positioned the building at the nexus of new
walking paths, linking a main boulevard with
surrounding residential lanes, helping to
draw people to the site.
The building’s overall form further helps
attract residents. The studio reinterpreted
classical principles — a carefully
proportioned colonnade in front of a calm
reflecting pool, a monolithic materiality, and
a solid, reassuring appearance — with its
signature, contemporary sophistication. A
number of the columns are off kilter to foster
moments of encounter; the materiality is a
glinting stainless steel; and the inner mass is
sub-divided into three sinuous, Aalto-esque
volumes, each of which conceals the centre’s
Multipurpose room, dance recital space
and main gallery area. These spaces again
balance functionality and flair. Each interior
is understated to let the art shine, and was
designed to optimize acoustics and lighting.