Franklin Institute of art
Corner of Broad St. and McDowell St. in West Columbus, OH
This project reimagines the vocational school as a space that supports both hands-on learning and community connection. With a size limit of 75,000 square feet, the design explores how form and function can work together to create a flexible, welcoming environment for students across different fields. Inspired by the simple act of bending a piece of paper, the architecture uses smooth, flowing forms to connect floors, walls, and ceilings. These "ribbons" of space create a continuous path through the building, guiding movement while encouraging interaction. The layout supports collaboration by placing classrooms, workshops, and shared spaces in close proximity, allowing students to learn and work side by side. The design focuses on openness-both in layout and appearance. Large windows and visual connections between spaces make the school feel transparent and inviting, showing the activity inside to those passing by. FIA is not just a place to learn trades; it's a place to share ideas, meet others, and feel inspired.
Instructor: Todd Gannon
Year: Autumn 2023
Course: Architectural Design III