Modulated Privacy

With Robert Venturi’s writings concerning flexibility as a starting point, I developed a modular building system focusing on the possibility of physically similar spaces to function differently – both perceptually and programmatically. The ‘chapel module’ of the project derives its form from the footprint of the existing structure on the site and a 3 x 2 grid division. The building system allows for opaque or transparent walls to be inserted into each face, with their placement and alignment determined by the privacy level of each unit. Communal spaces experience open views through the width of the structure onto Bloom Walk, semi-private spaces have partial views of the site’s immediate context, while private spaces provide views of the sky. The arrangement and groupings of modules with similar privacy levels informs the placement of program within the overall structure. While the module was developed and refined to fit this site on campus, it’s inherent systematic flexibility and modularity has the potential to create interesting spaces to meet programmatic needs and fulfill the potential for varied housing projects in other locations.