Down Fall

• YEAR
  2017

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• DESCRIPTION
  Graduate Research Project

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• STUDIO INSTRUCTOR
  Ang Li

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• CATEGORIES
  Architecture
  Graphic Design

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Down Fall is an architectural event series, a critical reimagining of the demolition process filtered through the lens of cultural interaction. A building slated for unceremonious demolition is instead tactically deconstructed in phases through a series of purposeful, sculptural cuts which open up new programmatic opportunities. In between deconstruction phases the building transforms to host a variety of new uses: a town hall, an art gallery, a performance venue, an ice rink, and finally a community garden.

The staggered nature of the new deconstruction process leads to more thoughtful material cataloging and, as a result, filters salvaged materials to other construction projects in the area. The project uses the intentional nature of the deconstruction process to invite the public into the building, to physically occupy the space with a focus on community engagement. Down Fall turns the routine death of an ordinary building into a celebration of its life, and a transformation of what deconstruction can mean for a community.

The research basis for Down Fall was published in Alternate Endings. The ideas driving Down Fall were expanded upon in Assembly.