I began to consider what elements of the urban workplace would I like to see within the suburban "isolated box" environment. The urban office environment and cityscape surrounding areas of business provide a sense of community and unity that is not achieved in the suburban environment. There are more opportunities for social and human interaction. Shared experiences such as riding mass transportation provide a togetherness that is not achieved sitting alone in traffic.
I would like to explore how and if architecture can provide these same expereinces within the existing suburban office environment.
I'm thinking on extremes here, but maybe you should look at a place such as a prison or a rehab facility, and see how they deal architecturally (and psychologically) with unity and community within those spaces. Both are places that people don't usually want to be, but the whole idea of unity is big. Also, they have spaces within their buildings (sometimes gardens, sometimes concrete floors) where they can get a change of environment. I don't know, maybe it won't go anywhere, but it could help you look at other spaces to get more ideas on your specific site.
ReplyDeleteNelli has a good idea. Also, lets look at some other ideas. What is it about the homeplace that is drawing you to that sense of community? Could it be just knowing you can relax there? That there is a bed? shower? TV? food close by? better smells? better views?
ReplyDeleteDave also posted some new work this weekend to his voicethread - everyone please take a look there....
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