Holocaust and Human Rights Center Competition spring '04

The manifestation of any kind of discrimination is the fabrication and fortification of boundaries. This project explores this idea of boundaries by twisting two separate paths together in an effort to intertwine the explorers of each in experiential ways. The boundaries between these paths become pronounced and the users on each path are keenly aware of those on the opposite route, transforming the boundary into a connection.

The interior path twists around a sunken courtyard offering many different views to the activity within it. The exterior path cuts through the courtyard finding both public and private resting places. These two paths cross only during exhibition/reception times when a hidden door slides open to link the reception space with the courtyard.

It is an architecture where the occupants are both the observers and the observed. The interlocking boundaries provide a platform to explore and celebrate our differences and diversities through changing points of view.