Speaking Through Architecture: The Sound and the Structure of the Story Made Material

Abstract

This is an architectural thesis for the creation of stories. Through the collection of memories and ideas, stories are discovered and then assembled to form objects of intent. The proposed design is also a hybrid - a hybrid of spaces, both formal and mundane, structured to form a unique body that is an extension of city from which it originated.

The architectural project, located at the Dupont Circle North Metro exit in Washington, DC, houses performance, teaching and office space for the Speakeasy DC organization. The collection of spaces delineated in this design was inspired by characteristics of storytelling, structure and sound, and by the specific nature of the site. These spaces were then assembled to create a places of discovery (in markets and offices), reflection (in libraries and workrooms), and performance (in auditoriums and cafes).