The project’s concept derives from the rich history of Atlanta. The driving of the initial stake marking for the railroad line’s Terminus, its representation for the original settlement and the ripple effect it had on the city’s eventual development, are the pillars that shaped our proposal for the Pavilion. Elements of fluidity represented in the transportation system together with Adair Park’s relation to the Arts and the need to reflect on our own contextual references, may them be historic, built, environmental, or others, were also fundamental in the development of what we see as an iconic landmark capable of strengthening the bond between this historic neighborhood, the Atlanta Beltline and the City of Atlanta.
Reflection, as a symbol for multiplicity, was conceptually used.
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The point, the circle and a series of pedestrian pathways flow around a circular retention pond where the pavilion is located and connect the park to the Westside Trails across the train railways. More than a complying functional structure, the Pavilion tries to project itself as an artistic sculpture or architectural element in the space striving for simplicity, versatility, structural defiance and technological advancement. It is a free-standing structure basically composed of only two planes, one fixed and a rotating one. The rotating plane allows for a versatile Pavilion as it can adjust to best attend different venues to be hosted, may that be small dance performances, music ensembles, spoken word productions, or public gatherings in the community. The plane may also stay in a vertical position not allowing for the structure to be used as an illegal shelter or used as a hanging element for visitors. Structurally this is achieved by having one plane becoming a fixed column deeply grounded which supports a pivoting plane made of lightweight metal frame that can be mechanically operated. Both planes have been cladded in highly polished stainless steel panel surfaces to achieve a mirror effect that serves various purposes. It serves as an interactive element for performers in stage and spectators alike during events depending on the angle of the plane, while also becoming a reflective element of the surrounding natural and built environment in an effort to establish a constant contextual reference of place. The smooth polished finish will also provide for easy cleanup and maintenance as dirt won’t be able to adhere as easy due to the lack of porosity in the surface. It also allows for easy paint removal in case of vandalism.
The park has been design to allow maximum visibility and connectivity between destinations. The Pavilion along with its stage, centrally located at the edge of the retention pond, is easily seen from any point in the site or approaching transients. It has been provided of a naturally descending spectator’s lawn to allow for better visibility of the events and serve also as a recreational open area. Pedestrian pathways have been manipulated to achieve a continuous accessibility without the need for stairs.
The Pavilion, aspiring to captivate the public even when not in use, will serve as a catalyst to promote the arts and design throughout the community. It also continues the tradition of Adair Park for hosting art exhibitions as the Pavilion itself could be considered a permanent sculpture in the park, increasing a sense of identity and vitality for the neighborhood with an architectural piece with strong references to the history of the city, and reflecting the context in which it sits.
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