lock 3 artlab
spring 2018
Kent CAED | 2B Design Studio
prof. Bill Lucak
akron, ohio
program: maker space | art studio + galleries
studio _ Lock 3 artlab is a proposed mixed-use maker space and exhibition center located in downtown Akron, Ohio. With an emphasis on becoming a hub for local artists to create and exhibit their work. The goal was to create a center where the artwork is both created and shown, giving a stage to budding artists who otherwise might not have an outlet for showing their work. The site previously consisted of underutilized green space situated between the historic 1929 Akron Civic Theater and Lock 3 park. In the summer months, the park features outdoor concerts on its large stage in addition to other festivals and events. Although meant to be flexible the program for the maker space calls for a mixed-use studio space, metal-working lab, and a glass studio all with attached storage.
project _ the form was conceived as two bars set atop a folded plane mimicking the slope of surround terrain. Each bar at the end is bent slightly symbolically directing the views from the building towards its two other "culturally" significant neighbors [ the civic theater + lock 3 stage ]. The main entrance is bisected by an axis leading through the lower block, wherein is located the art studios and maker spaces, in addition to the mechanical and shipping spaces. On the ground floor facing the parkside are the local artist's gallery and lecture room, used for presentations or overflow exhibition space. Across the main hall are the administrative offices, restrooms, and freight elevator. On the topmost floor is located the traveling exhibition hall and it's attached outdoor sculpture garden + observation deck. The entire east wall of the gallery is glazed to allow views out to the city and to allow views from the street in; rendering the top floor as a psuedo-billboard.
