Between the Gap

Abstract

The reveal is an important architectural element. In many buildings, reveals define transitions between dissimilar materials, textures, finishes or planes. A reveal can also be thought of as a gap. Webster's dictionary defines a gap as "an opening made by breaking or parting." Often the word "gap" is associated with a deficiency or failure, but a gap similar to a reveal, can be intentional and essential to the success of a building. The visually impaired experience a "gap" with the sight-seeing public. They cannot see the spaces architecture creates and are forced to rely on other auditory and tactile clues to gain an understanding of the space they occupy including their orientation within it. This thesis explores the idea of a gap and attempts to bridge the "gap."