Inside | Out

Abstract

In architecture, the building envelope is typically a single layer, creating spaces that can be occupied either inside or outside. What if the building envelope was considered more closely? What would happen if architecture instilled more flexibility for its users and obscured the boundary between inside and outside? This project explores how blending indoor and outdoor spaces can enhance the user experience by deconstructing typical boundaries, thus rewriting the dynamic of transitional spaces. Instead of stepping through a doorway, users can pass through a series of spaces created by exploding the building envelope, distorting the typical duality of interior versus exterior design. Inside Out challenges the typical building type and explores innovative design ideas for spaces in education. Adolescent education offers a unique investigation because most students at this age are constantly experiencing an influx of change through physical growth, social growth, and cognitive development. Given this transitional time for students, it is important that educational design fosters a learning environment that is enriching for all users. This project challenges the design of typical classroom environments, blending spaces both inside and out, creating a series of transitional spaces that offer a varied and unique school experience for everyone.