Dissolved

Syracuse University - Studio Professor Maya Alam 2016

The Pora project in Berlin, Germany is a 3-mile long building that underwent renovations to transform sections into a beach resort and a youth hostel, while preserving the abandoned state of the remaining structure. My design approach aimed to create a harmonious balance between the contrasting elements by integrating new designs inspired by the building’s historical ruins. By intentionally dissolving the original form, the building gained new significance and broke away from its initial ridged structured intent. The manipulated façade showcased an organized chaos, playing with scale and crystal-like formations that mirrored the surrounding rock formations. This transformation allowed the structure to blend into the landscape, creating a symbiotic relationship between the land and the building, breathing new life and meaning into both. As well and allowing for the program of rock climbing in its various forms and difficulty to encourage people to visit and interact with the site and the history behind it in a fun and dynamic way.