The Epitome of Architecture
The Gio Ponti Exhibition Center stands as a commemorative structure dedicated to the master architect, courtesy of the "Ce Spazio per Tutti" (Everyone’s Space) initiative. Anchored at the Bovisa campus of the Polytechnic University of Milan, this endeavor seeks to engage Milan's residents in exploring architectural design and the essence of the environment. Through a series of small-scale activities conducted in public spaces across Milan, the initiative invites people to delve into architectural intricacies and gain a deeper understanding of the environment.
By integrating these activities into the daily fabric of public life, the project aims to kindle and preserve people's memories and interests in architecture and environmental design. This design not only pays homage to the architectural legacy of Gio Ponti but also serves as a conduit for disseminating fundamental concepts of architecture and environmental design to a broader audience.
I collaborated with Christina Pollus as the installation and spacing designer for the Creative Design Competition at the Polytechnic University of Milan in 2018. Our collective efforts resulted in winning the 2nd award in the competition.
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Space Design
In my role as the designer of the main exhibition space, considering the design three-dimensionally, there are three primary user flows that guide visitors through the space and facilitate interactions at key nodes.
The main flow is situated in the center of the hall, connected by a series of interactive lanterns, showing as . These lanterns provide a semi-private space for users to interact and learn more about architecture and Gio Ponti. Additionally, there are two secondary user flows located at the sides of the hall, guided by interactive installations from different angles, showing as .
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Design Strategy
Space Delination
Internal space is defined by arch way imbeded with exchange glass.
Exhibition 1
Epitome of architecture projects by Gio Ponti.
Internal Circulation
May flows in the space guide users walking through all installtions.
Exhibition 2
Interactive Installation - Indoor lantern.
Arch Door
As the main element to define space and circulation.
Exchange Glass Off
Provide flexible circulation on-site for more in-person interactions and communication for visitors.
Linear Circulation
Three main flows encourage visitors to walk through interactive installations with different themes separately.
Exchange Glass On
The indoor light gets darker and turns to matte when the exchange galss is on to create for specific events with more privacy.
Epitome of Architcature
This installation, representing the epitome of architecture, seeks to create an interactive physical model showcasing all projects by Gio Ponti.
Visitors can peer through the installation from different perspectives to view interview videos detailing Gio Ponti's design processes.
The structure of showcase
Indoor Lantern
The Indoor Lantern is an interactive projector designed to offer a secluded space for a small group of users. It enables them to explore Gio Ponti's designs, interviews, and design drafts, fostering a deeper understanding of the architectural impact on our living environment.
Users can engage with the experience by tapping the curved screen to choose content, facilitating sharing with others in the vicinity.
projector: projecting the videos and interviews of Gio Ponti's design projects.
Lantern cap for electrical devices installation.
Curved screen for user to interact with.
PVC coating stays outside of the curved screen.
Initial ideas on draft
Visualized models with graphic pattern designed by Gio Ponti
These interactive installations have the potential to be strategically placed in prominent public spaces, such as Milan Central Station, the Design Museum of Milan, and public parks. By doing so, they serve as accessible touchpoints that effortlessly introduce people to the world of architectural design, fostering easy and instinctive engagement with the subject matter. The aim is to make architectural design more approachable and seamlessly integrated into people's daily surroundings.
