Natural elements can wreak havoc on buildings. As architects and designers, we are always fighting water, solar heat gain, thermal bridging, and a number of different climatic or environmental conditions. Architecture simply does not exist outside its context; every building is sited among unique, broad systems that constantly challenge our “pure” forms. As architecture has evolved, we’ve invented increasingly diverse methods to make our shelters smarter, sturdier, and more resistant. Screens are one such solution. Whether intended for rain, shading, or to transform spatial experience, these archetypal elements are being used prolifically throughout modern projects.
Screens are attractive because they can promote sustainability, vernacular building techniques, and tectonic expression. Today, screens are becoming extremely advanced, incorporating efficient technologies and material assemblies, as well as kinetic or operable movements. These trends are not tied to specific locales or regions; screens are being designed to shade towers in Abu Dhabi, redefine envelopes in Kuala Lumpur, and clad museum expansions in Atlanta. Durable screens can be made from numerous materials, including fabrics, timber, metal, and even glass. When thoughtfully crafted and organized, they transform architecture’s haptic and formal nature. Looking at their design application in art and cultural buildings, we’ve rounded up an exciting mix of sophisticated screens for your perusing pleasure.
Malopolska Garden of Arts by Ingarden & Ewy Architekci, Krakow, Poland
The dynamic screen used in the Malopolska Garden of Arts has two faces. On one hand, it provides an openwork roofing raised over the garden that defines theatric space, and on the other, it introduces a new spatial order to the ruined buildings and old backyards. Housing both the Juliusz Słowacki Theatre and the Malopolska Voivodeship Library, the project establishes a new identity for the arts scene in Krakow.
© Studio 804, Inc.
© Studio 804, Inc.
The Forum at Marvin Hall by Studio 804, Lawrence, Kan., United States
The first addition to the University of Kansas’ School of Architecture since 1907, The Forum was actually designed and built by the school’s own students and faculty. Providing an auditorium space and central common area, the project emerged through an unprecedented decision to construct on state property. An integrated wood screen runs along the perimeter of the project’s envelope.
© Daria Scagliola/Stijn Brakkee
Cultural Centre Rozet by Neutelings Riedijk Architects, Arnhem, Netherlands
Cultural Centre Rozet is a project combining a library, art and heritage center, as well as a community college. Set in the post-war city of Arnhem, the project lies along the city’s central route in the Rijnboog quarter. Created to express public identity, the screen façade functions as both a fixed element and a mix of textured reliefs and rosettes.
Dialogue in the Dark Bukchon by WISE Architecture, Seoul, South Korea
Created for the worldwide exhibition, “Dialogue in the Dark,” this project was designed for visitors to experience complete darkness. Sited in a traditional Hanok village, an exterior stairway leads to a floating dark room. The traditional Korean ‘Bal’ screen acts as a blind while controlling visual connection between exterior and interior.
School of Art & Design at New York State College of Ceramics by Ikon.5 Architects, Alfred, N.Y., United States
This “large ceramic vessel” was designed to hold art and light. The Pavilion’s un-glazed, terra-cotta tube façade acts as a solar and rain screen. The ceramic material recalls students’ work and the objects housed inside, while the staggered pattern was inspired by pottery racks.
Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center by Kengo Kuma & Associates, Asakusa, Taito, Japan
An article about screen façades would not be complete without mentioning Kengo Kuma. An architect constantly examining tectonic façades and new assemblies for traditional materials, Kuma’s Asakusa Center materializes years of thoughtful research. Crafted from glass and vertical wood louvres, the building’s interiors are bright, airy, and filled with natural light.
© ELSA URQUIJO ARCHITECTS
Place de la Breche by studioMilou, Niort, France
The Place de la Breche project involved the revitalization of a city square and commercial center. Programs like a multiplex cinema, underground garage, café, and exhibition space made up the plan. A clean, ordered screen was used while not interrupting the peaceful, tranquil nature of the site.
Emerson College Los Angeles by Morphosis Architects, Los Angeles, Calif., United States
Morphosis’s Emerson College campus in L.A. showcases an innovative approach to contemporary screen façade design. Coupling high-tech living quarters and classrooms, the project connects two ten-story towers through a helipad and multipurpose space. The weather-sensitive screen louvers respond to environmental conditions to regulate light and temperature.
