Natural light vs Artificial light

Kahn explored bringing light into interiors in the most imaginative ways throughout his career. (M.Saleh Uddin). Kahn believed that light was not a just a functional aspect of architecture but that it also has a spiritual quality in order to create a sense of wonder for occupants of the buildings.

Kahn had used natural light to create dramatic effects, this technique was used in several of his buildings. He used skylights clerestory windows which allowed the natural light to enter his buildings allowing it to create a sense of spaciousness and openness. He was also well known for using light wells, which is an architectural feature that allows the natural light from outdoors to reach deep and dark interiors.

in addition to natural light, Kahn used artificial light. He would often conceal light sources behind walls or ceilings in order to diffuse the glow that would emerge from the walls of the building. Again he does this because he believes that light should be able to create a sense on drama and mystery and doing this, helps him to achieve that.

Overall, one of Kahn's key component for his architectural style was light. By being able to manipulate the way light enters and is distributed into his buildings, he is able to create spaces that are both functional and meaningful

Artist Statement: Bowl Rotation

Bowl Rotation is design to be a circular table. The use of paper mache was used intentionally portraying concrete depicting his use of materiality. The ‘x’ inside the table is made of wood in reference to his work done at the Phillips Exeter Academy Library (image below). In this project, Kahns recommendation was accepted in November 1965 as the committee was admired by Kahns

“sympathetic use of brick and his concern for natural light” (the Journal of the American Institute of architects, 2015)

Design Process: Kahngle Light

Materials:

- white cardboard

- Paper

- Glue stick

- Cutting board

- Stanley knife

- Super glue

- Light source

Use the white cardboard to cut out what is needed to for form a rectangular prism

With the top side of the prism, make sure to leave a hole in the middle in order for the light to shine through For the cone-like shape, you would need to cut out square shape of paper and roll into a shape of a cone making sure to a space at the top of of your cone and cut off excess paper in order to make it flat underneath

Once done, glue together your pieces and shine a light through the top