Eternal: Generations Preserved

Eternal: Generations Preserved

Ocello, Amanda

Clinton, NJ, USA

005-LF-S007

2014

The Catholic University of America

Student

In 2050, the Athenaeum will remain an intellectual treasure in Philadelphia, a meeting place to share knowledge and culture and to exhibit artistic treasures. It will be an archive for drawings, books, and paintings and a laboratory for the conservation of these rare treasures.
As digital technology replaces paper with information, drawing on paper and touching a real book will be treasured experiences. Papers, drawings and texts will become precious jewels. The Athenaeum will savor the feeling and connection between mind and body through tangible objects. It will be an architectural treasure that celebrates the treasures it houses.

The historic façade frames a courtyard. Beyond is a translucent tower that will glow at night, like a beacon of knowledge. Inside is a large lobby-exhibit – meeting space, a cube within a cube. Small jewel-like spaces hover above and reflect and refract the light. These jewels will offer intimate spaces to read, play, meet and hold treasured objects.
In the back are private support functions: extensive storage space for the collection, a conservation laboratory and offices, and the administrative office suite at the top overlooking the private courtyard. The meeting room is articulated as a jewel in the space.

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