Overlay Madness
Date: 2023 May
Instructor: Brian Deluna
Team: Yuhang Tao
University of Pennsylvania
Physical Model: Aluminum zigzag joints and laminated tube glass envelope the exterior, creating contrast with the surrounding buildings. Behind the translucent glass tube, an array of LED panels continually shifts and responds to the vibrancy of the cityscape.
This project explores and redefines the traditional theatrical experience with a focus on building process, building technologies and most important, the material. In this case glass tubes and mass timber (CLT) as the primary material, also shaping the building envelop and design concept.
Situated on a prime location on Broadway in New York, the project seeks to exploring the relationship between the city and theater. Using the technique of layering and overlaying of translucent and transparent envelopes to create a unique visual effect that reflects the vibrancy of the urban context of New York. Moreover, I incorporate the light and liveliness of the city as an integral part of the “show.” The translucency of the glass material is designed to reflect and evolve its appearance throughout the with the changing light and weather conditions, creating an ever-evolving spectacle.
Chunk Model: Axonometric view displaying the building within its context on Broadway Street, the current site of the Harry Potter Theater.
Elevation: Glass tubes of varying density and scale to create a diverse range of visual effects also the definition of the space. The areas with dense and small-scale glass tubes will have more distortion, creating a sense of privacy and exclusivity, while the areas with larger glass tubes and less density will provide more visual transparency and clarity which serve as a public space.