Cenotaph: An Introspection
2017
Design | Architecture
2A Desgin Studio: Dereck Revington | Skills used: Maxwell, Rhino, Photoshop, Model Making
The vast atmospheric volume is a memorial space to those who have lost themselves. A space in which the experience is unique to the individual, as it is a catalyst for introspective interaction. A solid monument of mass confronts one as they approach the Cenotaph, before being encompassed by the light contained within. As one passes through the space, the vertical fins that fall around the walk way, begin to expand and slowly reveal the encapsulating space. The bright void is revealed as the walls peel from one’s vision, and exposes an encapsulating series of mirrors. Standing on a transparent floor just below the bisection of the sphere, reflecting images and light from all angles inside the immersive sphere disorientates and overwhelms the senses. An oculus allows for viewing of the sky, and the suns light to illuminate the space. While approaching the centre of the volume, one begins to digest the infinitesimal echoing of reflections and becomes aware of themselves both as an individual and in context of their surroundings. This completely encapsulating space enlightens and elevates the individual in a sort of religious experience.
The Cenotaph allow visitors to reflect consciously on their physical existence and their own consciousness in a vacuum.
The spherical void is carved from solid vertical fins that extend downwards creating a network of grand tunnels. The long vertical halls, with suspended lights hanging to create and contrasting condensed passage way to guide from transit entrance ways, elevators, stairs, and other access points to navigate within the metropolis. A secondary path cuts through the massive walls creating a passage way along the other axis. Receding circular cuts in the walls carve out a void that periodically open the compressive halls. As one approaches the underbelly of the Cenotaph, the vertical walls once again pull away, creating a void directly underneath the sphere looming over the space. The portion of the Cenotaph that dips into the network is constructed of one-way mirror panels between the fins, allowing for the visitors beneath a view inside the glowing orb. The form lights the open space beneath and gives a different view and relationship into the monument.
