Ted Ngai
Submission 0155
Foldscape: A New Face on the Ground
The ultimate goal of this proposal is to register the ground plane as the
“New Façade”. Circumventing the strict regulations of the
South End Landmarks Commission Standards and Criteria and re-establishing
Boston Center for the Arts’ brand as young / innovative are the two
primary goals of this proposal. Since it is quite impossible to obstruct the
existing façade, the design proposes to create a BCA Signage on the
ground to mark the complex’s identity. This sign will also serve as
general lighting for the plaza at night, exaggerating the effects of the image.
The new plaza takes shape according to the 20’ egress guideline that
results in a triangular platform. This gesture is symbolic of considering
pedestrian activities and congregation are of the highest importance. This
triangular platform is then geometrically divided into four zones which are
defined by BCA’s four core focus: performance, visual arts, community,
and youth. The zoned plates then fold to enhance the visibility of the signage
and establish different hierarchies for the different uses they anticipate.
Although this proposal puts all of its effort in the front entry and neglects
the other entry points and the Artists’ courtyard, we believe that creativity
should be showcased and glorified rather than cherished but hidden.
