universal space chris wilkinson

7/31/2019 Universal Space Chris Wilkinson

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Universal Space Chris Wilkinson

Wilkinson EyreArchitects

nevertheless provides an exciting backdrop for the new

Millennium- funded visitor attraction, which has steel as

its major theme. Our design places four separate pavilions

within the space, accessed by bridges and walkwayssuspended from the existing structure. Each pavilion in

different and takes one of the four elements as its theme:

earth, water, air and fire, which all play a part in the steel-

making process. The new interventions represent current

technology and provide a dramatic contrast to the

industrial archaeology of the recent past of heavy industry.

A long-span, single-volume space, with flexibility for

adaptation and change of use, the essence of the original

space has been retained for visitors to appreciate.

In summary, there is a general requirement for large flexible

spaces to house all kinds of activities, but there is also a

fundamental need within us to experience space of a

higher order. Perhaps we have a psychological desire to

see man-made space on the same scale as nature in order

to assert our place in the universe. Most of us are moved

by the views of a panoramic landscape, or by the sight of a

clear, starlit night sky, and we experience a similar feeling

when we enter one of the great Gothic cathedrals. Thescale and proportions of the space trigger the feeling of

spiritual reverence. Similarly, the parish church fulfils the

same requirements and the spires and roofs of these

important buildings, which stand out above the

surroundings, punctuate both rural and urban landscapes.

Fewer people go to church regularly nowadays but perhaps

other forms of building can provide this need for spiritually

uplifting space. Perhaps it is now the turn of the huge

regional shopping malls or the massive sports stadia inwhich case let us all try to raise the quality of their

architecture so that these buildings not only fulfil a practical

function but also a spiritual need.

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01 Magna, Rotherham UK 2001

Wilkinson Eyre Architects /

Photographer - John Coop

02 Explore at-Bristol, 1999 Wilkinson

Eyre Architects / Photographer -

Dennis Gilbert/View03 The Andromeda Galaxy

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universal space chris wilkinson

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