OFFICE DESIGN
SITE CONDITION
Location: 115 McCaul St, Toronto, ON M5T 1G1
Category: Interior design/ Renovation
Surrounding Condition: The site conditions reveal that the building's east and south sides are shaded by adjacent structures, limiting sunlight exposure. Therefore, optimizing the filtration of natural light becomes a crucial consideration for this location to ensure maximum illumination.
Original building condition: The original site condition of this building was designed as a teaching space, resulting in a notably dense layout. The intensity is particularly pronounced in the underground layer, where the challenge of obtaining natural light creates an environment that might feel enclosed and confined for students.
Client requirements: Tran Thien Khanh, a dedicated fashion designer operating on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, brings a unique background from the imperial capital Hue. Formerly a makeup artist, Khanh is acclaimed for preserving the formal dignity and spirit of times in royal attire Ao Dai, evident in his establishment of Ao Dai Canada. In addition to his commitment to protecting Vietnamese culture and raising awareness about social issues, Khanh has a specific vision for the space he seeks – a venue capable of hosting temporary dress exhibitions. With a small team, he aims to design and craft dresses in this space, transforming it into a dynamic center for cultural expression and artisanal creativity.
CONCEPT MODEL
DESIGN DIRECTION
Statement of intent: An interactive and social environment welcoming the community to experience Vietnamese culture, it will represent and preserve the traditional heritage of the arts.
Concept of renovation: The renovation concept aims to transform the space into a versatile environment with dual functionality. By strategically cutting the slab, we prioritize maximizing natural sunlight filtration into the interior. This not only enhances the overall ambiance but also creates an inviting atmosphere for both exhibition and workspaces. The introduction of changeable sliding curtains serves a dual purpose, transforming the entire space into a vast "exhibition wall" when desired, while also providing the flexibility to alter the character of the space, toggling between private and public configurations. This concept envisions a dynamic and adaptive setting that seamlessly accommodates various functions and contributes to a vibrant and adaptable atmosphere.
