. With this independence comes a need for cohesion. A grand forum was formed to elegantly resolve this issue. It not only provides formal coherence, but it also provides social cohesion. It creates a space to hang out, bump into people, or a moment to sit and watch people.

The walls of the grand forum are more than merely edges of a mixing chamber. They provide literal windows into the activity of each program – vignettes into the life of the building.

For each program there is an opportunity to retreat to the comfort of their own space, while the grand forum allows users to mix with each other like in a public space with the comfort of being climatized. Another outcome of this formal decision is the series of external spaces created, adjacent to the grand forum and between the programmatic boxes.

These smaller, more intimate spaces allow users many opportunities to step outside, whether to catch some sun on a terrace, look upon some flowers, or perhaps just to have a smoke.