How can water influence the rhythm of Architecture?

Water is referred to as the blood of the earth, the liquid that runs through the veins of the earth. At times rain falls calmly to the earth's surface bringing life to plants, animals, and people. At other times, rain falls in a fury and causes the rivers to swell and flood, destroying life. In the film Rivers and Tides Working with Time Andy Goldsworthy states, "the thing that brings it to life is also the thing that causes its death." The essential element of water is needed by all living things. Vitruvius stated that "without the influence of moisture living creatures will be bloodless and having the liquid element sucked out of them will wither away." Every living thing includes a percentage of water, without which life would not be possible. However, when the vengeance of a storm comes water can become an unforgiving force. A force more powerful than life can sustain. Water can provide life for years, nourishing our bodies, souls, and minds, but it can take life away in an instance and leave nothing but destruction and death behind.

The architecture of the proposed building has be inspired by the ebb and flow of the Potomac River. By using the tide and seasonal changes of the river the architecture will reacted and embraced this element of the Alexandria, Virginia.

The project is for the Alexandria Sculpture Museum. This Museum will provide a forum for the public to be able to enjoy the dynamics of a museum in the downtown area as well as the public interaction between the city, the land, and the river.