syncopated promenade, 2013
Syncopated Promenade is architecture moving with a private beat, a unique pattern weaving through the harmony of Savannah’s historic district. The formation of a School of Culinary Arts for SCAD University, an institute renowned for innovation and creative design presented a unique opportunity. Presenting an initial uniform façade, the building slides away at unexpected moments, creates sharp corners, opens to the sky and cityscape, and curves around luxurious cantilevered gardens.
Savannah is a city comprised of the best of Georgian tradition and local flare. Many of the buildings within the historic district reflect the architectural style of Southern Colonialism. With strict building codes within the district to maintain the charm and presence the ‘Hostess City’ has worked hard to preserve since before the Civil War, the challenge becomes designing both a contemporary building and a structure to blend with the distinct urban fabric of the city.
The initial design creates a subjective view of the city of Savannah, drawing out key points, distilling the quintessential essence of Savannah: the Talmadge Bridge, the Savannah River, and Forsyth Park. A triangulation of the sites creates the building form. Manipulation of the mass continues by applying the city’s orthogonal grid and curving irregularities. Vertical circulation is accomplished through a core set of elevators and stairs and also acts as a pivot for the transformational rotation of the building.
urban hybrid cuisine & school of culinary arts
PROFESSOR MOHAMMED EL NAHAS
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STUDIO 4
ARCH 404 FALL
