2016-2017 ACSA/AISC Steel Design Student Competition

This project is an exploration of place - making through surface and materials, and the dynamics of event and people over time. Events, festivals and people culminated into the cultural fabric of Florence, this project responds to that notion by deploying a series of temporary hotel units that sit upon a slightly less temporary ground, which is situated on a below grade infrastructure that allows these units and events to happen. This ensemble is kit of parts which is deployed across eight piazzas along the Arno river and Oltrarno, the hotel is constructed in a shish - kabob manner in which they can be multiplied, relocated or re-purposed. Each unit consist of a glass waterproofing membrane which is wrapped around a lightweight steel framework. Inhabitants have the option to expand their units to provide a balcony for themselves or a canopy for the locals. This is in efforts to intensify public space and circulate information of local artisan shops crafts, resistant and cultural centers.

Hotels can be considered both a self-contained world, an escape from the pressures of tourism and new experiences, and on the other hand, an extension of the town square, a public living room. It is the intention for every room to be unique and memorable. Each room should take advantage of its special location in the context, relationship to specific vistas, daylight, summer breeze, site amenities, unique architectural attributes, ect. Boutique-ness implies creating character rich settings, individualized either by setting, experience or theme.