Small buildings have always had a particular appeal. Micro works of architecture inspire an enduring charm that exceeds their function, even if that function is to be a pleasing decoration in the landscape. There are a variety of reasons for our infatuation with little forms. The miniaturization of architecture reduces it to a human scale with which we can interact more readily. We are also drawn by the intricacy of their conception and detail by the fact that smaller buildings usually possess a more tactile quality than constructions of a larger scale. The concise purpose of these structures; that they address a single function, simple use, or even a purely aesthetic aim, makes them intellectually as well as physically accessible.
This Spring the studio is devoted to the execution of one project- researching and designing a commercial kitchen on John’s Island at the site of Sweetgrass Garden, as well as fabricating, and installing a structure on the site to house the kitchen.
The process will include, but is not limited to:
Working with local farmers, bakers and chefs on the kitchen master plan.
Working with DHEC, the FDA, and the Charleston County’s Building Inspection Services on creating a prototype model kitchen which can be implemented across the state of South Carolina.
Working with local architects and engineers on creating a full set of construction documents for the commercial kitchen.
Fabricating the commercial kitchen structure parts off site at the CAC.C’s materials lab and finishing installation on site by 4.18.14.
David, nice overview of this semester’s project. Now that I’ve found this blog, I’ll be following your team’s progress regularly. Actually, I’ll see if I can get some of my colleagues at Corning Incorporated (Corning, NY) to follow along as well. An updated high-level, project status as a supplement to this initial overview would be much appreciated from time-to-time. GOOD LUCK! Greg Overstrom PE, PMP – Project Manager, Science & Technology, Corning Incorproated