Metadata
Title
Athenaeum Inter[face]
Creator
Roehrle, Marc
Zell, Mo
Location
Milwaukee, WI, USA
Date Created
2014
Call Number
005-LF-P046
Firm
bauenstudio
Category
Professional
Project Assumption
Antiquated, cloistered spaces will be replaced by visually accessible systems. In 2050, the artifact, not its image, will remain relevant because of its authenticity. Its physicality is as important as its meaning. In an age of forgery, plagiarism, and the every accessible image (via mobile devices), private storage is replaced with public display – everything is put out for public consumption.
Project Statement
Our proposal relocates Athenaeum artifacts to the building’s facade thus shifting edge to center and engaging public space as part of the building.
Similar to Nolli’s registration of Rome’s public spaces we interject public space into the Athenaeum. This interface is facilitated through transparent, two-sided vitrines. Wrapping the first floor, through the second and third, culminating in an outdoor public space on the roof, the vitrines prominently display the Athenaeum collection to the public. Exposure to Athenaeum artifacts and private spaces democratizes this private collection, eliminating physical and cultural barriers to knowledge.
Registration Number
46194005