Fourteen Columns

Abstract

The thesis inquiry is a study of the interrelations between character, emotion and rationality in architecture. The primary modes of representation are digital still photography and hand drawing. To best illuminate these issues the work of the eye and hand of the architect play a vital role. Pastel, pencil and charcoal are the preferred media for the works on paper. Programmatically the building is a boathouse for eight-men crew shells.

The boathouse is embedded into an ideal hillside, with one curved side angled slightly to the water and the landscape beyond. Together with a generous curved roof running the length of the boathouse they provide a covered architectural prow and dry sanctuary below for the storage of the crew shells. From the prow above one has an expansive overlook on the water and the varied activities upon it.

In the thesis project water is not seen as a substance, but rather as a material with a capacity to influence the character of the interior space. For example in the lower level of the boathouse there are small windows adjacent to an artificial water basin. Filtered sunlight passes through the water collected in the basin and then through the small windows. This condition allows a subtle colored light to pervade the lower space.

Another important aspect of this building is a consideration of the twenty-four hour rhythm of day and night. For much of the rowing community, mornings and afternoons are when races or practice activities occur. However the building must be able to show itself when the sun is arriving and departing. In the morning the boathouse and its interior act as an invitation to the rising sun. At night the building provides light to gently illuminate the darkening surroundings at dusk â similar to a lighthouse resting on its side for shells to navigate towards.