MACC

MACC

The concept is layered into three distinct areas. First, the pre-existing elements are subtly treated for the incorporation of the Art Gallery. Secondly, there are two realms to be designed and incorporated – the open public space to the front of the building and the private staff areas at the rear of the property. Last, two functional boxes of diverse art exhibition areas consist of the main gallery spaces within the project.

This configuration distinguishes the exhibition spaces as unique and separate from the rest of the interior. They are composed such that each exhibition ‘box’ is visible from the exterior through th the existing building’s large facade fenestration. These boxes not only relate to the public space, but they are also connected to the rear private spaces – such as pre-exhibit work spaces, archive and storage rooms – making them very versatile and flexible.

The exhibition boxes are constructed in such a way that they are surrounded by a hollow wall that encases utility wardrobes and movable panels which glide along railings in both the floor and ceiling, allowing the spaces to be reconfigured as necessary for specific exhibitions. This robust box perimeter introduces a system that allows for indirect sunlight and, with a double-mirrored surface, an image of the exterior to penetrate the gallery spaces. This system can collapse when required for temporary dark exhibitions increasing the overall flexibility and value of the exhibition spaces.