Metadata
Title
The Emergence of Cutting Edge Dissemination: Re-imagining the Athenaeum of Philadelphia
Creator
Albader, Ayshah
Location
Washington, DC, USA
Call Number
005-LF-S032
Date
2014
School
The Catholic University of America
Category
Student
Project Assumption
In 2050, I believe the Athenaeum to have progressed from an exclusive member’s only society, to a large community of traded knowledge. More people will be aware of its existence and the use of technology will be a major factor in doing so. Technology will also play a big part of the athenaeum both as a structure and as an organization. The building itself will be equipped with high end facilities that will be able to deliver information easily, thoroughly, and quickly; while, the organization will benefit from a direct connection to the people through social networks and online communication.
Project Statement
My concept for the Athenaeum in 2050, is a contemporary structure that doesn’t compromise its historic standing, and functions as a hub for easily accessed knowledge. I created slopes that emerge from the grade to form the massing. I decided to enlist a sense of uniform to design in the form of even heights and widths of the volumes, as to not overwhelm the neighborhood. The fluidity of the slopes and how they subtly mimic nature and organic formation address the historical aspect, while the order, sharp angles, grids, and geometry address the macro scale of Philadelphia as a city.
Registration Number
46189195