A Reverse Kaleidoscope
Eleni Papantoniou
At the beginning of the semester we were allocated a block/plot in the historical centre of Glasgow. We were asked to propose an interior intervention in a specific location within the confines of that block. In collaboration with PRADA, we were invited to explore the faux fur leftovers from the brand’s latest show installation and incorporate them in the intervention. The material should perform a role that we would direct/define. I was assigned block 16, a site exclusively occupied by a modern glass corporate building that is eight floors high.
As part of my analysis, I aimed to sense the atmosphere of the building and the emotions it evokes to me, while being drawn to verticality and reflection. I chose as my dedicated area of focus for my project the granite tower of my site building which rises in the middle of the south route, where the main entrance of the block is. This is the only part of the building without glass cladding and it rises vertically towards the sky.
Following my site analysis, I researched further about some key notions that triggered my interest and imagination. I realised a pattern in my thoughts, following the direction of phenomenology in spatial design, heterotopia, experiencing the infinite space and exploring our inner selves and bodies during a transition.
To watch the experiments please click here
During experimentation with the faux fur I was given, I decided to release the fibres from their backing fabric by cutting them off and mixing them together. This way I would be more flexible to define the density, colour and application. The idea of reflection that defines my building’s image strongly resonated with me, hence I attempted to produce playful reflections. The various colours and textures gave the arrangement a very impactful visual result. Finally, I chose two materials that would assist me with manipulating the fur towards a direction of my choice. I went for a transparent (epoxy resin) and an opaque (plaster) material to investigate further the behaviour of the fur. The results look like pieces of art, almost collectable. Placing the epoxy resin tile as a background, I used mirror hollow prisms in the shape of basic geometries (triangle, square, rectangle) to explore the tile with my eye against natural light. The result is an immersive experience, a detachment from reality, a game of colour and light.
Eventually, I came up with the idea of an elevator-kaleidoscope. The concept was inspired by the verticality of the building’s core. The intervention expands all along its height, creating a spectacle both for an elevator user and pedestrians passing by. The kaleidoscopic effect is achieved by introducing a transparent resin wall that incorporates faux fur fibres against the elevator’s fully mirrored hexagonal interior. I aimed to reverse the kaleidoscope by relying on the vertical motion of the elevator to create an immersive experience for anyone occupying its space. At the end of the intervention’s life, the wall tiles can be disassembled and distributed to any potential collectors in an attempt to underpin the importance of material circularity.
To watch the impressions from the interior follow the links below
