juxtaposition

Rome is a city in constant need of reparation and rejuvenation. Simple, modular structures are commonly erected around ancient architectural masterworks. These two structures, fiercely juxtaposed one another and create a unique architectural character within Rome’s urban fabric.

THEATRICALITY

The history of film, and its “Larger than life“ theatrical style were derived from a dependence on viewership. Consequently, movie posters and theatrical titles are magnificent and engaging in their imagery and imagination. Following these precedents, the size, position, and hierarchy of the theater are all specifically created to capture the eye and engage the mind. Its clean, simple cladding obfuscates the theaters function, demanding further exploration and investigation.

WEAVING STORY & HISTORY

The Cinematic History Museum comprises the Northern and Eastern arms of the building, which sit below street level. The eastern promenade captures and frames the contemporary within the historic context of the site. Heavy masonry walls push the earth beneath them up to street level and give the building weight and permanence, mirroring the unwavering solemnity of the ruins that they frame. This upheaval works to connect past and present. Views from the museum read like a storyboard, with establishing shots and framed views of the ruins and the western arm of the building suspended above.

The system which spans the western and northern faces of the building mirrors the scaffolding systems that are erected all over Rome. The facade is constructed using modular steel members and is attached superficially to the larger veirendeel system sitting above the ruins. At the ends of each horizontal arm of the scaffolding is a small actuator attached to a thin arm holding a flexible LCD screen in place. Using simple algorithms, computers can control multiple actuators together to create a dynamic and flexible facade.

The western arm of the building spans the ruins, anchored at its northern and southern ends. The Structure itself spans the last remnants of the ancient Theatre of Pompeii, mirroring the rich history of cinema in Rome. The long span system evokes the notions of impermanence and transience that are associated with Rome. It rests gently on top of the ancient relics without engaging them, helping to preserve them.

Temporary scaffolding structures can be spotted throughout the architectural landscape of Rome. Whether it be used to repair or support and conceal, it is constructed in such a way to simplify assembly and disassembly. The screening system spanning the western and northern facades are of modular steel members that are adhered to the veirendeel structure of the building. The computer operated LCD panels open and flex. Throughout the day, light trickle through the undulating screen into interior spaces.. When the sun sets, the panels radiate imagery, illuminating and activating the pedestrian promenade.

western promenade

The Western promenade sets the scene within a bustling metropolis where stores line the streets and pedestrians move deliberately through the space. The façade is vibrant fluid and dynamic, reflecting the activity taking place below it.

Eastern Promenade

The Eastern promenade captures and frames the contemporary within the historic context of the site. Heavy masonry walls push the earth beneath them up to street level connecting the environments of urban and nature.