BUILDING THE EMPTINESS


AIMS

This workshop is based on the belief that emptiness plays an essential role in all gestures and actions. It aims to explore how emptiness interacts with both constructed and natural spaces. The goal is to design a space for pilgrims of Santiago de Compostela in A Guarda, Spain, with a focus on using emptiness as a fundamental design strategy to shape the experience and understanding of the place and the pilgrim.
METHOD
The Students will work around the possibility of creating a space and its perception and imagining the place to built. Will select a location and develop a program for a space accommodating four pilgrims, including areas for reflection, interaction, sleeping, cleaning, and eating. This stage involves reflecting on the pilgrim experience and the role of emptiness in architecture.
TECHNIQUE
During the workshop, participants will explore techniques in spatial analysis, conceptual modelling, creation of new architectural narratives, development of visual documentation, and project presentation to apply the concept of emptiness in architecture. The final exercise involves creating a conceptual architectural model and presenting the project and process on A3 sheets, including floor plans, sections, elevations, references, a brief descriptive summary, and a poetic name for the space.
STRENGTHS
In this workshop, emptiness is not seen as a void or absence but as an active, generative force. Inspired by the sculptures of Eduardo Chillida and Jorge Oteiza, where emptiness plays a central role, participants will explore how emptiness can be used as a tool for experimentation in architecture, enhancing both the physical and spiritual qualities of a space.