Achraf Benhabbaz
student
University of Montreal
Canada
Interior Design
La Houle embodies a groundbreaking vision for a new library in the neighborhood. Departing from conventional paradigms, this endeavor aims to redefine and… more
Ho-gyeum Kim
advisor
Columbia University, Columbia Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation
Republic of Korea
Seasoned architect with expertises in multiple uses, including Mixed-use highries, hospitality,… more
The strength of the ‘La Houle’ project lies in its consistent use of caustics as a formal language, evident in its elevation, structure, and plan layout, a fitting choice considering its proximity to water and the transformative potential of caustic geometry. The integration of robotic 3D printing technology further enhances the project's technical feasibility, enabling the realization of complex forms suggested by the design. Additionally, the project successfully acknowledges and embraces the pier as an extension of the plaza and landscape, with exoskeletal spheres forming a striking visual element along the site.
However, while the project maintains a cohesive formal language, there are differences among its building elements. The elevation reflects the caustic geometry of the water, the structure employs a delaunay mesh geometry, and the planar layout including the agora, courtyard, and the furniture features a platonic circle. Aligning the geometries of each architectural element to express transitional or gradient states could reconcile the disparities among elevation, structure, and planar distribution to a more cohesive entity, reinforcing the project's ethos of redefining and rejuvenating the essence of a library to meet the evolving needs of the community.
The vertical distribution of the program according to levels of engagement and contemplation is commendable. To enhance this further, opening sizes could vary to reflect the desired level of tranquility, breaking the uniformity of the caustic geometry mapped around the walls. Similarly, the loosening and tightening of the delaunay mesh grids in the ceiling structure to reflect stress within the structural members would add depth to the design. The agora circle and the exoskeletal sphere at the plaza could merge at a point to form a blob, creating a functional canopy at the entrance while reaching out to the landscape elements to the exterior. Such a gesture could expand to the spheres on the pier to form a bridge over the road disconnecting the library site and the pier.
In summary, ‘La Houle’ makes a bold formal statement as an avant-garde dynamic hub tailored to the evolving needs of the community. Refinements in applying transformative geometries will be key to strengthening the project's overall impact and success.
Dear Judge Ho-gyeum Kim,
I am deeply grateful to you for dedicating your time and expertise to review my competition project. Your commitment to providing feedback, even outside of your academic obligations and without compensation, is truly commendable.
I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for your thoughtful evaluation and constructive criticism. Your insights will undoubtedly contribute to my growth and development as a designer.
By publicly thanking you and sharing your feedback, I hope to not only express my gratitude but also inspire others to participate in our international project. Your contributions are invaluable, and I am honored to be a part of the INSPIRELI FAMILY.
Warm regards,
Benhabbaz Achraf